Irrawaddy (pink) dolphins near Khanom

Summary

The shallow mainland coast opposite Koh Samui, around Khanom and Donsak, is one of the last refuges of the Irrawaddy dolphin in Thailand. Around 60 are estimated to remain locally. Watching them responsibly is possible on early-morning boat trips.

Details

The Irrawaddy dolphin (Orcaella brevirostris) is a rare coastal and river dolphin. In Thailand, one of its last strongholds is the shallow coast between Donsak (Surat Thani) and Khanom (Nakhon Si Thammarat) - directly across the water from Koh Samui. Adults often show a pinkish-grey skin tone, hence the local name 'loma si chompoo', pink dolphin. Local authorities have put the population in the area at around 60 animals. The dolphins are resident year round; the best viewing is early morning (about 7:30-9:00) and in the calmer months roughly February to August. They are shy, slow-surfacing animals, so expect brief fin and back sightings rather than jumps. Because the population is small and threatened (bycatch in fishing nets is their biggest danger), responsible viewing matters: good operators keep at least about 50 metres distance, cut or idle engines near the animals, limit viewing time and never feed them. Dolphins are sometimes even seen from the Donsak-Samui car ferries. The species is classed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.

Safety and ethics

Choose operators that keep distance (50 m+), cut engines near dolphins and never feed them; do not ask drivers to chase or surround the animals; report any injured or stranded dolphin to local marine authorities (DMCR).

Frequently asked questions

Are the pink dolphins really pink?

Adults often have a pinkish-grey tone, especially visible in sunlight, which is why they are called pink dolphins. They are Irrawaddy dolphins, a rare coastal species.

How many pink dolphins are left near Khanom?

Local authorities have estimated around 60 animals in the Khanom-Donsak area. It is one of the last groups in Thailand.

When is the best time to see them?

Early morning, about 7:30-9:00, and in calmer months roughly February to August. Sightings are never guaranteed.

Can I see them from Koh Samui?

They live off the mainland coast, but they are sometimes spotted from the Donsak-Samui ferry. Dedicated trips leave from Khanom/Laem Prathap or by speedboat from Samui.