When diving around Ao Nang, Koh Phi Phi, and the surrounding islands, it’s hard not to fall in love with the graceful movements of sharks. These incredible creatures are a vital part of a healthy reef, and spotting one is always a highlight of any dive. At Fast Manta, we’re lucky to see several species regularly — all harmless and fascinating in their own way.
The Most Common Sharks in Our Area
1. Blacktip Reef Shark
Easily one of the most seen sharks around Phi Phi and Ao Nang Local Islands. They prefer shallow sandy areas and coral reefs, often gliding past snorkelers near the surface. They like peace and quite so usually snorkelers tend to encounter more sharks than divers because divers make more noise.
- Size: Up to 1.6 m
- Best places to spot: Bida Nok, Bida Nai, Koh Sii in Ao Nang
2. Leopard Shark (Zebra Shark)
A diver’s favorite! These gentle bottom-dwellers rest on the sand during the day and are beautifully patterned. Despite their name, they’re not dangerous — just curious and calm.
- Size: Up to 2.5 m
- Best places to spot: Bida Nok, Bida Nai and Hin Bida
3. Bamboo Shark
These small, shy sharks are nocturnal and often hide under coral ledges or rocks during the day. You’ll need a sharp eye and a good torch to find them!
- Size: Around 1 m
- Best places to spot: Sheltered reef areas and under coral blocks in Ao Nang Local Islands.
What to Do If You Encounter a Shark
- Stay calm — Sharks are not interested in humans; they’re just passing by.
- Keep your distance — Maintain at least 3–4 meters. Let them decide if they want to come closer.
- Avoid chasing or touching — This stresses the animal and can lead to defensive behaviour.
- Stay low and observe — If you’re taking photos, move slowly and stay level with the shark rather than above it.
- Respect their path — Always leave space for them to swim freely.
Seeing a shark is not a reason to fear — it’s a reason to celebrate. It means the reef is healthy and full of life.
How Divers Can Help Protect Sharks
At Fast Manta, we believe in responsible shark encounters. Our instructors teach divers how to move respectfully, understand shark behavior, and contribute to ocean protection. Every dive is a chance to learn — and to help keep these amazing species safe for future generations.
- Say no to shark products. Avoid souvenirs made from shark teeth or fins.
- Choose eco-conscious dive centers (like us!) that follow responsible diving practices.
- Report sightings. Shark identification programs help scientists monitor populations.
- Educate others. The more people understand sharks, the more likely they are to protect them.
PADI AWARE Shark Conservation Specialty Course
Join us on a mission to protect the ocean’s most magnificent and misunderstood creatures — sharks. The PADI AWARE Shark Conservation Specialty Course at Fast Manta is designed for anyone who wants to understand these incredible animals better and become an active voice for their protection.
Whether you’re fascinated by sharks, a bit nervous around them, or simply curious, this course will transform the way you see them.
During this course, you’ll:
- Discover the threats sharks face — from overfishing to habitat loss — and learn how divers can help turn the tide.
- Gain real knowledge to separate shark myths from facts and become a confident advocate for their conservation.
- Learn how sharks keep our reefs healthy and why protecting them is crucial for the entire marine ecosystem.
- Take meaningful action to protect sharks both locally and globally.
The course includes classroom-style discussions and dives at our local shark sites around Ao Nang and Koh Phi Phi, where you might encounter blacktip reef sharks or leopard sharks in their natural environment.
Fast Manta Joins the Shark Guardian Ambassador Program
At Fast Manta, our mission has always been bigger than diving — it’s about protecting the ocean and inspiring others to do the same. That’s why we’re thrilled to be part of the new Shark Guardian Ambassador Program, connecting dive centers that share the same values of responsibility, collaboration, and ocean conservation.
At Fast Manta, our mission has always been bigger than diving — it’s about protecting the ocean and inspiring others to do the same. That’s why we’re thrilled to be part of the new Shark Guardian Ambassador Program, connecting dive centers that share the same values of responsibility, collaboration, and ocean conservation.
As an Ambassador Dive Center, we’re proud to:
- Host Shark Guardian talks and outreach sessions for our guests and students, helping more people understand the importance of shark conservation.
- Encourage divers to share shark sightings through citizen science platforms, contributing valuable data to global research.
- Participate in conservation campaigns and awareness events, using our voice to protect marine life.
- Giving Back to Our Community
Through the Ambassador Program, Fast Manta continues its commitment to shaping what sustainable diving and ocean conservation look like at the local level — here in beautiful Ao Nang, Krabi.
Why Dive With Fast Manta?
At Fast Manta, we don’t just teach — we inspire. Our instructors are passionate ocean advocates who combine marine education with hands-on conservation diving. Every student learns how to dive responsibly, collect useful shark data, and make a lasting impact.
This course is perfect for:
- Certified divers who want to dive with purpose
- Ocean lovers seeking to contribute to conservation
- Photographers and explorers fascinated by sharks and marine life
📍 Join Us in Ao Nang
Our PADI AWARE Shark Conservation Specialty Course runs regularly in Ao Nang, Krabi, with stunning dive sites that offer the chance to see sharks in their natural, peaceful state.
Learn, dive, and protect — all in one unforgettable experience.
📅 Available year-round
🌊 Open to all certified divers (Open Water level and above)
📩 Contact us to join the next Shark Conservation Specialty Course with Fast Manta!
