Smiling Seahorse · Thailand · 8D/7N
Explore the remote northern Andaman Sea on an 8-day diving expedition out of Ranong. This route focuses on the Myeik Archipelago, boasting pristine soft coral gardens, dramatic rock formations, and a rich macro life. Expect encounters with reef sharks, marble rays, and a variety of pelagic fish in areas less frequented by other vessels. The currents can be variable, offering exhilarating drift dives for experienced divers, while the more sheltered sites provide accessible opportunities for all. This itinerary promises a journey through a truly unspoiled underwater wilderness.
Ranong, Thailand
Board the vessel at the port in Ranong in the afternoon. After settling into your cabin, you'll receive a welcome briefing before the boat departs overnight, heading towards the Surin Islands.
Good to know: Embarkation typically happens around 4 PM. Dinner is served onboard as the journey begins.
Surin Islands
Wake up to the beautiful scenery of the Surin Islands National Park for the first day of diving. The dives will explore the healthy and expansive hard coral gardens, which are home to numerous reef fish and sea turtles.
Dive sites: Surin Neua, Ao Mae Yai
Good to know: The Surin Islands are known for being less crowded than the Similans, offering a more tranquil diving experience.
Surin Islands
Continue exploring the diverse underwater topography of the Surin Islands. Between dives at sites like Torinla Pinnacle, there is often a chance for a shore excursion to visit a local Moken (sea gypsy) village.
Dive sites: Torinla Pinnacle, Koh Chi
Good to know: Night dives may be offered depending on conditions and the cruise schedule.
Richelieu Rock
The entire day is dedicated to the legendary Richelieu Rock. This isolated, horseshoe-shaped pinnacle is a magnet for marine life, with opportunities to see everything from ghost pipefish and seahorses to massive schools of fish and potentially whale sharks.
Dive sites: Richelieu Rock
Good to know: Due to its immense biodiversity and size, multiple dives are needed to fully appreciate this world-class site.
Koh Tachai
Head south to dive the famous Koh Tachai Pinnacle. This submerged granite dome is known for its exhilarating currents, which attract large schools of barracuda, trevally, and batfish, as well as occasional manta rays and whale sharks.
Dive sites: Koh Tachai Pinnacle
Good to know: Currents can be strong at this site, making it more suitable for experienced divers.
Koh Bon
Journey further south to Koh Bon, one of Thailand's most reliable sites for spotting oceanic manta rays. Dives will focus on the western ridge, a popular cleaning station where these majestic animals gracefully interact with cleaner wrasse.
Dive sites: Koh Bon West Ridge, Koh Bon Pinnacle
Good to know: While mantas are the main draw, the site also features beautiful soft corals and abundant macro life.
North Andaman Sea
Enjoy the last two morning dives of the trip, often at a local wreck or another vibrant reef. Following the dives, the boat will begin its cruise back towards Ranong, allowing plenty of time to wash gear and relax.
Dive sites: Boonsung Wreck
Good to know: No diving in the afternoon to allow for sufficient off-gassing time before disembarkation the next day.
Ranong, Thailand
After enjoying a final breakfast on board, you will disembark in Ranong. The crew will assist with organizing transfers for your onward journey.
Good to know: Disembarkation is typically scheduled for the morning.