Thailand boasts a rich naval history and some of the world’s most stunning underwater scenes. One of the iconic ships that symbolizes Thailand’s maritime legacy is the HTMS Kram (originally a USA Naval Ship USS LSM – 469). Transferred from the US Navy in 1962, it was a part of a number of landing crafts transferred around the time, HTMS Kutt is it’s sister ship of the same class.
Commissioned by the US Navy in 1945 it served during the latter parts of World War II in the Asia Pacific regions and war theatres.
In May 1962, the Landing Craft was transferred to the Royal Thai Navy. Originally it was commissioned as HTMS Khram (LSM-3), later redesignated as LSM-732.
Having served the Thai Navy from 1962 onwards it was decommissioned in 2002. A year later on 30th January 2003 it was sunk as an artificial reef just off the bay of Koh Phai at around 30 metres below the surface.
Having been decommissioned and prepared as an artificial reef, now over 20 years later the ship has become an important part of the eco-system and an incredible habitat for a vast variety of marine life and corals. With its high towers at around 16 metres deep it provides a feeding ground for Rabbit Fish that can be seen circling around the top of the tower, a nursery for Baby Barracuda that also shoal up and down the tower, swirling and spinning making a beautiful natural show.
Penetration is possible from Novice to expert divers with cargo holds to explore and smaller passages and cabins for those seeking a little extra “closeness” with tight corridors to squeeze through and explore. Due to the time it has been below the ocean soft sediment rests within the wreck and care must be taken when penetrating this wreck but when inside it’s a beautiful and challenging experience.
Meanwhile, around the wreck are beautiful dive sites which means Pattaya has become a premier destination for scuba diving in Pattaya, attracting divers from around the globe to explore its vibrant reefs and shipwrecks.
Discovering the Historic HTMS Kram
HTMS Kram was a significant vessel in the Royal Thai Navy, serving as a landing ship and logistical support vessel. Built during the Cold War era, it played an essential role in regional maritime operations, humanitarian missions, and military exercises.
The Role and Capabilities of HTMS Kram
This versatile vessel was designed to transport troops, equipment, and supplies, making it a critical part of Thailand’s amphibious operations. Its service history includes participating in disaster relief efforts and regional collaborations, embodying Thailand’s commitment to maritime security and resilience.
Legacy and Preservation
Although HTMS Kram has been decommissioned, its legacy remains alive in naval history and is now amaritime museum under the water for Scuba Divers to embrace and enjoy. It symbolises Thailand’s naval strength and maritime history, inspiring future generations of sailors, history enthusiasts and most importantly for us Scuba Divers.
The wreck is often the first wreck many people ever Scuba Dive on as a part of their PADI Advanced Open Water Diver Course in Pattaya. Being over 30 metres to the ocean floor from the deck of the wreck it’s Ideal for doing the required Deep Dive for the PADI Avanced Open Water Diver required dives. You even get the bonus of exploring the wreck once the required skills for the Deep Dive are complete.
Additionally, where the deep dive is done elsewhere HTMS Kram is a beautiful wreck to do the Wreck Dive on the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course here in Pattaya. You will find hard to see such a stunning vibrant wreck at such an early stage of your diving adventure than the Kram.
Experience the Underwater Wonder: Scuba Diving in Pattaya
While exploring Thailand’s maritime history is fascinating, the country also offers breathtaking scuba diving in Pattaya. Known for its close proximity to Bangkok, vibrant reefs, and diverse marine life, Pattaya is a top destination for diving adventures.
Why Choose Scuba Diving in Pattaya?
Pattaya’s varied dive sites cater to all skill levels—from beginners eager to discover underwater worlds to advanced divers exploring shipwrecks and reef systems. Its warm waters and abundant marine biodiversity make it an unforgettable diving experience.
Top Dive Sites Near Pattaya
- Koh Rin: Famous for spectacular underwater formations and marine encounters with barracudas, groupers, and occasional whale sharks.
- Koh Man Wichai: Ideal for day trips, with colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life suitable for all levels of Scuba Divers.
- Old Thai Navy Ships: Dive into history by exploring remnants of old naval ships, HTMS Kram, HTMS Kutt, HTMS Mattaphon all offering a unique combination of adventure and maritime heritage.
Dive with Copperband Scuba Academy in Pattaya
For those interested in scuba diving in Pattaya, Copperband Scuba Academy is a trusted name among diving schools and operators. Known for its professional instructors and comprehensive courses, Copperband Scuba Academy offers everything from beginner certifications to advanced diving programs. Their expert guides will ensure a safe, enjoyable experience exploring Pattaya’s underwater paradise.
Whether you’re a newbie or an experienced diver, Copperband Scuba Academy provides personalized coaching, high-quality equipment, and guided dives to make your diving experience in Pattaya unforgettable. They also organize dive trips to popular sites like Sail Rock and shipwrecks, giving you the best opportunities to explore Thailand’s underwater treasures.
Your Ultimate Guide to Scuba Diving in Pattaya
Pattaya is a year-round favorite for scuba diving enthusiasts, thanks to its excellent visibility, warm waters, and abundant marine life. With the help of reputable dive centers like Copperband Scuba Academy, you can explore the vibrant reefs, historic shipwrecks, and underwater landscapes that make this region so special.
Thailand’s rich naval history exemplified by vessels like HTMS Kram, combined with the incredible scuba diving in Pattaya, offers a perfect blend of culture and adventure. Whether you’re interested in exploring Thailand’s maritime past or diving into its stunning underwater ecosystems, Pattaya is an ideal destination. Make sure to dive with trusted operators like Copperband Scuba Academy to experience the best of what Pattaya’s waters have to offer.
