Coral Conservation in Pattaya (Update)

Coral Conservation in Pattaya – Seafari & Oceanquest's Ongoing Mission

Coral reefs in Pattaya and the surrounding Coral Islands like Koh Larn and Koh Phai are a vibrant draw for divers — but they’re in danger. Climate change, pollution, overfishing, and unregulated tourism have led to dramatic coral reef loss in the Gulf of Thailand and around the world.

A Global Coral Crisis

According to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), we’ve already lost over 50% of coral reefs worldwide. By 2050, up to 90% of the planet’s coral reefs may disappear if no action is taken.

In Pattaya, this loss is driven by:

Urban growth and poor waste management
Industrial pollution and sediment runoff
Destructive fishing practices
Unregulated tourism and anchoring
Uninformed diving and snorkeling activities
Rising ocean temperatures

But there’s still hope — and Seafari Dive Center is proud to be part of the solution.

Coral Propagation in Pattaya with Oceanquest

In 2016, Seafari partnered with Oceanquest Global, an organization led by conservationist Todd Applegate, to take proactive steps toward restoring coral reefs around Pattaya’s islands.

Our team of instructors, divers, and volunteers took part in:

Coral research and reef monitoring
Manual coral propagation using natural rock bases
Community outreach and education

At Koh Phai, our initial coral propagation project using staghorn coral showed promising success. Early fragments adapted well to their new environments — and some have grown from just 5 cm to over 1 meter in diameter in just a few years.

Coral Conservation Changing Laws, New Responsibilities

In 2021, Thailand’s Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) implemented strict new laws to protect coral reefs. These laws prohibit anyone — including divers — from:

Touching or interfering with live or broken corals
Collecting or relocating coral fragments
Conducting unauthorized coral conservation activities

While this paused our original hands-on coral work, Seafari fully supports these regulations and is actively working with the DMCR to build new, approved coral restoration initiatives.

What’s Next for Coral Conservation in Pattaya?

We’re currently collaborating with the DMCR on future coral conservation projects that follow national regulations and international best practices.

The plan:

Volunteer divers assist in surveying dive sites for damaged coral fragments

Fragments are rescued (under DMCR guidelines) before they die

Corals are secured to specialized reef structures deployed on the seabed

Regular monitoring, maintenance, and measurement ensure long-term success

Want to Help? Learn & Dive Responsibly

While hands-on propagation is on hold, you can still:

Take part in reef monitoring dives
Learn about coral ecosystems and threats
Join our eco-diver programs

Become a better, more responsible diver through PADI Coral Conservation courses with environmental awareness at their core

The Ocean Needs You

Pattaya’s reefs can recover — but only if we act. With continued education, cooperation with marine authorities, and eco-conscious diving, we can protect what remains and help new coral communities thrive.

Whether you’re a seasoned diver or just starting your scuba journey, Come diving in Pattaya with Seafari Dive Center Pattaya to be part of something bigger.