Reef-safe sunscreen and the rules that matter

Thailand banned sunscreens containing several common UV filters from marine national parks because of the damage they do to coral. It is enforced, and the fine is substantial.

Banned ingredients

Check the label before you travel. The prohibited filters in Thai marine parks include oxybenzone, octinoxate, 4-methylbenzylidene camphor and butylparaben. Most standard supermarket sunscreens contain at least one.

What to use instead

A mineral sunscreen using non-nano zinc oxide, or better, a long-sleeved rash vest. Cover-up beats chemistry: a rash vest protects your back and shoulders for a whole day without reapplication and puts nothing in the water.

• Rash vest or long-sleeve swim top — the single best thing you can bring
• Non-nano zinc oxide sunscreen for face, ears and the backs of your hands
• Apply on the boat 20 minutes before you get in, not at the water’s edge
• A hat and sunglasses for the transit legs

In the water

Never stand on coral — it is an animal and it dies where you put your foot. Do not touch, chase or corner marine life, and do not pick anything up, including shells. Keep your fins clear of the reef when you turn.

On the boat

Everything you bring aboard leaves with you. We do not use single-use plastic bottles on our boats and there is drinking water aboard to refill from.