Smiling Seahorse · Thailand · 8D/7N
Journey into the remote and pristine Mergui Archipelago, where unexplored dive sites promise a true expedition experience. This 8-day itinerary from Ranong, Thailand, delves into Myanmar's largely untouched waters, featuring dramatic granite boulder formations, thriving hard and soft coral reefs, and the chance for exciting pelagic encounters. Explore distinctive sites like Shark Cave and Western Rocky, known for their unique underwater topography and diverse marine life, including various reef fish, sharks, and rays. Expect healthy ecosystems and exceptional visibility in this secluded corner of Southeast Asia.
Ranong, Thailand / Kawthaung, Myanmar
After a midday meeting in Ranong for Thai immigration procedures, you will cross the border into Myanmar. In Kawthaung, officials will board the vessel to complete entry formalities before the boat sets sail into the Andaman Sea. The evening is for settling in as the journey to the first dive sites begins.
South Twin Island, Mergui Archipelago
The first day of diving is at South Twin Island, characterized by excellent visibility and a seascape of massive granite boulders. This site offers opportunities for both large animal sightings and searching for macro life such as frogfish and ghost pipefish. A night dive is planned to look for nocturnal creatures like pygmy squid and various crabs.
Dive sites: South Twin Island
Shark Cave, Mergui Archipelago
Today's dives focus on the area around Shark Cave, a site famous for its rich biodiversity and potential for nurse shark sightings inside the cave. The surrounding reefs are hotspots for critters like harlequin shrimp and seahorses. For the surface interval, there will be an opportunity to relax on a secluded, sandy beach.
Dive sites: Shark Cave
North Twin Island, Mergui Archipelago
The journey continues to North Twin, the northernmost point of the trip, which frequently offers the clearest water. The diving here is focused on open water pinnacles, providing the best chances to encounter large pelagics like manta rays, eagle rays, and whale sharks. The underwater topography is also decorated with spectacular, giant sea fans.
Dive sites: North Twin Island
Western Rocky, Mergui Archipelago
Diving begins at Seafan Forest, a magical site carpeted in immense, colorful gorgonian fans and lush soft corals. The adventure continues at the main island of Western Rocky, which features an impressive cavern that tunnels from one side of the island to the other. The area's pinnacles host macro life and several shark species, including the elusive Bowmouth guitarfish.
Dive sites: Seafan Forest, Western Rocky
Mergui Archipelago
This day is dedicated to exploring more of the archipelago's remote and seldom-visited pinnacles and islands. These pristine locations are ideal for discovering untouched coral gardens and unique marine life. The day's dive plan remains flexible to ensure visiting the best possible sites based on current weather and sea conditions.
The Volcano, Mergui Archipelago / Kawthaung, Myanmar
The final dives of the expedition are conducted at a site known as The Volcano, a submerged crater frequented by blacktip reef sharks. It's also an excellent location for macro photography, with a high chance of spotting seahorses and other rare fish. After the morning dives, the boat will cruise back towards Kawthaung to clear Myanmar immigration before sailing overnight to Thailand.
Dive sites: The Volcano
Ranong, Thailand
The liveaboard arrives at the pier in Ranong in the morning. You will enjoy a final breakfast on board with your fellow divers before disembarking.