Facts about HTMS Sattakut Koh Tao
Are you interested in seeing something “different” underwater?
If so, the HTMS Sattakut is the dive site for you. This is Koh Tao’s most beloved Wreck and a must do dive when visiting the Koh Tao.
Beloved Wreck
The dive site itself is located quite close to the island, and it takes a short boat ride of 15-20 minutes to get there from Mae Haad pier.
What is the HTMS Sattakut?
The “HTMS Sattakut,” is an ex Thai Navy boat, that was donated to Koh Tao in 2011, by the Royal Thai Navy and the Department of Marine and Costal Resources.
Before it was sunk, it was completely stripped and cleaned of any hazardous materials. The sinking itself was performed on June 18th 2011 by the Thai Navy.
How Deep is the HTMS Sattakut?
It now rests on a sandy bottom, south of White Rock and Hin Pee Wee dive sites. The stern sits at a depth of around 30metres, and shallows up at the bow of about 26 metres.
The bridge of the ship reaches up to 18 metres. This would be the shallowest part of the wreck. It is 49 metres in length, and 7 metres in width.
It was originally built in 1942 and is equipped with two cannon guns. One is located on the on the bow at around 20-21 metres, while the other one is positioned at the stern.
The guns are very popular points of interest for the wreck and they make for a great underwater video or photo opportunity.
Can I go Inside the HTMS Sattakut?
There are plenty of penetration points for Technical divers or divers holding the PADI Wreck Specialty.
You can start at the bow of the ship underneath the gun platform. These entry points will take you down a set of stairs and into the front cabin.
Wreck Specialty Course
You can continue forward until you reach the middle of the ship which is directly under the bridge.
At this point there is a corridor that leads directly to the stern of the ship. There are smaller deeper rooms; however, these may be outside the scope of recreational diver training.
Are there any Fish on the HTMS Sattakut?
While exploring the outside of the ship, you will notice many port holes on either side. Take a look inside and you will notice Giant Groupers, one spotted snappers and sweetlips inside.
If you make your way to the bottom of the ship you may notice a Jenkins Whip ray peeking out.
Plan your dive at HTMS Sattakut
Due to its depth you may need to shallow up in order to enjoy a longer dive. The best thing to do is finish the dive at Hin Pee Wee, which is only a few metres off the bow of the ship.
In good visibility you can actually see Hin Pee Wee from the ship itself. Most of the time there is a thermocline starting around 18 metres and visibility can range from 5-20 metres.
If you prefer to stay at the wreck for the entire dive you may want to add Enriched Air Nitrox into your dive plan or a Sidemount configuration.
Marine Life to see at HTMS Sattakut
Giant grouper, sweetlips, one spotted snapper, Butterfly fish, Jenkins Whip ray, spotted trout, sea snake.
There have been opportunities to also see the beloved WHALESHARK!
Our dive site rating
Due to its depth, the HTMS Sattakut is more suited towards Advanced Divers and fun diving.
It is also an excellent wreck to penetrate for training purposes or for fun dives, Enriched Air Nitrox and Good air consumption is recommended for this dive.