PAK 1

The PAK 1 began as an LPG tanker in Japan before being bought by PAK Line Co., Ltd in Thailand. On August 25, 1996, she sank near the Cambodian border while en route to Vietnam, with most of her crew perishing. Discovered in 60m of water, she became a popular dive site due to her vertical position. Over time, she became a drifting hazard, prompting the Royal Thai Navy to sink her properly in 2002.

Now lying off Rayong in 42m of water, the PAK 1 is covered in nets and has poor visibility. Divers must use a shotline for safety, as currents and disorientation are risks. Though not frequently visited by dive operators, she offers intriguing exploration opportunities, especially for experienced wreck and decompression divers.

The wreck has several notable areas, including the damaged bow, cargo hold, superstructure, and stern. The Royal Thai Navy’s operation to secure the wreck was extensive, involving multiple failed attempts to flood the tanks and an eventual successful effort to detach and sink the remaining LPG tanks using cables. The mission, costing 2.2 million baht, was one of the Navy’s most challenging salvage operations. The PAK 1 remains a significant, albeit remote, diving site with historical and exploratory interest.