A smiley porcupine fish named Steve from Koh Tao in Thailand has captured the heart of thousands and triggered a rise in searches for diving destinations across the globe
The world’s most famous fish has become a popular tourist attraction.
Steve is a smiley fish who has taken over TikTok, winning over 300,000 fans. This smiley porcupine fish from Koh Tao, Thailand, has captured hearts worldwide, with some people having even gone as far as getting Steve-inspired tattoos, with one diver commenting: “He’s my first tattoo — I can’t wait to see him again.”
Steve’s ever-present grin and friendly nature has made him an impressivley popular undersea influencer. Marine biologist @thomas_hunt’s recent viral TikTok showcased the fish’s friendly sides, racking up more than 40,000 likes. As a result, more divers are heading to Koh Tao, hoping to catch a glimpse of the legendary creature.
Koh Tao is already renowned as one of the best places in the world to learn to dive. The destination features affordable open-water courses and clear, warm waters. Now, with Steve becoming an unofficial mascot of the island’s dive sites, it’s no surprise that more visitors are adding a scuba trip to Thailand to their travel bucket list.
Holiday provider Travel Republic has found the ultimate scuba diving locations worldwide, with Indonesia coming out on top. With over 5,000 different types of marine life to see and 189 dive sites to explore, this Southeast Asian paradise is a diver’s dream. The warm waters average 29C, offering crystal-clear visibility and vibrant coral reefs.
The second best place to go scuba diving according to Travel Republic is Australia. With an average sea temperature of 25C and over 150 dive sites, it is home to some of the most extraordinary underwater landscapes. The Great Barrier Reef, one of the world’s natural wonders, boasts an incredible variety of marine species and colourful coral formations.
Brazil ranks third, offering an incredible array of marine life with nearly 5,000 species. The waters here remain warm at around 27 degrees, making for comfortable dives year-round. Brazil’s standout dive sites include Fernando de Noronha, known for its Caribbean-like waters, diverse marine biodiversity, and regular sightings of dolphins, sea turtles, and sharks.
When it comes to scuba diving, Travel Republic advises that preparation is key to ensure a safe and unforgettable experience. Before diving in, Travel Republic experts suggest checking the weather and sea conditions. Always review the forecast for both weather and sea conditions in advance. Calm waters and clear skies offer the best visibility for a memorable dive.
D9vers should research the moon phase before jumping in. This can affect tides, impacting visibility and diving conditions. Low tides often provide better access to dive sites, while high tides may offer more marine life encounters.
In addition, travellers should be sure to pack or hire a well-fitting wetsuit to stay warm underwater, as well as any extra accessories you may need, like gloves or hoods. Remember, a waterproof camera can come in handy to capture your aquatic adventures and document your diving experience.
