The royal battleships Su Phairin and Han Hak Satru just took their final splash as they were submerged undersea to form refinement ambassadors. Rear Admiral Charasakiat Chaiphan, commander of the 2nd naval space, led the initiative, all a half of the underwater learning park challenge to take the plunge into underwater tourism.
The two decommissioned vessels found their new residence off the picturesque coast of Koh Tao, nestled within Surat Thani province. This enterprise was the result of a collaborative effort between the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) and the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources. Strange holds the promise of serving as a fascinating diving web site while actively contributing to the preservation and rejuvenation of marine and coastal ecosystems in the area.
It’s noteworthy that these battleships aren’t the pioneers in transitioning into aquatic sanctuaries round Koh Tao. Back in 2011, the RTN had generously bestowed the retired Sattakut battleship upon the island. This vessel discovered its final berth near the White Rock, on the western shores of Koh Tao, successfully birthing the inaugural Underwater Learning Park.
Since then, this site has flourished into an important diving vacation spot, teeming with a various array of marine life, featuring vibrant corals, graceful sea anemones, delicate sea followers, and enigmatic black corals. With the newest inclusion of Su Phairin and Han Hak Satru, anticipation brews for an inflow of each Thai and international divers, propelling the local underwater tourism industry in path of new heights.
Wichawut Jinto, the Governor of Surat Thani, eloquently expressed that even before this newest addition, Koh Tao had already secured its place as a premier tourist destination. It ranks among the top ten diving locales globally and stands as a pivotal underwater classroom in Asia. The recent developments are poised to further embellish its renown, creating fresh habitats for marine inhabitants and augmenting its allure as a hub for underwater tourism.
Su Phairin and Han Hak Satru, identified by their ship numbers 313 and 312 respectively, had gallantly plied the seas for over forty seven years earlier than they embarked on their ultimate voyage to the ocean floor yesterday, reported Sanook.
Follow more of The Thaiger’s latest tales on our new Facebook web page HERE..