Marco Polo

The Andaman Sea, off the coast of Thailand, is a diver's paradise, renowned for its vibrant coral reefs, dramatic underwater topography, and an incredible diversity of marine life. From the iconic Similan Islands with their granite boulders and abundant fish schools to the nutrient-rich waters surrounding Richelieu Rock, offering chances to spot whale sharks and manta rays, this region promises unforgettable underwater experiences. Exploring these world-class dive sites, the MV Marco Polo provides an exclusive gateway, ensuring divers encounter the best of Thailand's aquatic wonders. Diving from the Marco Polo is designed for intimacy and flexibility. With a maximum of just 12 guests and only three dive groups, divers enjoy unparalleled personal attention and uncrowded sites. Each group consists of no more than four divers, ensuring a highly personalized experience with expert guides who know these waters inside out. The vessel is equipped with a dedicated, shaded dive deck featuring rinse hoses and individual gear storage, making preparation and post-dive routines effortless. Free Nitrox is available for certified divers, extending bottom times and enhancing safety. The itinerary is adaptable, allowing the crew to tailor dive plans to both weather conditions and the experience levels of guests, ensuring everyone, from novice to experienced, enjoys the optimal underwater journey. Life on board the Marco Polo strikes a perfect balance between comfort and adventure. Guests can retreat to one of the six air-conditioned double cabins, each boasting sea views and an en-suite bathroom, offering a private sanctuary after exhilarating dives. The cabins are thoughtfully designed to open onto the outer deck, inviting in the refreshing sea breeze. Social spaces include a spacious indoor salon with entertainment options for reviewing underwater footage or simply relaxing, and a charming outdoor dining area perfect for enjoying meals al fresco. The upper deck features a cozy sundeck, ideal for soaking up the sun between dives or marveling at the spectacular Andaman sunsets. Culinary delights are a highlight of any Marco Polo journey. Meals are a delectable fusion of international and authentic Thai cuisine, freshly prepared by an experienced Thai chef. Served buffet-style, the dining experience is a social affair, allowing guests to savor a variety of dishes. The vessel caters to various dietary needs, including vegetarian and vegan options, with prior notice. Throughout the day, guests can enjoy complimentary snacks, fresh fruits, tea, coffee, and water, ensuring they are well-fueled for their diving adventures. Alcoholic beverages, including beer and wine, are also available for purchase. The MV Marco Polo, built in 1998 and refurbished in 2021, is a purpose-built dive liveaboard measuring 23 meters in length. She comfortably accommodates 12 guests across 6 cabins, supported by a dedicated local and international crew, ensuring an almost 1:1 guest-to-crew ratio. The vessel is equipped with a 10,000-liter freshwater capacity and a dive tender for convenient access to dive sites. Her design prioritizes both diving functionality and guest comfort, making her an ideal platform for exploring the remote wonders of the Similan and Surin National Parks. The best season for diving in the Similan and Surin Islands is typically from November to April, when the seas are calm and visibility is excellent. Embarkation and disembarkation usually occur from Thap Lamu or Khao Lak, with hotel transfers included from local accommodations. The Marco Polo is perfectly suited for divers seeking a personalized, small-group experience, valuing excellent service, flexible itineraries, and a focus on maximizing underwater encounters in one of the world's most biodiverse marine environments.