A cruise along the Thai riviera

Despite an oil spill off its coast earlier this year, Chumphon continues to be a popular spot among scuba divers, both experienced and beginners, hoping to see a giant shark whale at least once in their life. The famous diving sites of Koh Ran Ped and Koh Ran Kai have been recognised for the beauty of marine ecosystems, with a colourful carpet of coral reefs stretching as far as the eyes can see.

This seaside province joins Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan and Ranong as part of the Thailand Riviera initiative, which began in 2018 with the goal of promoting coastal tourist attractions on the western coastline.

However, it’s still seen as only a passage for holidaymakers to get…