Thailand’s new underwater camera ban is part of stricter diving regulations aimed at protecting fragile coral reefs.
Authorities say that inexperienced divers often become distracted while handling photography equipment, which can lead to poor buoyancy control and accidental damage to delicate coral formations.
The New Regulations
According to the newly announced rules, only divers who hold an Advanced Open Water certification or who have logged at least 40 deep dives are allowed to carry underwater cameras during deeper dives.
Officials say that the regulation targets a common problem in popular diving destinations: divers focusing on photography while unintentionally contacting coral reefs or disturbing marine life.
The goal of the new policy is to reduce human impact on some of Thailand’s most visited dive sites.
Restrictions for Snorkeling and Freediving
The regulations also apply to freediving and snorkeling activities.
Snorkelers are now required to remain in areas where the water depth is at least two meters above coral reefs, helping prevent accidental contact with fragile coral structures.
In addition, snorkelers must now wear flotation vests, unless they have completed a certified scuba diving or freediving training program.
Who Is Exempt?
The restrictions do not apply to individuals involved in officially approved activities, such as:
- academic research
- environmental education programs
- marine conservation projects
These activities are considered essential for studying and protecting marine ecosystems.
What This Means for Divers
For divers planning a trip to Thailand, the new rules mean that underwater photography during deeper dives may only be permitted if divers meet specific experience requirements.
Beginner divers may still be able to use cameras in shallower dives, but dive operators are expected to enforce the new regulations carefully in order to protect coral reefs.
Divers interested in underwater photography are encouraged to focus on improving buoyancy control and diving experience before bringing camera equipment on deeper dives.
Why It Matters
Thailand is one of the most popular diving destinations in the world, attracting thousands of divers each year.
By limiting underwater camera use among inexperienced divers, authorities hope to reduce unnecessary damage to coral reefs and encourage more responsible diving practices.
These measures are part of a broader effort to ensure the long-term protection of Thailand’s marine ecosystems.
Quick Facts
Country: Thailand
Regulation: Restrictions on underwater camera use
Requirement: Advanced Open Water or 40 logged deep dives
Applies To: Scuba diving, freediving and snorkeling
Goal: Protect coral reef ecosystems
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