DIVE
THAILAND
NORTH ANDAMAN
5 DAYS DIVING LIVEABOARD
AVAILABLE OCTOBER - MAY
Open Water+
10+ Logged dives
Blackwater dive
Nitrox available
5 days in the North Andaman from Ranong to Ranong
Best of Thailand Dive Cruise: Surin, Similan and Richelieu Rock
Day 1
Embarkation and Departure
Embarkation and Departure
- 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm: Meet at our dive center for check-in at 170 Ruangrat Road, Ranong.
- A free shared transfer to the boat will be available from Ranong at around 4:00 pm.
- It is also possible to be picked up on Koh Phayam at around 7:00 pm.
- Shortly after sunset, we will hold a departure ceremony to officially launch our voyage.
- Then it’s time to enjoy your first delicious meal on board before settling in for the night and being gently rocked to sleep by the waves.
Days 2 to 4
Exploration and Diving
Exploration and Diving
- Time to dive! We will do 4 dives per day around the Surin Islands, Similan Islands and Richelieu Rock.
- After each dive, a meal or snack will be served to help you regain your energy before your next immersion.
Day 5
Final Dives and Return to Ranong
Final Dives and Return to Ranong
- For our final day of diving, we will return to Richelieu Rock.
- We will make 2 dives before beginning our journey back to Ranong. Our final dive will finish no later than 12:00 pm (midday).
- We expect to arrive in Ranong around 8:00 pm.
- A drop-off at Koh Phayam will also be possible at around 6:00 pm.
✈️ Important
Our final dive will finish no later than 12:00 pm (midday). Don't forget to allow at least 24 hours between your last dive and your flight!
What will you see on the dive sites we will visit...
Our itinerary takes us to some of the best dive sites in the North Andaman Sea. The exact route and number of dives at each site may vary depending on weather, sea conditions, and currents.
Day 2: Surin Islands & Richelieu Rock
Surin Islands
The Surin Islands are not visited by as many dive boats as some of Thailand’s other destinations, making them a fantastic place to enjoy a more peaceful diving experience.
The area is particularly rewarding for macro lovers, with excellent chances of finding ghost pipefish, frogfish, and nudibranchs among the reefs and soft corals.
The Surin Islands are also one of the first places on our itinerary where we may encounter whale sharks and manta rays.
We will start our day at Koh Chi, in the northern part of the Surin Islands, and gradually make our way towards the southern part of the archipelago.
There are plenty of opportunities to encounter Jenkins’ stingrays, Napoleon wrasse, sweetlips, barracudas, humphead parrotfish, manta rays, eagle rays, and zebra sharks, along with a huge variety of colourful tropical fish.
Richelieu Rock
Richelieu Rock is regularly ranked among the top 10 dive sites in the world—and once you dive here, you will quickly understand why!
This spectacular pinnacle can be described as a giant underwater aquarium, with an incredible variety of marine life packed into a relatively small area.
From seahorses to schools of jacks and barracudas, there is always something happening around the rock. And if you are lucky, you may even encounter the star of the show: the whale shark!
Richelieu Rock is also a true paradise for underwater photographers, particularly those who love macro life.
Look carefully among the soft corals and sea fans for a spectacular variety of small creatures, including seahorses, pipefish, ghost pipefish, harlequin shrimp, frogfish, and nudibranchs in all shapes and colours.
Day 3: Koh Tachai & Koh Bon
Koh Tachai Pinnacle
At Koh Tachai Pinnacle, we usually enjoy a very fishy dive, with large schools of barracuda, trevallies, sweetlips, and batfish filling the blue.
The pinnacle is also a great place to keep an eye out for larger marine life, including whale sharks, turtles, manta rays, reef sharks, and Napoleon wrasse.
Koh Bon
At Koh Bon, we will usually make 2 dives – one along the famous ridge and another around Koh Bon Pinnacle.
Koh Bon is one of Thailand’s best-known cleaning stations for manta rays, and it is one of the places where we have some of the best chances of encountering these magnificent animals.
There is also a good chance of spotting a zebra shark resting on the sandy areas around the pinnacle.
From the boat, you will also enjoy beautiful views of idyllic islands covered in lush green forests and surrounded by white sandy beaches.
Underwater, visibility is often excellent. Keep your eyes open for leopard sharks, blue-spotted stingrays, schools of snappers and fusiliers, emperor fish, clown triggerfish, and colourful tropical fish.
The rocky areas are also home to moray eels, turtles, and mantis shrimps.
And, of course, whale sharks can also be encountered in the area—so remember to look behind you from time to time for a gentle giant passing overhead!
Day 4: Southern Similan Islands
We will continue our exploration with dives at West of Eden, Elephant Head Rock, and Three Trees. In the evening, we will do a Blackwater dive or a night dive at Koh Bon.
Day 5: Richelieu Rock
On the last day of the trip, we will return to the infamous Richelieu Rock for 2 dives, finishing the cruise on a high note before beginning our journey back to Ranong.
Blackwater dive
All cruises aboard the MV Smiling Seahorse, weather permitting, offer the opportunity to experience the incredible Blackwater Diving in the Andaman Sea.
If you’ve never experienced this unique style of offshore night diving, don’t worry! Before your first Blackwater dive, our team will give you a full presentation and safety briefing to explain what to expect and how to enjoy this unforgettable experience safely.
Logistics
✈️ 24-hour no-fly period
Please remember that you must allow at least 24 hours between your last dive and your flight. Our final dive usually finishes around 12:00 am.
For the latest flight schedules, check AirAsia.
🚌 Bus to Bangkok
You can also travel back to Bangkok by bus. The bus departs around 8:00 pm and arrives in Bangkok at approximately 5:00 am the following morning.
Please note: This itinerary is provided as a sample and may be modified by The Smiling Seahorse depending on the weather forecast, sea and diving conditions, or other unforeseen circumstances.
Thailand North Andaman Sea
Surin Islands · Similan Islands · Richelieu Rock
5 Days / 4 Nights · 14 Dives
Departure
Ranong at 4:00 PM
Return
Ranong at approximately 8:00 PM
Explore the incredible dive sites of Thailand's North Andaman Sea aboard our purpose-built liveaboard.
Price Per Diver
Prices valid from January 2026
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Standard Cabin
Air-conditioned | Shared bathroom | Twin or double bed
Deluxe Cabin
Air-conditioned | Ensuite bathroom | Twin or double bed
Master Cabin
Air-conditioned | Ensuite bathroom | Double bed
* Prices are listed per diver based on double occupancy.
Payment
• 30% deposit at the time of booking
• Remaining 70% balance due two months prior to departure
What’s included?
- Full accommodation and full board, including:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Afternoon snacks
- Dinner
- All soft drinks, drinking water, fresh coffee, and tea
- Fresh fruit, yogurt, and snacks available all day
- 12L scuba tank, weights, and weight belt
- Free 1 Blackwater dive
- PADI Professional Dive Guide, with a maximum of 4 divers per guide
- Up to 14 dives
- Towels and reef-friendly amenities
What’s not included?
Thailand National Parks Fees
- * 2,200 THB / diver * subject to government’s change
Required
If you do not have your own:
Personal Insurance
General travel insurance is highly recommended.Dive computer rental: 300 THB/day
Equipment rental: 600 THB/day
Optional Extras
Extra Blackwater dive: 1,000 THB/person
Nitrox: 250 THB/tank or 2,900 THB for the whole cruise
15L tank: 300 THB/day or 1,200 THB for the whole cruise
Private guide: 4,000 THB/day
Other Costs
Transfers: Transfers to and from the boat are available on demand.
Alcoholic drinks and cigarettes
Gratuities / tips: A tip of 1,000 THB/day/person is common practice.
Ready for your dream diving holiday? Check our availability and book your adventure today!
EXCELLENT
Based on 93 reviews
Posted on Google![]()
Magda KapustaTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
My diving cruise with The Smiling Seahorse was absolutely fantastic from start to finish. Everything was extremely well organized and seamless, making the entire vacation completely stress-free and enjoyable. The crew was exceptional — professional, friendly, attentive, and always making sure everyone felt comfortable and safe. The food was amazing throughout the trip, with great variety and quality at every meal. The boat itself is excellent: very comfortable, well maintained, and thoughtfully designed for divers. The cabins are spacious and comfortable, and the common areas are very well organized, giving everyone plenty of space to relax between dives. What truly made the experience unforgettable was the incredible selection of dive spots. Every dive offered something special, with beautiful marine life, stunning coral reefs, and perfectly planned itineraries. Overall, this was a full enjoyment vacation and one of the best liveaboard experiences I’ve had. I highly recommend The Smiling Seahorse to anyone looking for a perfectly organized diving adventure with a fantastic crew and unforgettable diving.Posted on Google![]()
Laura ForsythTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Another vote for the Smiling Seahorse - it's a very good boat. Purpose built for serious diving, the thought and care put into it by its owner and crew really shows. Everything you need is available, easy to access, well maintained and functional, without anything extraneous or funky. There is a devotion to diving, to underwater photography, to the marine life, to the history and natural history of the Similan Islands and Burma, to the guest experience and developing our skills. Our group did the week-long South to North Andaman Sea trip in January 2026, and each day was better than the one before. The diving is exceptional, with healthy corals and masses and masses of fish, even before we got to the climax of Richelieu Rock. They include an black water dive on each trip, a truly unique opportunity. We received tremendous support from the dive guides and the crew alike, who gracefully and respectfully accommodated everyone's needs. Even the little things - one of the deck crew noticed that the little strap connecting the dust cap to my regulator was close to breaking off and offered to repair it. He did a beautiful job and I'll be reminded of his generosity and kindness each time I dive that reg. Our guide, James, has years of experience, like many masters, conveyed his knowledge with simplicity and clarity (and humor - whew!). I became a better diver following his example. I keep remembering the happy anticipation of standing at the stern, all kitted up, waiting for the captain's signal to jump. Next trip - Burma. The cabins are simple and comfortable, although you may want to bring a pad if you're not a fan of firm beds. A/C and hot water in each cabin - all good. Everyone in our group, from the experts with many thousands of dives to the recently certified, to a couple of non-diving spouses, loved the Smiling Seahorse!Posted on Google![]()
Nadine FischerTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We had an amazing time on the Smiling Seahorse liveaboard in Thailand. Everything was well organized, relaxed, and very professional. Our dive guide Julien was fantastic. He showed us beautiful dive sites and even pointed out tiny nudibranchs we would never have seen ourselves. His eye for detail made every dive special. The food was excellent, and the crew was incredibly friendly and helpful, especially when assisting with dive gear. Overall, a wonderful experience – It was our 2nd trip and we will definitely come again!Posted on Google![]()
Udi NehabTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
An Unforgettable Week Underwater! I just wrapped up a phenomenal week-long liveaboard trip in the Similan Islands with The Smiling Seahorse team, and I cannot recommend them enough. The dives were absolutely gorgeous, but what really set the experience apart was Julian’s amazing spotting skills—he has an incredible eye and made sure we didn't miss a thing. The entire crew was attentive, professional, and always right there to assist with all of our needs, making the whole week completely seamless. On top of the world-class diving, the food was fantastic. Everything was incredibly tasty, and they offered a great variety of dishes that really hit the spot after a long day in the water. Five stars across the board—if you're looking for a top-tier liveaboard operation, this is the team to go with!Posted on Google![]()
Tsachi YeshurunTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I went for a 9 day dive safari in Myanmar, the mergui archipelago, with the smiling seahorse. One of the unique experiences I had. My first (and second and third) Blackwater dive, dives I will never forget. The staff are wonderful, the dive guides are amazing, they actually care and put in a lot of extra effort and the ship crew were helpful and nice. I dove with Julian, the dive master, who I would dive with anywhere anytime, and we enjoyed the presence of camille, the owner, who lit up the place with her positive energies. I've been on fancier boats, but I enjoyed this one much better.Posted on Google![]()
Lee WaggenerTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Safe, clean, friendly staff always willing to help, easy on and off the boat, good dive sites. Guides are awesome. The dive crew very accommodating. Nice camera room. Keep the same tank entire trip. Some sites we went in small groups in a dingy. The return the dingy would slowly pull you back. Thankful we did nit have to struggle getting back in the dingy Some times we would just float back to the boat. We were divided into groups so everyone wasn’t getting ready at the same time. Plenty of food and snacks. Only complaint is the chairs and beds are hard as cement. Compared to the good stuff that was nothing. I would for sure go again.Posted on Google![]()
Ray BusardTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We did seven days on the Smiling Seahorse level over. The crew the boat everything was amazing. The divers did 20+ dives and as a snooker we did four snorkels, which was totally unexpected and so delightful. Took us to some of the best Dive spots in the world and the pictures proved that’s true. The food on board was over the top!! I would recommend this trip to anybody around the world!Posted on Google![]()
ליאור ארדTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I just returned from a week-long liveaboard with the club, and the experience was simply outstanding. The entire team demonstrated high professionalism throughout, with in-depth safety briefings and modern, well-maintained equipment. A special thanks to our amazing dive guides: James, Velika, Katie, and Mint. Each of them brought great energy and uncompromising expertise. Thanks to them, we felt in safe hands during every dive, and they knew exactly how to lead us to the most beautiful spots in the pristine sites we visited. The boat was very comfortable, and the excellent food between dives rounded out the experience perfectly. This is without a doubt a top-tier diving club, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a week of peace and world-class diving!"Posted on Google![]()
Itai StadlerTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
An outstanding liveaboard experience from start to finish. The hospitality on The Smiling Seahorse is truly exceptional — warm, attentive, and genuine, making you feel welcome and taken care of at every moment. The dive sites were beautiful and well chosen, offering a great variety and excellent conditions. Each dive felt thoughtfully planned to maximize both safety and enjoyment. What really sets this liveaboard apart is the extraordinary professionalism of the crew and dive instructors. Their experience, calm approach, and attention to detail were evident throughout the trip. Briefings were clear and thorough, underwater guidance was excellent, and safety was always the top priority — without ever taking away from the fun. Highly recommended for anyone looking for high-quality diving combined with top-level service and professionalism. I would gladly dive with them again.Posted on Google![]()
Yossie BarTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
It was amazing!!! Katie the diving guide is absolutely magnificent, friendly, crazy in a good way... The team is just extraordinary! Humble, helping wherever they can, the food is delicious and also satisfying, the boys helps greatly every time you come up from a dive... The guides are funny and resourceful... It was really just a perfect time.
EXCELLENT
Based on 227 reviews
Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
Magda KVerified
Fantastic ! My diving cruise with The Smiling Seahorse was absolutely fantastic from start to finish. Everything was extremely well organized and seamless, making the entire vacation completely stress-free and enjoyable. The crew was exceptional — professional, friendly, attentive, and always making sure everyone felt comfortable and safe. The food was amazing throughout the trip, with great variety and quality at every meal. The boat itself is excellent: very comfortable, well maintained, and thoughtfully designed for divers. The cabins are spacious and comfortable, and the common areas are very well organized, giving everyone plenty of space to relax between dives. What truly made the experience unforgettable was the incredible selection of dive spots. Every dive offered something special, with beautiful marine life, stunning coral reefs, and perfectly planned itineraries. Overall, this was a full enjoyment vacation and one of the best liveaboard experiences I’ve had. I highly recommend The Smiling Seahorse to anyone looking for a perfectly organized diving adventure with a fantastic crew and unforgettable diving.Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
ScenicPathVerified
A well-run boat with a fantastic crew and dive staff - highly recommended! Another vote for the Smiling Seahorse - a very good boat. Purpose built for serious diving, the thought and care put into it by its owner and crew really shows. Everything you need is available, easy to access, well maintained and functional, without anything extraneous or funky. There is a devotion to diving, to underwater photography, to the marine life, to the history and natural history of the Similan Islands and Burma, to the guest experience and developing our skills. Our group did the week-long South to North Andaman Sea trip in January 2026, and each day was better than the one before. The diving is exceptional, with healthy corals and masses and masses of fish, even before we got to the climax of Richelieu Rock. They include an black water dive on each trip, a truly unique opportunity. We received tremendous support from the dive guides and the crew alike, who gracefully and respectfully accommodated everyone's needs. Even the little things - one of the deck crew noticed that the little strap connecting the dust cap to my regulator was close to breaking off and offered to repair it. He did a beautiful job and I'll be reminded of his generosity and kindness each time I dive that reg. Our guide, James, has years of experience, like many masters, conveyed his knowledge with simplicity and clarity (and humor - whew!). I became a better diver following his example. I keep remembering the happy anticipation of standing at the stern, all kitted up, waiting for the captain's signal to jump. Next trip - Burma. The cabins are simple and comfortable, although you may want to bring a pad if you're not a fan of firm beds. A/C and hot water in each cabin - all good. Everyone in our group, from the experts with many thousands of dives to the recently certified, to a couple of non-diving spouses, loved the Smiling Seahorse!Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
izacassiaVerified
Best scuba diving Safari in Thailand These guys are incredible! 7 days of diving from the south to the north of the Andaman Sea. The staff are incredibly helpful and the food and atmosphere was great. Special thanks to Velika, our guide, that showed us many sea creatures from the micro (picachu) to the large (white tip shark). It was an adventure! Highly recommended.Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
yiftah sVerified
The smiling seahorse experience Amazing crew, beautiful dives and unbelievable atmosphere... Had the best two weeks of my life! ❤️❤️❤️Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
Udi NVerified
An Unforgettable Week Underwater! I just wrapped up a phenomenal week-long liveaboard trip in the Similan Islands with The Smiling Seahorse team, and I cannot recommend them enough. The dives were absolutely gorgeous, but what really set the experience apart was Julian’s amazing spotting skills—he has an incredible eye and made sure we didn't miss a thing. The entire crew was attentive, professional, and always right there to assist with all of our needs, making the whole week completely seamless. On top of the world-class diving, the food was fantastic. Everything was incredibly tasty, and they offered a great variety of dishes that really hit the spot after a long day in the water. Five stars across the board—if you're looking for a top-tier liveaboard operation, this is the team to go with!Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
Alon kedarVerified
מעל ומבר צללתי אתם באירגון של buddy divers היה נפלא מעל ומעבר לציפיות. הארגון היה מעולה, הצוות מקצועי, תומך ועוזר כל הדרך מלבישת הסנפירים לפני ועד עזרה בכל צורך. תודה גדולה למדריכת צלילה בשם ג׳וי היה נהדר. אלוןPosted on Tripadvisor![]()
Oren KVerified
Wonderful experience with the Smiling Seahorse After 9 wonderful days of a diving safari in Myanmar on the Smiling Seahorse liveaboard, I have to say that it’s been a long time since I’ve come across people who are so professional at what they do. The dive guide team is top notch! The crew that takes care of the boat and the diving equipment is extremely professional, always thinking about every single detail and showing endless care for the guests. The boat feels very homely and warm, and it’s especially well suited for underwater photographers. Simply pure pleasure incredible diving, warmth, and love for the guests both above and below the water. Oren KidronPosted on Tripadvisor![]()
עדי אVerified
Don’t miss this liveaboard trip! The trip was amazing! I had so much fun and I really didn’t want it to end. Velica my guide was the nicest, so caring and professional and fun to dive with, and made me feel very safe. All the stuff was very friendly, professional and personal, and made the whole experience something I’ll never forget. The boat was comfortable and clean, the food was delicious, and the overall vibe on board was relaxed and fun. Beautiful dive sites and amazing dives. I highly recommend it for anyone looking for an unforgettable diving adventure. I would definitely dive with them again!Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
Yossie FeldmanVerified
Amazing experience, go!!! It was amazing!!! Katie the diving guide is absolutely magnificent, friendly, crazy in a good way... The team is just extraordinary! Humble, helping wherever they can, the food is delicious and also satisfying, the boys helps greatly every time you come up from a dive... The guides are funny and resourceful... It was really just a perfect time.Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
Are RVerified
Amazing company to go diving with. They picked us up at Koh Phayam even though they are based in Ranong, and helped us organize our transport onwards from Ranong after the trip. James organizes everything with a steady hand and a twinkle in the eye. You will not be bored during briefings on the smiling sea horse. Our guide, Veli Ka, was just amazing as well. So full of knowledge and safe and fun to dive with. All the crew were really nice - seems like a great work environment. The boat itself was really comfortable with a big lounge, sun deck, AC rooms with private bathrooms. Not crowded at all. The food was mouth watering as well. 5 stars!
















