Thailand has over 1,800 miles of coastline, and most of the country is just a short distance from the ocean. The sea provides sustenance, trade routes, and a setting for human transportation, making access to the ocean a vital part of a country’s culture and economy. It also makes Thailand one of the most desirable destinations for beach-goers, sun-seekers, scuba divers, and snorkelers.

Fishing makes up a large portion of Thailand’s economy, and docks around Phuket bustle each morning as commercial fishing boats bring in the latest catch. Crews on these fishing boats pull up a wide variety; catfish, carp, perch and even shark! Once at the docks, the haul is quickly sorted and sold.

In addition to a large assortment of fish, Thailand leads the world in exporting tiger prawns (tiger shrimp). However, this economic reliance on the sea has led to overfishing of some species.

Recent conservation efforts have led the Thai government to enact laws that promote growth among fish populations. One such law regulates size restrictions – ensuring that fish have a chance to spawn before they are caught. I sure hope the ocean isn’t low on shrimp, because I’m really enjoying Tom Yum Goong!

Fortunately, my seafaring adventures take me from dockside to the waves. I venture out onto the Andaman Sea for a closer look at the sea creatures of beneath the waters southern Thailand.

The snorkeling in Thailand is considered to be some of the best in the world. The waters of the Andaman Sea are crystal blue-green providing excellent visibility. I swim through a kaleidoscope of colors and patterns and above coral reefs, home to hundreds of species of bright fish and plants.

Did you catch all that? Go back to the beginning if you missed something.

Blog by Tati Amare, Jenny M. Buccos, Gabrielle Pasternak & Rachel Rudwall.
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