Thomas Reef

Thomas Reef is an offshore, roughly circular coral reef with steep vertical walls covered in colorful soft corals and gorgonian fans. Its standout feature is three large Thomas Arches swim-throughs that begin around 35 m and extend to nearly 90 m, creating a distinctive deep wall-and-arch diving experience and supporting rich marine life. Because of strong and often unpredictable currents the site is typically dived as a boat drift dive. Main profiles commonly start near 10 m and descend to about 25-30 m along the reef wall, though the arches reach much deeper. Visibility is usually very good, commonly 20 m or more, and water temperatures are generally warm, often in the mid-20s °C. Entry is by boat only; divers usually descend along one side and drift around the reef, sometimes nearly circumnavigating it. Major hazards are the strong currents and the depth of the arches; parts of the site exceed recreational limits and require technical experience and special gas mixtures, so it is best suited to experienced divers with good buoyancy control.