Giant Moray Eel at the Similan Islands

If you’re diving around the Similan Islands, keep an eye out for the impressive giant moray eel. These sleek, snake-like creatures are some of the largest morays in the ocean, often reaching up to three meters in length. They tend to hide out in rocky crevices or coral holes during the day, poking their heads out with mouths constantly opening and closing—not because they’re angry, but because they need to breathe.

Giant moray eels have a kind of fierce beauty. Their spotted, greenish-brown skin helps them blend in with the reef, and those sharp teeth are definitely memorable! Even though they look intimidating, they’re not aggressive unless provoked. Most divers can swim by safely and get a good look—just don’t try to touch one.

You might see cleaner shrimp hanging out inside a moray’s mouth, picking off parasites. It’s a weird but fascinating relationship that shows how connected life is underwater. If you're lucky, you might catch a giant moray swimming out in the open at night, hunting for fish, octopus, or crustaceans.

Diving in the Similan Islands is always a treat, and spotting a giant moray eel adds a little thrill to the experience. Have you seen one up close before?