Introducing the Legend of John “Caveman” Gray: Frontier Man, Cave Explorer, and Environmentalist.
In the breathtaking Phang Nga Bay National Park, with its blue lagoons, marine caves, and majestic cliffs, lies a tale of exploration and preservation that cannot be told without the mention of John Gray. Born into a family of passionate environmentalists in Honolulu, Hawaii, John embarked on a lifelong journey of cave exploration and ecological admiration.
John’s odyssey began in the early 1980s when he established a cave exploration tour company in Hawaii. With his background in kayaking and caving and a deep love for nature instilled by his environmentally conscious parents, John was well-prepared for his foray into marine cave exploration. After venturing through the Philippines and Vietnam’s Halong Bay, he eventually found his way to Phuket, Thailand, where he became captivated by the country’s charm.
It was in Phang Nga Bay that John Gray left an indelible mark. Collaborating with local fishermen, John’s insatiable curiosity led him to discover hidden cave networks previously unknown to the world. Grateful for his warm reception from the local community, John established a cave exploration tour company, John Gray Sea Canoe, in Phuket. Not only did he provide unforgettable experiences for visitors, but he also uplifted the community by creating jobs and spearheading campaigns for environmental sustainability.
John Gray Sea Canoe has become synonymous with unparalleled sea kayak adventures in Phuket. The company’s focus on educating guests about rock formations, wildlife preservation, and sustainable practices sets them apart from the competition. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their use of organic produce, plastic waste reduction targets, and providing guests with garbage collection kits to help keep the islands clean.
Currently, John Gray Sea Canoe offers three extraordinary tour experiences. The “Hong by Starlight” tour immerses guests in the beauty of marine caves and lagoons, culminating in a seafood dinner and a traditional loy kratong ceremony. The “James Bond Island” tour includes visiting the iconic island featured in the famous 1974 James Bond film, offering a unique blend of natural wonders and cinematic nostalgia. The overnight tour provides an unparalleled experience aboard a traditional long-tail boat for those seeking solitude and a chance to encounter whale sharks.
Although John Gray, now 78, has stepped back from active participation, his legacy lives on through his hand-picked team and the exceptional experiences John Gray Sea Canoe continues to deliver. The company remains a testament to his vision, ensuring that visitors to Thailand will forever be able to uncover its hidden treasures.
Throughout his life, John Gray has received numerous awards and recognition for his environmental contributions. From being honoured as Junior Achievement California President of the Year to winning an Emmy for his documentary, “Molokai’s Forgotten Frontier,” John’s dedication to environmental education and ecotourism has left an enduring impact.
To reserve a tour or learn more about John Gray Sea Canoe, please visit their website here or contact them via email at reservations@johngray-seacanoe.com. You can also reach them through their Line ID: johngrayseacanoe or at (+66) 63-124-3404.
Written by: Supaporn Pholrach (Joom)
