Travel period
Features
Starting from
Liveaboard diving & tour of southern Thailand
Best travel time for a tour in Thailand
The official diving season in the Similan Islands runs from mid-October to mid-May. During these months, the islands offer the best diving conditions with visibility often reaching more than 30 meters. Especially the months between November and April are considered optimal, as the sea water is calm, stable and clear. In February & March there is more chance of seeing the larger marine animals, but visibility may decrease slightly.
Average temperatures
Wetsuit advice for Thailand
Since the water in Thailand is very pleasant, a shorty or 3mm is more than enough.
What will you experience on this trip?
View itinerary here
Day 1 & 2 | Travel to Phuket & board the Aqua
Today you will fly to Phuket. Depending on where you fly from, this can sometimes be direct, but usually with a stopover in Dubai or Singapore. Count on a plane ride here, including layover between 17 and 19 hours.
On day 2, you can board the Thailand Master. You board at Thap Lamu Pier. This evening you already have dinner on the boat and the crew will give the first briefings about safety and other matters. Then the boat sets sail for the Surin Islands.
Day 3 & 4 | Diving around Surin Islands & Richelieu Rock
The first dives start in a spectacular place: around the Surin Islands and Richelieu Rock. You will make a maximum of 4 dives per day.
The Surin Islandsare less crowded than the Similans, but offer at least as impressive nature. Both above and below water, this is a beautiful area with white beaches, mangroves and healthy reefs full of hard coral. During dives you may encounter bumphead parrotfish, napoleon fish, turtles and large schools of reef fish. The chance of encounters with turtles is particularly high here.
You will also go diving at Richelieu Rock, a spot considered the best dive site in Thailand. This horseshoe-shaped pinnacle rises from deep water and is completely covered with red- and purple-colored soft corals. The marine life here is unprecedentedly diverse: from seahorses, ghost pipefish and harlequin shrimp to schools of barracuda and hunting mackerel. Manta rays and whale sharks are also regularly spotted here. Thanks to the sheltered parts of the reef, Richelieu Rock is often easily diveable, even in currents.
Day 5 | Diving around Koh Tachai & Koh Bon
Koh Bon is best known as one of the best locations in Thailand for spotting manta rays. The dive sites range from steep walls to rolling reefs with beautiful hard corals. During drift dives along West Ridge you look out over huge schools of fish, barracudas and hunting predatory fish. Also living here are moray eels, napoleon fish, octopus and various species of nudibranchs.
Koh Tachai offers a mix of relaxed reef diving and spectacular pinnacle diving. At Twin Peaks you dive among large rock formations where turtles, barracudas, pipefish and reef fish live. In the right season, you also have a chance of meeting manta rays and whale sharks here. Thanks to the combination of granite formations, currents and clear water, these dives are among the highlights of the trip.
Day 6 & 7 | Diving around Similan Islands
The Similan Islands are one of Thailand’s most famous diving areas. Underwater you will find huge granite formations, colorful coral gardens and impressive swim-throughs. During the itinerary several famous dive sites are visited, such as Elephant Head Rock, Anita’s Reef and Three Trees. Here you can expect to see white tip reef sharks, giant trevallies, napoleon fish, stingrays and large schools of reef fish. Macro-photographers are also in for a treat thanks to the abundance of small life among the reef.
Day 8 - 10 | Diving around Koh Haa, Hin Daeng & Hin Muang
Over the next few days you will dive at different sites. On day 8 and on day 10 you will dive around Koh Haa, Hin Daeng and Hin Muang. On day 9, you will make dives around Koh Lipe.
Koh Haa literally means “Five Islands” and is part of Koh Lanta National Park. Underwater you will find lagoons, swim-throughs, caves and steep walls. Highlights include The Cathedral and The Chimney: natural passages and chambers in the rock formations that you can dive through. Koh Haa is known for clear waters and a wide variety of marine life, including turtles, octopuses, morays and zebra sharks.
Hin Daeng (Red Rock”) and Hin Muang (Purple Rock) are two remote underwater mountains in the open sea, famous for the likelihood of manta rays and whale sharks. The names refer to the red and purple soft corals that cover the rocks. These dives are known for strong currents, huge schools of fish and spectacular wall dives along steep reefs.
On day 9 you dive at Koh Lipe. Around this tropical island lie some of the most beautiful dive sites in southern Thailand. At Stonehenge, you will dive among huge granite blocks completely overgrown with colorful soft corals. In the crevices lurk moray eels, scorpion fish, shrimp and nudibranchs. At the famous 8 Mile Rock you have a chance of seeing larger pelagic species such as eagle rays, manta rays and even whale sharks. These sites are weather and current dependent, but offer spectacular dives for experienced divers.
On day 10 you return to Koh Haa, Hin Daeng and Hin Muang, where you also dived on day 8. You will dive in new places.
Day 11 | Diving around Phi Phi Islands
The last dives of the trip are made around the Phi Phi Islands, where the underwater landscape has a completely different atmosphere from the previous dive areas. Limestone formations, gentle reef slopes and sheltered bays make for varied dive sites with often calm waters and good visibility.
The reef is full of life, with colorful schools of reef fish such as fusiliers and snappers, complemented by coral butterflies and other tropical species. Moray eels and octopuses hide among the rocks, while smaller macro species such as nudibranchs are also regularly spotted. Occasionally a turtle shows itself, floating quietly along the reef.
The fun part is coming back here later this week to see the different islets as well. It’s a beautiful area!
Day 12 & 13 | Disembarkation & transfer to Khao Lak
After a final breakfast aboard the Thailand Master, your liveaboard adventure comes to an end. You head back ashore, where a transfer awaits you towards Khao Lak. This quiet coastal town on the Andaman Sea is a short distance from the pier and provides a relaxing transition after intense days at sea.
Khao Lak is known for its long, quiet beaches and relaxed atmosphere. It’s a place where the pace slows down and you have time to do nothing for a while. For the next two nights you will stay here in a comfortable hotel, with the opportunity to relax by the pool, take a beach walk or visit a local market. You’ll also find several restaurants where you can enjoy fresh Thai food overlooking the sea.
It is a nice place to recover from the trip so far, before traveling on towards the next part of the program in Southern Thailand.
Day 14 & 15 | Khao Sok National Park
After breakfast, check out of the hotel and travel towards the impressive Khao Sok National Park, one of the oldest rainforests in the world. Upon arrival, check into an atmospheric boutique jungle or lakeside resort in the middle of nature. You have the rest of the day to explore the area at your own pace. Take a walk through the jungle, enjoy the peace and quiet or simply relax amidst the tropical sounds of the rainforest. You will spend the night in Khao Sok, surrounded by spectacular nature.
The next morning starts early for a special day trip to the famous Cheow Lan Lake. From the hotel you will depart by minibus to the Rajjaprabha Dam, where a traditional longtail boat awaits you. During the boat ride, you will sail past imposing limestone rock formations that rise high above the emerald green water.
Along the way, there are several stops to take photos and enjoy the view. Then you head into the jungle for a hike through the ancient rainforest of Khao Sok National Park. Together with a guide, you will discover the special flora and fauna of the area and visit a cave full of impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
After the hike, enjoy a traditional Thai lunch at a floating restaurant on the lake. Then there is time to swim, kayak or just relax with views of the surrounding jungle and limestone peaks. In the afternoon you will sail back to the pier and be taken back to the hotel, arriving around 6:00 pm after a day of nature and adventure.
Day 16 | Phuket
After breakfast, you will depart from Khao Sok towards Phuket. The transfer takes about 3 to 4 hours and takes you past tropical landscapes, small villages and the coast of Southern Thailand. Along the way, you will see how the green rainforest slowly gives way to white beaches and the vibrant island life that Phuket is known for.
Upon arrival, check into an attractive boutique beach resort, where you are free to spend the rest of the day. Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and offers a perfect combination of relaxation, culture and friendliness. You can relax on the beach, enjoy a traditional Thai massage or visit one of the cozy beach clubs and restaurants.
There is plenty to explore beyond the beach, too. Stroll through Phuket’s colorful Old Town with its atmospheric streets and Sino-Portuguese architecture, visit one of the local night markets or enjoy a cocktail at sunset overlooking the Andaman Sea. For those who still want to be active, there are opportunities to visit a viewpoint, take a boat trip to surrounding islands or snorkel along the coast.
You will spend the night in Phuket, where you can enjoy the relaxing atmosphere for a while before the next adventure begins.
Day 17 | Full day to Phi Phi Islands
After breakfast, depart for a day trip to the world-famous Phi Phi Islands, one of Thailand’s most beautiful island groups. During the boat trip you will sail across the turquoise Andaman Sea past impressive limestone cliffs and tropical islets. You have already seen this place underwater during the liveaboard, and now have the chance to see Phi Phi above water as well.
During the day you will visit several spots around the Phi Phi Islands, where there is plenty of opportunity to snorkel among colorful reef fish and coral reefs. The clear water makes this area perfect for exploring marine life up close. With a little luck, you may even spot reef sharks or sea turtles.
In addition to snorkeling, there is of course time to enjoy the beautiful beaches and idyllic bays that Phi Phi is known for. Relax with your feet in the white sand, take a refreshing dip or simply enjoy the spectacular views of the tropical surroundings. Frequent visits to famous locations along the way include Maya Bay, made famous by the movie The Beach, and Viking Cave.
In the late afternoon, you will return to your hotel in Phuket, where you can reminisce about a wonderful day at sea.
Day 18 & 19 | Last day of Phuket and return trip
On Day 18 you will have plenty of time to relax and end the trip peacefully. Enjoy the hotel’s facilities, take a refreshing dip in the pool or book a treatment at the spa. If you still want to see some of the surroundings, you can visit one of the beaches, a local market or a cozy seaside restaurant on your own. It is the perfect day to review all the impressions of the past few weeks.
Day 19 marks the end of your diving trip. Depending on the flight schedule, you may have some free time in Phuket before being picked up for the transfer to the airport. You will then fly back home and begin your journey home. Due to the time difference and travel time, you usually arrive back home on day 20. This brings an end to a special trip full of impressive dives, wonderful underwater encounters and unforgettable
Highlights of this trip
What can you expect from touring Thailand?
Diving around the Similan Islands
The Similan Islands are among Thailand’s most famous diving areas. Clear waters, healthy coral reefs and a wide variety of marine life make every dive different. You may encounter schools of barracuda, fusiliers and snappers here, while turtles and reef sharks are frequently seen. Iconic dive sites such as Koh Bon and Koh Tachai are also on the itinerary. The region is also known for the likelihood of special encounters with manta rays and whale sharks, making every dive an opportunity to discover something unexpected and impressive.
Island hopping around Phi Phi
The Phi Phi Islands are among Thailand’s most photogenic destinations. On an island tour, you will discover idyllic beaches, hidden lagoons and bays with crystal clear waters. The limestone cliffs rising from the sea form one of the country’s most recognizable landscapes. Along the way, you will visit several islands and snorkeling sites, allowing you to not only enjoy the view above water, but also take a peek into the colorful underwater world of the Andaman Sea.
Khao Sok National Park
Khao Sok National Park is among the oldest rainforests in the world and is an impressive contrast to the coastal areas of southern Thailand. The landscape is characterized by steep limestone cliffs, dense jungle and the vast Cheow Lan Lake. During your stay, you will be introduced to an area known for its rich flora and fauna. The tranquility, nature and spectacular views make for a totally different experience from days at sea.
The accommodations
The stay and surroundings
Thailand Master
The Thailand Master is an atmospheric liveaboard offering dive trips to Thailand and Myanmar’s best-known diving areas, including the Similan Islands, Richelieu Rock and the Mergui Archipelago. The ship is a traditional 34-meter Indonesian phinisi and combines an authentic look with modern facilities for divers.
On board there is room for up to 18 guests, divided into seven cabins. Several cabin types are available: two cabins with twin beds, three cabins suitable as double cabins with double or twin beds and two spacious four-bed cabins. All cabins have individually controlled air conditioning, private bathroom, storage space and comfortable beds.
On the main deck is a cozy lounge with comfortable seating and a covered dining area where all meals are served. There is also a spacious sun deck with sun beds where you can relax between dives. Photographers are also at the right place on board thanks to dedicated camera charging points and plenty of space for equipment. The Thailand Master also features a spacious dive deck, nitrox facilities and multiple dive guides on board.
The chef prepares a daily combination of Thai dishes and Western meals using fresh, local ingredients. Meals are usually served buffet style and snacks, fruits and desserts are available between dives. Vegetarian and other dietary requirements can also be catered for.
The Master Liveaboards fleet is known worldwide for its professional service, comfortable ships and strong focus on divers. Thanks to experienced crews, well-organized itineraries and personal attention, Master Fleet ships are among the most popular liveaboards in multiple diving destinations worldwide.
Travel costs
What is included
This travel package is € 4.495 per person based on two people in one room. The trip can be extended as desired. A number of things are included by default in this travel package.
Prices are subject to price changes, increases or changing exchange rates. Flights are always based on the cheapest possible booking class.
Want to know more about the possibilities? Get in touch with us!
Included in this trip, from € 4.495 p.p.
- Liveaboard Thailand Master
- 10 nights in a classic twin/double cabin
- Accommodation on full board basis
- Tea, coffee, juices and soft drinks
- Dive package with up to 29 dives
- Round trip
- 2 nights in a Grand Deluxe room in Khao Lak
- 2 nights in a Deluxe room in Khao Sok
- 3 nights in a Superior Garden View room in Phuket
- Stay on a bed & breakfast basis
- Phi Phi island tour with speed bolt
- Khao Sok lake tour (boat trip & nature experience)
- General
- Return transfers
- VZR & Administration fee
Excluding
- Return flight Phuket from € 900 p.p.
- Marine Park Fee ( € 125
- Entrance fee Khao Sok (€ 5)
- Entrance fee Cheow Lan Lake (€ 8)
✈︎ The quoted (international) flight prices are indicative prices and based on departures from Europe. However, we can arrange flights from any location worldwide. Booking your own flights is of course also possible.
Optional
- Diving equipment ( € 231
- Nitrox ( € 266
- Beer (€ 2) and wine (€ 24 ) aboard the liveaboard
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Frequently asked questions about this diving holiday
Diving general
To take this trip, you must be at least Advanced Open Water certified, have some experience with current and have at least 10 logged dives.
Diving around the Similan and Surin Islands, Phuket and Koh Phi Phi is generally suitable for all divers. However, some dive sites are outside the depth limits for beginners or are subject to strong currents and waves, making them challenging or unsuitable for novice or inexperienced divers.
Dive sites range from rocky peaks and walls to sheltered bays and gently sloping coral reefs. Visibility ranges from 10 to 40+ meters, depending on location, tides and weather.
The marine life is equally varied and includes everything from tiny crabs and nudibranchs to whale sharks and manta rays.
Between 30 minutes and 2 hours of sailing. You really take day trips here, often leaving early and having lunch on the boat. This way you get the most out of your dive day and dive the more remote sites.
The maximum number per day is 4 dives. On some days you will make 4 dives, on other days 3. Of course, it always depends on the weather and conditions.
No, this is not offered
Yes you can, you can take SSI diving courses here. You can also learn to dive here!
Diving equipment
The tanks are DIN but INT adapters are available.
The tanks aboard the Thailand Master are 80cuft, equivalent to 11 liter tank. So the standard tank is slightly smaller than 12L.
No. However, there are 13L tanks (100 cuft). The additional cost for using this larger tank is 126 USD for the entire trip.
Yes, nitrox is available. The cost for the entire trip is 315 USD.
Yes you can. However, it is important to pass this on as soon as possible so that the correct measurements are available.
Renting a full kit (excluding dive computer and torch) are 270 USD for the entire trip. Renting a computer costs 90 USD and the cost of a torch is 45 USD for the entire trip.
Liveaboard
Yes, you can. The “Best of Thailand” itinerary is also sailed in 9 days, 8 nights. So you can choose whether you want a longer or shorter trip. With the 9-day trip you will make up to 21 dives, with the 11-day trip you will make up to 29 dives.
Online, starting prices are often shown first. This frequently concerns a shared four-person cabin, while in this trip we are assuming a double cabin with two twin beds or a double bed. Because of this, the price you see online may appear lower than the price in our travel proposal.
Are you traveling alone and don’t mind sharing a cabin with several people? Then of course we can also reserve a place in a four-person cabin for you, if available.
In addition, we always incorporate any liveaboard company promotions and discounts into our prices. So you are assured of the same available offers, combined with the extra service and support of EWDR.
The boat sails from Thap Lamu to Chalong and then from Chalong to Thap Lamu. So you sail from north to south or south to north.
So it’s also possible that during the week you want to take this trip, so you may have the program exactly reversed from how we’ve described it now.
No, there is no wifi or satellite internet available at the Thailand Master.
Cell phones with international roaming or a Thai SIM card and data package will allow you to stay connected throughout most of the liveaboard trip.
However, around the Similan and Surin Islands and the southernmost areas, the mobile network is limited and on some islands there is no coverage at all. Around the islands near Phuket and Koh Phi Phi, mobile coverage is reasonable, but somewhat variable.
Accommodation
Yes. In Khao Sok you are in the middle of nature and there is no WiFi. You also have less coverage with your phone there.
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