The Sea Turtle Conservation Center of the Royal Thai Navy in Chonburi Province is a marine biology learning center dedicated to providing knowledge about the life cycle of sea turtles while fostering awareness and appreciation for the conservation of natural resources. It plays a crucial role in protecting sea turtles, which are now endangered. The center is open to students, researchers, and the general public throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy various activities such as watching educational videos, listening to guided talks by experts, exploring exhibitions, and observing adorable baby turtles in the nursery ponds. This hands-on experience helps visitors better understand the life cycle of sea turtles and recognize the importance of conservation efforts.

 

The center is divided into two main sections. The first section features an educational building that provides in-depth information about the life cycle of sea turtles. Here, visitors can watch short films lasting 7 and 12 minutes, offering insights into every stage of a turtle’s life, from hatching to adulthood. There is also an exhibition hall presenting detailed information about sea turtle nesting sites across Thailand, the unique characteristics of different sea turtle species, proper care practices, and current updates on the status and conservation of sea turtles in the country. This section combines scientific knowledge with real-world conservation issues, making it both informative and engaging.

 

The second section consists of nursery ponds housing sea turtles of various ages. These turtles come from the Navy’s conservation efforts, which involve teams patrolling 16 beaches across Khram Island, I Ra Island, and Chan Island. Their duties include monitoring nesting areas, preventing the illegal collection of turtle eggs, and protecting breeding grounds. When nests are found, the eggs are carefully collected and taken to designated incubation areas. Once the hatchlings emerge, they are moved to Khram Island for initial care and nurturing for about one month.

 

After this initial period, the young turtles are transported to the Sea Turtle Conservation Center in Sattahip. The transportation process uses large plastic containers measuring approximately 70 x 100 x 30 centimeters, lined with wet sand about 1 inch deep. Each container can hold around 100 baby turtles. Wet burlap sacks are used to cover the containers, maintaining proper temperature and humidity levels. The journey takes about 3-5 hours, usually aboard a supply boat, with great care taken to prevent exposure to direct sunlight or rough handling, as these could harm the turtles.

 

Upon arrival at the center, the turtles are placed directly into the nursery ponds and allowed to rest for about one hour before being fed. The diet for hatchlings aged 1-3 months consists of yellowtail fish meat, with the heads, skin, and bones removed, leaving only pure meat that is fed to the turtles without needing to be chopped into small pieces. Once the turtles reach 3-6 months of age and are strong and healthy, they are ready to be released back into the wild.

 

Releases take place on Khram Island or other islands with suitable ecosystems. The turtles are transported either by boat or plane to the release sites. At the beach, they are placed on the sand about 4-6 meters from the waterline, allowing them time to adapt before making their way into the ocean. This natural process helps them adjust to their environment before beginning life in the wild.

 

The center is more than just a nursery and hatchery—it is also an ecotourism destination perfect for those passionate about marine life and environmental conservation. Visitors not only gain knowledge but also develop a deeper appreciation for the balance of nature while enjoying an up-close encounter with baby turtles.

 

Getting to the Sea Turtle Conservation Center is convenient. It is located at Chuk Samet Beach within the Air and Coastal Defense Command in Sattahip District, about 7 kilometers from Sattahip town center. Take Highway 3126 towards Chuk Samet, and after passing the turnoff to Ban Samae San, the center will be on the right-hand side. Visitors must exchange their ID cards at the checkpoint before entering. For more information, call 0 3843 1477 or 0 384 38457 ext. 066-3809 or 066-6178. You can also contact the Navy Tourism Coordination Center in Sattahip at 0 3843 7112, 75096, or 74673 during office hours.

 

The Sea Turtle Conservation Center serves as a place where learning, conservation, and eco-friendly tourism come together. It is ideal for families, students, and nature lovers. Each visit not only provides a memorable experience but also plays a small yet meaningful role in helping preserve Thailand’s sea turtles for future generations.