The Best of Andaman (Asia Marina → Thap Lamu, 7D6N)

Gentle Giant · Thailand · 7D6N

Duration
7D6N
Embarkation
Asia Marina
Disembarkation
Thap Lamu
Dives
22 dives

About this route

Embark on a comprehensive 7-day diving expedition through the Andaman Sea, uniquely journeying from the southern waters near Phuket to the northern gems accessible from Khao Lak. This special itinerary is one of very few that covers both the northern and southern Andaman regions, completing approximately 22 dives. The adventure includes the world-famous Hin Daeng and Hin Muang with their vibrant soft corals and pelagic visitors, the iconic Similan Islands with their granite boulder seascapes, and the legendary Richelieu Rock, a hotspot for whale sharks. Divers should be comfortable with a variety of conditions, as the trip encounters everything from calm reefs to current-swept pinnacles. Transfers are typically included from the airport or local hotels.

Day-by-day plan

  1. Day 1: Embarkation in Asia Marina

    Asia Marina, Phuket

    Boarding takes place in the afternoon at Asia Marina in Phuket. After settling into your cabin, you'll receive a comprehensive boat and safety briefing. Enjoy a light dinner as the vessel departs, cruising overnight towards the southern dive sites.

    Good to know: Pick-up and transfer from the airport or local hotels | Boarding and welcome briefing | Dinner served onboard

  2. Day 2: South Andaman — Hin Daeng & Hin Muang

    Koh Lanta National Park, Southern Andaman Sea

    The first day of diving is at two of Thailand’s most dramatic sites: Hin Daeng (Red Rock) and Hin Muang (Purple Rock). These deep, isolated pinnacles are completely submerged and adorned with vibrant red and purple soft corals. The area is known for Thailand's deepest vertical wall and its reputation as a magnet for large pelagics cruising in from the open ocean.

    Dive sites: Hin Daeng, Hin Muang

    Good to know: Diving at offshore pinnacles known for pelagic action.

  3. Day 3: South Andaman — Koh Haa & Shark Point Marine Sanctuary

    Southern Andaman Sea

    Today's dives explore the stunning limestone karst archipelago of Koh Haa. The site features a beautiful central lagoon, underwater caverns, and swim-throughs with impressive visibility. The journey north continues towards the Shark Point marine sanctuary area, which includes sites like the King Cruiser Wreck and Anemone Reef, famous for their high density of fish and resident leopard sharks.

    Dive sites: Koh Haa, Shark Point, King Cruiser Wreck, Anemone Reef

    Good to know: Exploring caverns and reefs before moving towards wreck and sanctuary diving.

  4. Day 4: Similan Islands National Park

    Similan Islands

    Arrive in the world-renowned Similan Islands. Diving here offers incredible variety, from the gently sloping hard coral reefs and white sand bottoms on the eastern side to the dramatic underwater landscapes of the west. Huge granite boulders, tumbled together over millennia, create exciting swim-throughs, channels, and canyons to explore, with a rich diversity of reef fish and invertebrates.

    Dive sites: Anita's Reef, Elephant Head Rock, Donald Duck Bay, Deep Six, Three Trees

    Good to know: Full day diving amongst the granite boulders and coral reefs of the Similans.

  5. Day 5: Northern Pinnacles — Koh Bon & Koh Tachai

    North of Similan Islands

    The journey continues north to two celebrated dive sites. The day starts at Koh Bon, famed for its manta ray cleaning station where these graceful giants are frequently observed. The diving then moves to Koh Tachai, a submerged pinnacle known for stronger currents that attract large schools of barracuda, trevally, and batfish. The dramatic underwater topography is formed by massive granite boulders.

    Dive sites: Koh Bon, Koh Tachai Pinnacle

    Good to know: Pelagic-focused diving with potential for strong currents.

  6. Day 6: Richelieu Rock

    Surin National Park

    The final full day of diving is dedicated to Thailand's most famous dive site, Richelieu Rock. This isolated, horseshoe-shaped pinnacle is a true underwater wilderness, attracting an incredible density and diversity of marine life. From tiny harlequin shrimp and seahorses to vast schools of fish and visiting whale sharks, the rock is a highlight of any Andaman itinerary. After the dives, the boat begins its journey to the mainland.

    Dive sites: Richelieu Rock

    Good to know: World-class diving at a legendary pinnacle | Overnight cruise to Thap Lamu.

  7. Day 7: Disembarkation in Thap Lamu

    Thap Lamu, Khao Lak

    After a final breakfast on board, the boat docks at Thap Lamu Pier near Khao Lak. The crew will assist with your belongings before you disembark for your transfer to a local hotel or Phuket International Airport.

    Good to know: Last breakfast on board | Disembarkation | Transfer to hotel or airport.

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