There are several books on diving in Thailand and Phuket that we would like to recommend. Some of these you can buy in Phuket in any divestore or bookstore, others you can conveniently get at Amazon.

What to look for in a dive guide book?

I personally do not like dive guide books that do not include maps for each dive site listed. A text description is simply not enough.  So divesite maps are a must-have for me.

Honest or politically correct?

Too many writers feel like they are on a mission to improve reality. The diving is somehow always better for the writer. If one were to believe most guidebooks, there is nothing but pristine reefs and abundant marine life at every destination. Truth of the matter is, I, tourist, am paying for your guide book, so I expect you to be loyal to your customer (me) and give me the truth and nothing but the truth.   An honest assessment of diving in a particular area is hard to find!

What is available and recommended?

First, there is  a free diving guide available for download at DiveGuide Thailand.

Second, as far as diving in Phuket, the most popular book that you see all the dive guides carry is The Pocket Divesite, written by a team of young Thai divers. Find out more on their website

We will be adding to this list of books as we have time from diving!