Thailand
Diving Expedition
Thailand
Luxury Phinisi Liveaboard
Diving Expedition
Thailand & Myanmar
Liveaboard Diving Expeditions
Signature Journeys to Southeast Asia’s Top Dive Sites
Set sail on a unique Diving Charter Expedition in Southeast Asia, designed for adventurous divers who value exploration and elegance. Our group and cabin charters aboard liveaboard and luxury Phinisi yachts journey through the legendary waters of Thailand’s Andaman Sea and Myanmar’s Mergui Archipelago, revealing dive sites far beyond the limits of shore-based travel.
This carefully curated route showcases Thailand’s most celebrated dive locations. Descend onto the vibrant underwater pinnacles of Hin Daeng and Hin Muang, glide through the turquoise lagoons of Koh Haa, and explore the thriving reef systems of the Similan and Surin Islands. Encounters with manta rays await at Koh Bon and Koh Tachai, before cruising south toward the relaxed islands of Koh Lipe. The journey culminates at the legendary Richelieu Rock, a mesmerizing submerged seamount famed for its rich biodiversity, whale shark sightings, and spectacular pelagic action—widely regarded as Thailand’s finest dive site.
Beyond Thailand, the expedition continues into Myanmar’s remote frontier, where untouched reefs and dramatic seascapes define the experience. Navigate the secluded islands of the Mergui Archipelago, diving iconic sites such as Black Rock, the vibrant Sea Fan Forest, North and South Twin, and the renowned Burma Banks, known for deep drop-offs, strong currents, and exhilarating encounters with large marine life.
Southern Thailand unveils its most iconic dive destinations, from the Phi Phi Islands, where limestone cliffs rise majestically from crystal-clear, emerald waters, to the remote pinnacles of Hin Daeng, Hin Muang, and Koh Haa. Scattered hidden gems add an extra layer of discovery, creating a seamless journey of scenic cruising, exhilarating dives, and extraordinary marine encounters.
Diving in this region reveals colorful reef slopes, caverns, and swim-throughs teeming with reef fish, leopard sharks, and rich macro life. Sheltered bays offer relaxed conditions for snorkeling and surface intervals surrounded by Thailand’s most iconic coastal scenery.
Between dives, life aboard unfolds in refined comfort. Spacious cabins, open sun decks, attentive crews, and freshly prepared cuisine set the tone for relaxed days at sea. Whether you join a shared cabin charter or secure a private group diving expedition, our Andaman Sea and Myanmar liveaboard charters deliver an immersive blend of world-class diving and sophisticated yacht living above and below the surface.
Following the Seasons of the Andaman Sea
Operating primarily from October to May, The Phinisi follows seasonal conditions to access the finest dive regions in Thailand and Myanmar:
Best of Thailand
Andaman Sea Liveaboard Diving Expedition
This north-to-south Andaman Sea expedition offers an 8 or 10-night journey through Thailand’s top dive regions. You’ll visit places like the Similan and Surin Islands, Hin Daeng, Hin Muang, Koh Haa, Richelieu Rock, and more. Enjoy a wide variety of dive sites and some of the best diving experiences in the world.
Southern Thailand
Luxury Liveaboard Diving Expeditions
Discover Southern Thailand’s most iconic dive destinations on 8- or 10-night liveaboard expeditions. From the towering limestone cliffs of the Phi Phi Islands and the remote pinnacles of Hin Daeng, Hin Muang, and Koh Haa, experience thrilling dives, hidden gems, and see plenty of marine life in crystal-clear, emerald waters.
Similan & Surin Islands
Luxury Liveaboard Diving Expedition
Set sail on an extraordinary 4- or 6-night liveaboard diving expedition through Thailand’s Similan and Surin Islands. You’ll explore colorful reefs and tall pinnacles, see manta rays, whale sharks, and schools of pelagic fish, and experience the beauty of Richelieu Rock, known as Southern Thailand’s top diving spot.
Myanmar
Luxury Liveaboard Diving in the Mergui Archipelago
Experience a 7- or 10-night liveaboard diving expedition through Myanmar’s Mergui Archipelago. Explore remote reefs and towering offshore seamounts to see nature at its best. From Black Rock to Burma Banks, dive alongside manta rays, whale sharks, and large schools of fish. This is a unique and comfortable adventure for those who love discovery.
A Sailing Experience Beyond Diving
Life aboard The Phinisi is about more than exceptional dive sites. Days unfold between ocean horizons, freshly prepared regional cuisine, attentive service, and the quiet luxury of space and tradition. Whether watching the sails rise at dawn or sharing stories over sunset dinners on deck, The Phinisi offers a rare blend of heritage, adventure, and refined liveaboard living.
For divers seeking authenticity, character, and world-class underwater exploration, The Phinisi is not simply a yacht—it is part of the journey itself.
Liveaboard Diving Expedition
Thailand
Luxury Phinisi Diving Adventures
Discover Thailand’s Iconic Dive Sites on a Luxury Liveaboard
Step aboard a traditional yet refined Phinisi liveaboard and experience Thailand’s finest dive destinations in the Andaman Sea with unmatched style and comfort. Whether choosing a private charter or a cabin booking, this iconic yacht is crafted for immersive diving journeys, guided by expert instructors and supported by a fully equipped, certified dive center—perfect for both seasoned divers and those discovering Thailand’s vibrant underwater world for the first time.
From the dramatic pinnacles of Hin Daeng and Hin Muang to the towering limestone cliffs of the Phi Phi Islands, Koh Haa’s hidden lagoons, and the kaleidoscopic reefs of Richelieu Rock, each expedition combines breathtaking natural scenery, abundant marine life, and serene cruising. Between dives, glide past quiet anchorages, thriving coral gardens, and stunning seascapes, all illuminated by the warm tropical sun.
This elegant, classic Phinisi is more than a yacht—it is a floating sanctuary, seamlessly blending adventure, comfort, and timeless craftsmanship. Every voyage is carefully curated to deliver unforgettable dives, refined onboard living, and an authentic connection to the unparalleled beauty of Thailand’s Andaman Sea.
Thailand
Luxury Crewed Yacht Charter
Liveaboard Diving Expedition
Professional Crews * Personalized Service
If you want a diving expedition beyond a conventional liveaboard, The Phinisi offers an exceptional way to explore the very best of the Andaman Sea. From the legendary Similan and Surin Islands to the remote, untouched reefs of the Myanmar Mergui Archipelago, and south through Thailand’s top dive regions, including Hin Daeng, Hin Muang, Koh Haa, and the Phi Phi Islands, each itinerary is crafted for discovery and immersion. Cruising between pristine reefs, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic island landscapes, The Phinisi blends serious dive exploration with onboard comfort, attentive service, and a calm, elegant atmosphere. This creates a seamless balance between adventure below the surface and refined life at sea.
The Phinisi
A Timeless Sailing Icon for Extraordinary Dive Expeditions
Graceful, powerful, and unmistakably authentic, The Phinisi is a classic Indonesian-style sailing yacht that captures the romance of traditional seafaring while delivering the comfort and performance of a modern dive liveaboard. She is one of the most recognisable and respected expedition yachts cruising the Andaman Sea of Thailand and Myanmar.
With her towering masts, traditional rigging, and elegant wooden lines, The Phinisi evokes the spirit of a 19th-century schooner—yet beneath her historic silhouette lies a vessel purpose-built for serious diving and refined life at sea.
The Phinisi is operated by a highly seasoned, professional crew, delivering diving journeys that leave a lasting impression. From the relaxed luxury onboard to the yacht’s distinctive atmosphere, every cruise unfolds as a truly memorable experience.
The Vessel
Traditional Soul, Modern Heart
At 34 metres (112 feet) in length, The Phinisi is a custom-built wooden yacht launched in 2007 and thoughtfully refitted in 2018 to meet the demands of extended scuba diving expeditions. Crafted with rich teak finishes and expansive open decks, she offers both visual impact and exceptional onboard flow.
Wide deck spaces invite guests to relax between dives, watch sail hoisting against tropical skies, or simply absorb the rhythm of the ocean. Indoors, a fully air-conditioned saloon with entertainment systems provides a cool, comfortable retreat, while shaded outdoor dining areas at the stern create the perfect setting for relaxed meals at sea.
Designed to host up to 18 guests in just 7 cabins, The Phinisi maintains an intimate expedition atmosphere rarely found on vessels of her size.
The Salon
Refined Comfort Beyond the Decks
The Phinisi is thoughtfully shaped around a collection of inviting gathering spaces, blending indoor comfort with open-air leisure and the constant presence of the sea. The indoor, air-conditioned lounge offers a cool, welcoming retreat throughout the day, with a coffee station, charging points for cameras and personal electronics, and plush seating for quiet moments, reading, or relaxed conversation.
Outside, a shaded alfresco area becomes the heart of life on board. It is perfect for unhurried meals, informal dive briefings, or simply settling into the gentle rhythm of the ocean as warm breezes drift through. The spacious dive deck is built for efficiency and comfort, providing ample room to prepare equipment, organize gear, and gear up with ease before each dive.
Above, the sun deck invites effortless relaxation. Cushioned loungers and oversized bean bags create a serene space to unwind between dives, watch tropical islands glide past, or take in sweeping panoramic views of the Andaman Sea. Whether basking in sunshine or retreating into shade, every shared space aboard The Phinisi is designed to elevate the experience, delivering comfort, flow, and a sense of refined freedom both above and below the surface.
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Diving Experience
Built by Divers, for Divers
The Phinisi is operated by one of Southeast Asia’s most respected liveaboard fleets and is engineered to deliver seamless, efficient diving at some of the region’s most demanding sites.
The spacious dive deck is well organised, with individual storage crates, freshwater rinse tanks, and a dedicated camera station for underwater photographers. Two motorised RIB tenders allow precise drop-offs and pickups, essential for sites such as Richelieu Rock or offshore pinnacles.
Nitrox is available to certified divers and is recommended for the vessel’s dive schedule, which often reaches up to four dives per day. Selected PADI courses, including Advanced Open Water and Nitrox, may be arranged on request.
Everything aboard is designed to maximise time underwater while maintaining comfort, safety, and efficient logistics.
Accommodation
Flexible, Comfortable & Thoughtfully Designed
The Phinisi offers flexible cabin configurations that seamlessly accommodate couples, families, friends, and independent travellers.
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Double / Twin Cabins featuring a fixed double bed with an additional single berth
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Fixed Twin Cabins with two single beds
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Quad Cabins with four single bunks, ideal for solo divers or families seeking excellent value
Each cabin is air-conditioned and thoughtfully appointed with a private en-suite bathroom, a hot-water shower, individual climate control, fans, and a personal safe, offering a calm and comfortable haven between dive days.
The Diving Experience
Diving aboard The Phinisi is designed for comfort, efficiency, and ease—allowing you to focus entirely on the experience beneath the surface. The shaded dive deck provides a well-organized, spacious environment where every diver enjoys a clearly defined personal setup area, complete with individual storage crates conveniently located beneath the benches.
High-quality 12-liter aluminium tanks, weights, and belts are included, while 15-liter aluminium or steel tanks are available on request. A full range of Aqualung rental equipment can be arranged, and Nitrox is available for certified divers. Surface marker buoys (SMBs) are provided free of charge for the duration of your trip, and fresh personal dive and deck towels are supplied for every guest.
Two powerful tenders ensure smooth, efficient drop-offs and pickups, even at more remote or current-exposed dive sites, enhancing both safety and flexibility throughout the itinerary.
Dive Deck & Camera Facilities
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Shaded, spacious dive deck
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Personal storage crates (under bench)
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Equipment rinse tank: 1
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Dedicated camera rinse tank: 1
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Camera table: Yes
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Deck towels: Provided
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Deck bathrooms: 2
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Tenders: 2
Photographers and videographers will appreciate the dedicated camera table and rinse facilities, offering a secure and convenient space to prepare, maintain, and protect sensitive equipment between dives.
Professional Diving Facilities
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Scuba equipment rental: Aqualung (additional charges apply)
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12-liter aluminium tanks: Included
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15-liter aluminium or steel tanks: Additional charges apply
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Weights and belts: Included
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Valve fittings: DIN & INT
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Compressors: 2 × Coltri
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Nitrox bank system: Up to 32% (additional charges apply)
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Technical diving friendly: Yes
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Rebreather friendly: Yes
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Rebreather rental: Not available
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Surface marker buoys: Available
Built to support serious diving, the Phinisi integrates advanced dive systems within a spacious, well-balanced yacht, delivering a calm, safe, and elevated liveaboard experience across the Andaman Sea.
Thailand
Luxury Phinisi Liveaboard
The Best Dive Expeditions
Andaman Sea
Best Diving Spots in Thailand’s Andaman Sea
Best Diving Spots in Thailand’s Andaman Sea
Experience the best of Thailand’s Andaman Sea diving with an itinerary that highlights the country’s most famous and varied underwater spots. From distant pinnacles to untouched marine parks, you’ll see why Thailand is a top scuba diving destination in Southeast Asia.
Our diving routes connect legendary sites such as Hin Daeng and Hin Muang, the turquoise lagoons of Koh Haa, the granite rocks of the Similan Islands, the coral reefs of the Surin Islands, and the open-water areas of Koh Bon and Koh Tachai. If you travel farther south, you might also explore Koh Lipe before reaching Richelieu Rock, which is known worldwide for its rich marine life and opportunities to see large sea creatures.
Why Dive Thailand’s Andaman Sea?
The Andaman Sea offers one of the most rewarding and varied diving experiences in Asia. Few destinations combine protected national parks, dramatic underwater landscapes, and consistently rich marine life within a single region.
What makes this region exceptional for divers:
Unmatched diversity of dive sites
Each area delivers a distinct diving character—from massive granite boulders and swim-throughs in the Similan Islands, to soft-coral gardens in the Surin Islands and deep walls and pinnacles in the southern Andaman Sea.
Abundant marine life
Divers regularly encounter reef sharks, turtles, vast schools of snapper and fusiliers, barracuda, trevally, and vibrant macro species. Seasonal highlights include manta rays and the occasional whale shark, particularly at offshore cleaning stations and seamounts.
Striking underwater topography
Expect an ever-changing mix of pinnacles, caverns, steep walls, coral slopes, and narrow channels, creating dynamic and visually dramatic dive profiles throughout the itinerary.
In essence, if you are seeking maximum variety, world-famous dive sites, and the chance of pelagic encounters in one seamless expedition, the Andaman Sea delivers an experience that is difficult to surpass.
Dive Highlights & Marine Ecosystems
Some of the region’s defining features include:
Diving the Similan and Surin Islands reveals monumental granite outcrops, hidden passages, and striking underwater relief, often accompanied by crystal-clear visibility.
Healthy hard and soft coral reefs, home to sea fans, anemones, and dense schools of tropical fish
Pelagic action at sites like Koh Bon, Koh Tachai, and Richelieu Rock, known for manta rays, schooling fish, and seasonal whale shark sightings.
A rich macro world, including nudibranchs, seahorses, ghost pipefish, and crustaceans
Each dive site contributes a different chapter to the overall journey, ensuring a well-balanced and continuously engaging expedition.
Best Time to Dive the Andaman Sea
The prime diving season in Thailand’s Andaman Sea runs from mid-October to mid-May, when the northern marine parks are open and conditions are most stable.
January to April is generally considered the peak period for manta ray and whale shark encounters. Water temperatures remain comfortably warm year-round, averaging 28–30°C, ideal for extended, relaxed dives. Sea conditions during the main season are typically calm, allowing for smooth crossings and reliable dive schedules.
Travel Logistics & Trip Planning
Our Liveaboard diving itineraries in Thailand usually depart from either Khao Lak (Thap Lamu Pier) or Phuket, with routes often ending at Chalong Pier in Phuket or vice versa. Exact embarkation details are confirmed prior to departure.
Most guests arrive via Phuket International Airport, where an overnight stay before boarding is recommended. From Phuket or Khao Lak, coordinated transfers bring you directly to the vessel, ensuring a smooth and stress-free start to your diving adventure.
Dive Conditions & Experience Level
Diving in the Andaman Sea is suitable for certified divers of varying experience levels, offering a balanced mix of gentle reef dives and more dynamic sites influenced by currents.
Minimum certification: Open Water Diver
Recommended experience: at least 10 logged dives
Visibility typically ranges from 20 to 40 metres, depending on location and conditions.
This combination makes the region appealing to both developing divers and seasoned enthusiasts seeking iconic sites and marine encounters.
Luxury Liveaboard Phinisi Yacht
Experience the Andaman Sea aboard the traditional luxury Liveaboard Phinisi yacht, where classic maritime craftsmanship meets modern comfort. Designed for extended diving expeditions, this spacious liveaboard yacht offers exceptional stability and generous deck areas—perfect for relaxing between dives, enjoying panoramic sea views, or unwinding under the tropical sun.
Inside, the yacht features a welcoming salon designed for comfort and social moments, complemented by well-appointed cabins that offer a calm, private retreat after a day on the water. Thoughtful layouts, soft furnishings, and air-conditioned spaces ensure restful nights and effortless living at sea.
Between dives, savor freshly prepared Thai cuisine, crafted daily onboard using local ingredients and served in a relaxed, convivial setting. From leisurely breakfasts to sunset dinners, each meal becomes part of the journey.
Supported by a highly experienced and attentive crew, and equipped with professional dive facilities, the Phinisi yacht delivers a seamless balance of adventure and indulgence. From early-morning dive briefings to golden-hour surface intervals on deck, every moment aboard is curated to create an immersive and unforgettable Andaman Sea liveaboard experience—above and below the surface.
Similan & Surin Islands
Phinisi Liveaboard Dive Expedition
Similan & Surin Islands Dive Expedition
Set out on an extraordinary liveaboard dive journey through the legendary Similan and Surin Islands, one of Thailand’s most iconic marine regions. A luxury Phinisi diving liveaboard sets the stage for an expedition that unites remote island exploration, world-class dive sites, and refined comfort across the Andaman Sea.
From the dramatic underwater landscapes of the Similan Islands to the coral-rich reefs of the Surin Islands, this route delivers a powerful combination of scenic beauty and marine diversity.
Offshore pinnacles such as Koh Bon and Koh Tachai attract pelagic species, while the journey often culminates at the legendary Richelieu Rock—a site revered by divers worldwide for its dense marine life and ever-changing underwater action.
Why Dive the Similan & Surin Islands?
Located in the Andaman Sea off Thailand’s west coast, the Similan and Surin Islands National Parks represent some of the country’s most protected and pristine dive environments. Their remote setting and seasonal access have helped preserve exceptional underwater conditions.
What makes this region so special for scuba divers:
Spectacular underwater scenery
Divers encounter expansive granite seascapes shaped into arches, passages, overhangs, steep walls, and pinnacles, often set against remarkably clear water that enhances both photography and wide-angle exploration.
Rich and varied marine life
The reefs support a thriving mix of hard and soft corals, alongside turtles, reef sharks, large schooling fish, and a colourful macro world. Seasonal visitors such as manta rays and whale sharks are regularly spotted at cleaning stations and offshore sites.
A perfect balance of beauty and biodiversity
Few destinations offer such a compelling blend of dramatic topography and marine abundance, making the Similan and Surin Islands a firm favourite for divers seeking both visual impact and wildlife encounters.
Highlights: Dive Sites & Marine Life
Key features of this expedition include:
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World-renowned dive sites such as Richelieu Rock, celebrated for its intense concentration of marine life and constantly evolving scenes
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Distinctive granite formations create swim-throughs, caverns, ridges, and layered reef structures
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Diverse marine encounters, including turtles, reef sharks, barracuda, trevally, vast schools of fish, and intricate macro species hidden within the reefs
Each dive presents a different character, ensuring a varied and rewarding experience throughout the voyage.
Best Time to Dive
The Similan and Surin Islands are accessible during a defined season to protect the marine environment.
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Main diving season: mid-October to mid-May
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Peak period for manta rays and whale sharks: typically December through April
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Water temperature: a comfortable 28–30°C
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Visibility: often excellent during the open season, frequently exceeding 30 metres
Outside this period, the national parks are closed due to monsoon conditions.
Logistics: Getting There & Trip Planning
Liveaboard departures to the Similan and Surin Islands usually begin from Khao Lak (Thap Lamu Pier), with occasional departures from Chalong Pier in Phuket. Your confirmed embarkation point will be detailed with your booking information.
Guests typically arrive via Phuket International Airport, where an overnight stay is recommended before departure. From Phuket or Khao Lak, an organised transfer service brings you directly to the vessel, ensuring a smooth and relaxed start to your expedition.
Dive Conditions & Level of Difficulty
Diving in the Similan and Surin Islands is suitable for certified divers of varying experience, offering a mix of calm reef dives and more dynamic sites influenced by currents.
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Minimum requirement: Open Water certification
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Recommended experience: at least 10 logged dives
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Visibility can be exceptional, occasionally reaching 40–50 metres in optimal conditions
This balance makes the region appealing to both newer divers building experience and seasoned divers seeking iconic sites.
Liveaboard Phinisi Yacht
Dive the Similan & Surin Islands Aboard a Luxury Phinisi Yacht
Discover the Similan and Surin Islands aboard a traditional luxury Phinisi Liveaboard yacht, where timeless maritime design meets modern liveaboard comfort. Built for extended dive expeditions, these vessels offer outstanding stability, generous deck space, and relaxed outdoor areas ideal for surface intervals, sunset views, and open-sea cruising.
Inside, guests enjoy a comfortable, air-conditioned salon for dining and socialising, along with thoughtfully designed cabins that provide privacy and tranquillity after a full day of diving. Soft furnishings, well-planned layouts, and attentive service create a welcoming atmosphere throughout the voyage.
Between dives, indulge in freshly prepared Thai cuisine, crafted onboard using local ingredients and served throughout the day—from early breakfasts to leisurely dinners under the stars.
With professional dive facilities and a highly experienced crew dedicated to safety, service, and seamless operations, a Phinisi liveaboard offers the perfect platform for exploring the Similan and Surin Islands in depth—delivering an unforgettable Andaman Sea diving experience both above and below the surface.
Southern Thailand
Phinisi Liveaboard Dive Expedition
Exploring the Iconic Dive Sites of Southern Thailand
Exploring the Very Best Diving of Southern Thailand
Join us on an exceptional liveaboard dive expedition through the Southern Andaman Sea, where dramatic limestone islands, vibrant reefs, and legendary offshore pinnacles define one of Thailand’s most diverse diving regions. This carefully curated itinerary showcases Southern Thailand’s most iconic dive destinations—including the Phi Phi Islands, Hin Daeng, Hin Muang, Koh Haa, and several hidden southern favorites—delivering a perfect balance of scenic cruising, exhilarating dives, and rich marine encounters.
From vertical walls and cathedral-like caverns to open-ocean pinnacles alive with pelagics, each day reveals a new underwater landscape shaped by currents, color, and life.
Why Dive Southern Thailand’s Andaman Sea?
Southern Thailand’s Andaman Sea is defined by striking limestone islands, vibrant reefs, and a diverse range of dive environments spread along the coast. Easy access combined with well-protected marine areas has helped preserve healthy coral systems and abundant marine life, making this region one of Thailand’s most rewarding and varied diving destinations.
What Makes Southern Thailand Special for Scuba Divers?
Diverse and thriving reef systems
Southern Thailand’s Andaman Sea features a wide range of healthy reef environments, from coral gardens and limestone walls to offshore pinnacles. Thanks to marine park protection and favorable conditions, hard and soft corals flourish, visibility is often excellent, and dive sites feel open and uncrowded—especially away from day-boat routes.
Memorable marine life encounters
The region is known for its rich marine biodiversity, with frequent sightings of turtles, reef sharks, rays, and dense schools of fish. At certain sites and seasons, manta rays and whale sharks may also appear, adding moments of true excitement to the dive experience.
Striking underwater topography
Dives reveal dramatic seascapes shaped by limestone cliffs, submerged caverns, steep walls, and open-water pinnacles. This varied terrain delivers engaging dive profiles and a sense of discovery that keeps every immersion unique.
For divers seeking variety, iconic scenery, and rewarding encounters—without venturing far off the map—Southern Thailand offers an expedition-style experience that is both accessible and deeply satisfying.
Highlights: Dive Sites & Marine Life
Key highlights of this Southern Thailand expedition include:
A diverse collection of offshore pinnacles, limestone walls, and submerged ridges, offering dramatic depth changes, open-water views, and engaging drift dives.
Well-preserved reef systems featuring colourful soft corals, gorgonian sea fans, and vibrant reef slopes teeming with life
Nutrient-rich waters that attract an impressive range of marine life, including reef sharks, turtles, rays, barracuda, trevally, and—at the right time—manta rays and whale sharks
From sheltered coral gardens to exposed seamounts, every dive presents a distinct atmosphere, making Southern Thailand a destination defined by variety, movement, and continual discovery.
Best Time to Dive
Southern Thailand’s Andaman Sea offers a well-defined dive season shaped by regional weather patterns.
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Main season: mid-October to mid-May
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Southwest monsoon: typically mid-May to mid-October, when rougher seas and reduced visibility lead to limited or no diving in many areas
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Best chances for manta rays and whale sharks: usually January to April
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Water temperature: warm and inviting at approximately 28–30 °C
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Visibility: often very good, commonly between 20 and 40 metres
During the main season, calmer seas and stable conditions allow for smooth crossings and reliable access to Southern Thailand’s signature dive sites.
Logistics: Getting There & Trip Planning
Southern Thailand liveaboard expeditions embark directly from Phuket, offering straightforward access to the Andaman Sea’s premier dive regions. Exact departure details, including pier location and boarding time, are confirmed before your cruise to ensure a smooth, stress-free start. Phuket International Airport is well-connected by domestic and international flights, making travel planning simple. We recommend arriving at least one day before departure. Detailed pre-trip information, including schedules and embarkation guidance, is provided in advance to ensure a seamless journey from arrival to cast-off.
Dive Conditions & Level of Difficulty
Diving in Southern Thailand’s Andaman Sea is suitable for a wide range of certified divers, offering a mix of relaxed reef dives and more dynamic sites influenced by currents and open-water conditions.
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Minimum certification: Open Water Diver
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Recommended experience: at least 10 logged dives
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Visibility: commonly very good, often between 20 and 40 metres
While many sites are gentle and accessible, select pinnacles and offshore locations offer more energetic dives, rewarding divers who enjoy variety and a gradually increasing level of challenge within a single expedition.
Southern Thailand's
Iconic Dive Sites & Liveaboard Diving
Koh Phi Phi Island
Located in the heart of the Andaman Sea, the Phi Phi Islands lie approximately 24 nm east of Phuket and 16 nm southwest of Krabi. This striking island group is defined by towering limestone cliffs that plunge straight into turquoise waters, creating an unforgettable backdrop both above and below the surface.
Diving around Phi Phi is varied and visually dramatic, with numerous sites featuring wall dives where limestone faces descend from shallow plateaus down to depths of 10–25 metres. These walls are adorned with soft corals, sea fans, coral bushes, and sculpted rock formations, often punctuated by swim-throughs and overhangs. At their base, healthy hard-coral gardens spread across sandy slopes.
Marine life is abundant and diverse: schools of trevallies and snappers patrol the blue, while lionfish, angelfish, wrasse, and Moorish idols weave through the reef. Leopard sharks are frequently spotted resting on sandy bottoms, blacktip reef sharks cruise the shallows, and turtles are regular visitors. Patient observers may also discover tigertail seahorses and harlequin ghost pipefish hidden among the fans and coral bushes.
Koh Haa
Often considered one of Southern Thailand’s most rewarding yet underrated dive regions, Moo Koh Haa—meaning “the five islands”—lies roughly 18 nm south of Phi Phi, within the Koh Lanta National Marine Park. This compact island group offers an extraordinary variety of underwater terrain rarely found on a single itinerary.
Dive sites here feature steep walls, scattered pinnacles, massive boulders, caverns, and intricate swim-throughs. Koh Haa Lagoon provides calm, protected conditions ideal for relaxed dives, night dives, and snorkeling, while signature sites such as The Chimney and The Cathedral reveal dramatic vertical passages, vaulted chambers, and shafts of light penetrating from above.
Marine life ranges from ornate ghost pipefish, octopus, and moray eels to hawksbill turtles, marble rays, and occasional leopard sharks. Seahorses and macro treasures reward slow, attentive divers, making Koh Haa a standout for both wide-angle scenery and fine detail.
Hin Daeng & Hin Muang
Rising dramatically from deep open water, Hin Daeng (Red Rock) and Hin Muang (Purple Rock) are among Thailand’s most celebrated offshore dive sites. Located approximately 45–50 nm south of Phuket, these submerged pinnacles descend to depths of more than 70 metres, creating vertical walls and terraces exposed to nutrient-rich currents.
These sites are internationally renowned for encounters with manta rays and whale sharks, particularly during peak season. Even without big pelagics, the sheer density of life is extraordinary: giant moray eels, pharaoh cuttlefish, schooling rainbow runners, barracudas, fusiliers, groupers, snappers, and bluefin trevally dominate the scene.
The pinnacles themselves are blanketed in magnificent anemones, vibrant soft corals, and enormous gorgonian sea fans. Combined with consistently good visibility and dramatic topography, Hin Daeng and Hin Muang deliver some of the most exhilarating liveaboard diving in Southern Thailand.
King Cruiser Wreck
The King Cruiser wreck adds a fascinating historical dimension to Southern Thailand’s dive portfolio. Once a passenger ferry operating between Phuket and Phi Phi, the vessel struck Anemone Reef in 1997 and sank shortly thereafter. While time and currents have broken up parts of the structure, the wreck has transformed into a thriving artificial reef.
Now encrusted with soft corals and sponges, the remains shelter dense schools of snappers and a variety of reef fish. Currents can be present and visibility may vary, making this an engaging and rewarding dive—particularly suited for Advanced Open Water divers and training dives with a sense of adventure.
Shark Point & Anemone Reef
These two classic sites form part of the same reef system and are located only a short distance apart, making them ideal companions on a Southern Thailand itinerary. Rising from sandy seabeds, the pinnacles are richly decorated with colorful soft corals and dense fields of anemones.
Diving here offers something for everyone: barracudas circle the pinnacles, while macro enthusiasts can search for seahorses and other small reef inhabitants. With luck, the unmistakable silhouette of a leopard shark gliding across the sand adds a memorable highlight.
Koh Doc Mai
Despite its small size, Koh Doc Mai, or “Flower Island,” consistently delivers big surprises. Situated between Shark Point and Phuket, this sheer limestone outcrop features vertical walls, crevices, and a spacious cavern that invites exploration.
Dives here often reveal frogfish, ornate ghost pipefish, nudibranchs, and even bamboo sharks resting in sheltered areas. Koh Doc Mai is a favorite for photographers and those who enjoy discovering unexpected details in compact dive sites.
Myanmar
Phinisi Liveaboard Dive Expedition
Myanmar Mergui Archipelago
Dive Expedition Myanmar Mergui Archipelago
Join a unique liveaboard dive expedition into the remote waters of the Myanmar Mergui Archipelago, one of Southeast Asia’s last truly untamed dive frontiers. This intriguing journey ventures far from established tourism routes, revealing a raw and powerful underwater world defined by isolation, scale, and exceptional marine life. Cruising deep into the archipelago, the itinerary explores legendary dive sites such as Black Rock, the vibrant Sea Fan Forest, North and South Twin, and the iconic Burma Banks—vast offshore seamounts rising from the depths of the Andaman Sea. Each site delivers a sense of discovery rarely found elsewhere, making this expedition ideal for divers seeking authentic, expedition-style exploration.
Why Dive the Myanmar Mergui Archipelago?
Stretching along Myanmar’s southern coastline near the Thai border, the Mergui Archipelago comprises hundreds of largely uninhabited islands scattered across the Andaman Sea. Limited access and minimal development have preserved this region as one of Asia’s most pristine dive destinations.
What sets this region apart for scuba divers:
Unspoiled, uncrowded reefs
With very few vessels operating in the area, divers experience healthy reef systems marked by flourishing hard and soft corals, large sea fans, and excellent underwater clarity—often without another boat in sight.
Impressive big-animal encounters
The archipelago is renowned for pelagic activity, with regular sightings of manta rays, whale sharks, eagle rays, leopard sharks, and large schools of hunting fish offshore.
Dramatic and powerful underwater landscapes
Expect deep walls, isolated pinnacles, open-ocean seamounts, and sheer drop-offs that create thrilling dive profiles and a true sense of exploration.
For divers drawn to remote locations, fewer crowds, and a genuine expedition atmosphere, the Mergui Archipelago offers an experience that feels both rare and rewarding.
Highlights: Dive Sites & Marine Life
Standout features of this expedition include:
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Remote offshore pinnacles and seamounts, delivering steep walls, deep blue-water drop-offs, and exhilarating drift dives
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Exceptionally healthy reef systems, with vast sea fans, soft coral fields, and dense reef coverage
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Pelagic-rich waters, home to manta rays, whale sharks, leopard sharks, eagle rays, barracuda, and large schools of pelagic fish
Each dive site reveals a different character, reinforcing the sense of adventure and unpredictability that defines diving in Myanmar.
Best Time to Dive
The diving season in the Myanmar Mergui Archipelago is relatively short, helping to preserve its untouched nature.
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Main season: January to April
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Peak pelagic encounters: typically February through April
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Water temperature: comfortably warm at around 27–29°C
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Visibility: generally very good, often between 20 and 40 metres
During this period, sea conditions are usually calm, allowing for smoother crossings between offshore sites.
Logistics: Getting There & Trip Planning
Myanmar liveaboard expeditions operate via Ranong, Thailand, with formal border clearance completed in Kawthaung, Myanmar as part of the journey. All necessary arrangements are handled seamlessly within the expedition logistics.
Detailed travel guidance, schedules, and entry requirements are provided in advance, and we are happy to share comprehensive Myanmar Trip Information to support your planning.
Dive Conditions & Level of Difficulty
Diving in the Mergui Archipelago is best suited to experienced and confident divers, due to deeper dive profiles, exposed offshore locations, and the possibility of stronger currents.
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Minimum certification: Advanced Open Water
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Required experience: at least 30 logged dives
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Visibility: typically excellent, often ranging from 20–40 metres
This expedition rewards divers who are comfortable in open-ocean environments and eager for challenging, high-energy dive sites.
Liveaboard Phinisi Yacht
Dive the Myanmar Mergui Archipelago Aboard a Luxury Phinisi Yacht
Explore the remote islands of Myanmar aboard a traditional luxury Phinisi liveaboard, where handcrafted maritime heritage meets modern expedition comfort. Built for long-range voyages, these yachts provide exceptional stability, generous deck space, and expansive outdoor areas ideal for relaxation between dives.
Inside, guests enjoy a comfortable, air-conditioned salon for dining and socializing, along with thoughtfully designed cabins that offer privacy and rest after demanding dive days. Soft furnishings and refined layouts create a calm, welcoming onboard atmosphere.
Between dives, guests are treated to freshly prepared cuisine, inspired by regional flavours and served throughout the day—from energising breakfasts to relaxed evening meals at sea.
With professional dive facilities and a highly experienced, attentive crew, the Phinisi yacht offers a seamless balance of adventure and comfort. From early-morning briefings to sunset surface intervals on deck, every detail is curated to deliver a truly immersive Myanmar liveaboard diving expedition—one that captures the spirit of exploration both above and below the surface.
Your Thailand Liveaboard Diving Adventure Starts Here
Experience Thailand’s Andaman Sea aboard a classic luxury Phinisi liveaboard, where world-class diving and timeless maritime elegance come together. Explore legendary sites such as the Similan and Surin Islands, Richelieu Rock, Hin Daeng, Hin Muang, Koh Haa and the Myanmar Mergui Archipelago. Each Destination offering remarkable marine biodiversity and unforgettable underwater landscapes
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From secluded island anchorages to vibrant coral reefs and open-ocean pinnacles, every expedition is crafted to deliver exceptional diving alongside relaxed, refined living at sea.
Enquire today to check availability and allow us to tailor your ideal Phinisi liveaboard diving expedition through Thailand’s most spectacular waters.
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