3. You get cold faster

For a diver, body heat loss is of significant concern. This is because in water, the body loses heat 25 times faster than in air. Alcohol is known to be a peripheral vasodilator; it makes blood vessels widen more than usual.  As blood flows into the dilated vessels, it withdraws heat from the core to surface of the body; although this may bring about a flush of warm feeling, it is short-lived and predisposes the body to hypothermia. Research conducted recently out of Canada indicates that nitrogen narcosis is responsible for delay in shiver response, an important indicator of a considerable heat loss from the body, alcohol is also known to depress the response; complicating the heat loss problem further.

4. Drunken effect of alcohol and depth combine: you're losing it

The danger imposed here is that a diver may be unable to deal with an emergency, something which may land the diver into an accident.
Have you heard of the “martini’s law”? It states that every 15 meters a diver descends is equivalent in effect to drinking a glass of Martini. And of course both alcohol and nitrogen narcosis combine.
It has been proven that drinking alcohol, even the night before a dive, can increase the probability of harmful nitrogen bubbles forming in the bloodstream.
 
 
5. Drink with moderation
 
Drinking during your dive cruise is not prohibited, but you should be careful and drink with moderation. Furthermore, it is always better to drink when you can have a full day of rest to fully enjoy your dives. It is important to remember that it can be difficult to recognize the effects of alcohol on your body, so stay alert!
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There are many species of trigger fish who belongs to the Balistidae family. They live in shallow water near coral reef except for the oceanic triggerfish (Canthidermis maculata) who's spend his life in the blue.

The most know, specially for his aggressive behavior against divers, is the Titan Triggerfish (Balistoides viridescens). They are in fact protecting their eggs.

​Female will lay their eggs few days before new and full moon after male and female will perform some prespawnings behavior like blowing and touching, to create their nest on sandy or rocky area. They will blow water to create a hole in the floor where the female will lays his eggs. The male will protect and defend the territory from any species swimming too close, and also from the other male triggerfish. Generally, a male will fecund the eggs of few females within his territory.

They are known to attack diver who are swimming too close to their nest, and a common diver mistake would be to escape them by shallowing up. Their territory is in a cone shape from the nest getting bigger while going up. So the good reaction would be to swim away horizontal to get out of their zone quickly, keeping our fins in the direction of the fish to avoid any harm.

Another good way to avoid any attack would be to observe their change of behavior.

​They would rise their dorsal fin first, then lean on one side as a last warning, then finally if we are getting even closer to them, they will swim towards us trying to bite whatever they can catch.
This generally happen only when they are keeping an eye on their eggs...

Another trigger fish we love is the clown triggerfish (Balistoides conspicillum) with its white dots on the lower part of the body and its yellow blotch on the back and the face.
​They are less common than the titan, the redtooth or the yellow margin, but still can be found in the archipelago.

The redtooth triggerfish (Odonus niger) live specially on our pinnacle and like when there is current.
​They will go and hide in cracks and little cavities to rest. They form school and eat mainly plankton.

The yellowmargin triggerfish (Pseudobalistes flavimarginatus) is also very common in the archipelago. It lives in coral reefs and can grow up to 60 cm.

Despite their somewhat comical appearance, frogfishes are actually quite skilled predators. They have a unique method of hunting that involves luring their prey close with a specialized appendage called an esca, which is located on the end of their snout. When a prey animal approaches the esca, the frogfish will quickly snatch it up with its powerful jaws.

1/ Did you know that frogfish get their name from the fact that they resemble frogs? They have unique pectoral fins with an "elbow-like" bend at the front and smaller pelvic fins that resemble legs. This is a characteristic common to all frogfish species.
2/ Another interesting fact about frogfish is that they have the fastest known bite in the animal kingdom, with a predatory strike speed of 1/6000th of a second. This makes their bite the fastest self-powered predatory strike in the animal kingdom, with mantis shrimp and seahorses coming in close behind...
3/ Inflation - Frogfish can inflate their body to startle predators. Frogfish do not have teeth and it swallows its prey in one piece. It can swallow the prey that is 2 times bigger than the fish itself thanks to ability to expand the mouth 12 times its normal size.

​In addition to their unusual appearance and behaviour, frogfishes are also popular among scuba divers due to the challenge to find them making them all the more attractive! If you are considering seeing a frogfish while diving, it is important to choose your guides carefully. Frogfishes come in a variety of colors and sizes. When searching for frogfishes, keep an eye out for unusual shapes and patterns on your dive. Look for lumps, bumps, and protrusions that may not be part of the surrounding environment. Frogfishes are also known to use their lure to attract prey, so keep an eye out for any movement that seems out of place.

Frogfishes make for excellent subjects for underwater photography, as their unique appearance and behavior make for captivating shots.
Here are some tips to keep in mind to ensure you capture the best shots.

• When taking underwater photographs of frogfish, patience is crucial. Avoid touching, poking or disturbing them as they are likely to carry on with their natural behavior, providing great opportunities for capturing stunning shots.
• The choice of lens will depend on the size of the frogfish, ranging from 105mm to 10.5mm. However, most mid-range lenses are suitable for capturing these fascinating creatures, and even a compact camera can deliver excellent results.
• For intricate details of their camouflage pattern, side lighting is recommended. 
  Inward-facing strobe positioning is ideal for creating a black background behind the frogfish, even with only a few inches of open water. Leave enough space in the frame to be prepared for capturing unique behavior shots, such as the frogfish using its lure or yawning.
• Locking the focus is useful for capturing rapid-fire photos or when photographing black objects, while using a shallow depth of field can create a beautiful bokeh in the background, helping to highlight the frogfish against its surroundings.

In conclusion, frogfishes are a true wonder of the underwater world. By following these tips, you can spot, photograph, and appreciate their beauty and charm. So, the next time you're on a dive trip, keep an eye out for these quirky creatures and be prepared to be mesmerised!

The Andaman Sea in Thailand and Myanmar is a paradise for divers enthusiasts, boasting a diverse ecosystem that is home to an array of captivating marine life. Among the majestic creatures that roam these waters, sharks hold a special place in the hearts of many... 
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In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of sharks that you can encounter in the Andaman Sea...

1. Leopard Sharks (Stegostoma fasciatum):

2. Whitetip Reef Sharks (Triaenodon obesus)

4. ​Nurse Sharks (Nebrius ferrugineus)

9. Whale Sharks (Rhincodon typus)

The vast oceans are home to a multitude of captivating and unique creatures, and among them are the enigmatic sea snakes. These serpentine reptiles have adapted to life in marine environments and are renowned for their remarkable features. In this blog post, we will delve into the intriguing world of sea snakes and explore their fascinating characteristics.
 
Sea snakes belong to two subfamilies, Hydrophiinae (true sea snakes) and Laticaudinae (sea krait, who are semiaquatic).
 
In Thailand and Myanmar we have the chance to encounter regularly representatives of these two families: 

Yes! while surrounded by (sea) water, Sea snakes can die of thirst.
While they live in the oceans, sea snakes cannot extract fresh water from the saline sea. Kraits may drink water from land or the sea surface, but True sea snakes (while they have teh ability to expel part of the salt they ingest) must wait for rain to drink the relatively fresh water floating on the sea's surface.

Sea snakes are extremely venomous creatures (their bite will create quite a lot of damage), however, they are not considered aggressive towards humans and will only bite if they feel threatened or provoked.
 
It's important to maintain a respectful distance and avoid handling or disturbing these fascinating creatures if encountered in their natural habitat. The same apply to all underwater creatures: Do not touch!
The same caution should be exercised with snakes found washed up on beaches. Snakes may feign death as a defense mechanism, and even a deceased or decapitated snake can still reflexively bite.
 
Survival tip: In the event of being stranded at sea, it is possible to consume sea snakes for sustenance. They are not poisonous (ie: can be eaten) but to survive, you better avoid getting bitten!

True sea snakes are skilled predators that primarily consume small fish, fish eggs, and young octopuses. These sea snakes can be active either during the day or at night, displaying versatility in their feeding habits. On the other hand, sea kraits are nocturnal feeders that primarily target eels as their preferred prey. They supplement their diet with crabs, squid, and fish they find while exploring the reef and crevices.
 
While there have been no observations of sea kraits feeding on land, we know that they do return to land to facilitate the digestion of their prey.
In their natural habitat, sea snakes face predation from eels, sharks, rays and other large fish.

In summary, while reptiles, including sea snakes, generally lay eggs, they employ different methods of hatching. Viviparous species, like yellow-bellied sea snakes, give birth to live young after internal development and maternal nourishment. Oviparous species, such as sea kraits, lay eggs externally, and the embryos develop inside the eggs with nutrients from the yolk sac until they hatch independently.

Brace yourselves for an extraordinary journey into the depths of the ocean aboard The MV Smiling Seahorse. Get ready to embark on an awe-inspiring underwater adventure where you'll have the chance to encounter an array of remarkable marine life, including these superstars of the sea: sea snakes!

Guests: America, China, Switzerland, Taiwan, Andorra, Spain, Norway, New Zealand, Canada, Luxembourg, Bulgaria, Germany.
Our North and South Andaman cruise embarked on a week-long journey filled with exploration, adventure, and a delightful mix of guests from around the globe. From April 25th to May 2nd, 2023, we set sail from Tap Lamu pier, eager to uncover the captivating underwater wonders that awaited us.
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Surrounded by an international camaraderie, we began our expedition with a remarkable start. The first day brought us to the renowned Surin National Park, where the marine world welcomed us with open arms. Delving into the turquoise waters, we were greeted by the mesmerizing sight of Kulh's stingrays gliding gracefully across the sandy seabed. The garden eels and vibrant fish added to the vibrant tapestry of marine life. With exceptional visibility, the underwater realm unfolded before our eyes, revealing its true magnificence.

Next on our itinerary was the legendary Richelieu Rock, a destination that left us in awe. This submerged pinnacle proved to be a cornucopia of marine diversity. As we descended into its depths, we were surrounded by an abundance of life. Schools of fish in all shapes, sizes, and colors, ghost pipefishes hiding among the soft and hard corals, and the regal presence of Harlequin Shrimps captivated our senses. Everywhere we turned, glass fishes twinkled in the sunlight, creating an ethereal spectacle that will forever be etched in our memories.

To our esteemed guests, we hope you thoroughly enjoyed the trip and experienced unforgettable moments. Your presence and enthusiasm added an extra layer of joy to our adventure. We extend our sincere gratitude to each of you for choosing The Smiling Seahorse as your gateway to the wonders of the Andaman Sea.

Continuing our journey south through the archipelago, we arrived at the Similan National Park. The second day was spent exploring the vibrant dive sites of Koh Tachai and Koh Bon followed by the wonders of Three Trees, Elephant Head Rock, and West of Eden, treating us to four exhilarating dives, including an enchanting night dive.

​Our encounters with turtles, lobsters, barracudas, trevallies, fusiliers, and the delicate beauty of Spanish dancer eggs added to the tapestry of marine life we witnessed.
The blackwater dive that night added an extra touch of intrigue, revealing the mysterious creatures that inhabit the depths of the sea.

The following days we crossed over to the South Andaman Sea starting with Hin Daeng and Hin Muang. These dive sites in the Koh Lanta National Park offered a different perspective, emphasizing macro marvels and showcasing a plethora of nudibranchs and crustaceans as well as a cool albeit grumpy Stone fish. The rich biodiversity hidden within the coral reefs was a testament to the delicate balance of nature.

As we ventured further, the stunning coral reefs of Tarutao National Park near the pretty Koh Lipe island captivated our senses. The impressive underwater landscapes dazzled us, offering glimpses into a thriving marine ecosystem.
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Our journey culminated in the enchanting Phi Phi Islands and Shark Point. Here, we encountered the graceful blacktip reef sharks, alongside a multitude of beautiful nudibranchs and flatworms. The marine life surrounding us was a testament to the splendor and diversity that the Andaman Sea has to offer.

We split ways in Phuket with hearts full of gratitude, reminiscing about the extraordinary marine encounters and the shared moments of awe and wonder. To our esteemed guests, we express our deepest appreciation for joining us on this extraordinary adventure. The memories we have created together will forever be treasured.

We hope you all enjoyed the trip and had an amazing time with us.
Thank you for choosing The Smilling Seahorse! 

This week we welcomed a very eclectic group of divers from Canada, Hong Kong, Thailand, America, Taiwan, France and Australia.

This North Andaman cruise stared in Tap Lamu pier for an unforgettable adventure. With anticipation and excitement, we embarked on an overnight journey to the stunning Surin National Park, eager to explore its bountiful underwater wonders.
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As we arrived at the Surin National Park, the anticipation reached its peak. As soon as the buddy check was done, we plunged into the azure waters, ready to discover the hidden treasures beneath the surface. Our first dive proved to be as enchanting as we had imagined. The sandy bottom revealed graceful stingrays gliding effortlessly, while an abundance of colourful fish painted the scene with vibrant hues.

Navigating through the Surin Islands, we were greeted by a mesmerizing display of marine life. Richelieu Rock, known for its thriving ecosystem, beckoned us with its allure. Submerged in its depths, we were greeted by a spectacle beyond compare. Schools of fish danced around us, their synchronized movements a testament to the marvels of nature. Witnessing their hunting behavior was a breathtaking experience, as they darted and weaved with precision and grace.
Amidst this underwater symphony, our cameras captured the beauty of Harlequin shrimps. Their intricate patterns and vivid colors were a true delight to behold. These small but fascinating creatures offered us an opportunity to freeze these magical moments in time, capturing their essence through photography.

After the Surin, we headed south towards the Similan National park, which granted us access to the captivating world beneath the waves but also provided an immersive encounter with its rich marine biodiversity and delivered an adventure filled with awe and appreciation for the Earth's delicate ecosystems.

Additionally, we are thrilled to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Laurent and Budd, who took part in our advanced open water courses. Their dedication and hard work were evident throughout the journey as they delved deeper into the realm of scuba diving. Their enthusiasm to learn more about the sport and their commitment to gaining advanced certifications is a great achievement in their scuba diver life!
We applaud their achievements and encourage them to continue their journey of exploration and discovery in the fascinating world of underwater exploration.

As we bid farewell to the North Andaman cruise, we carry with us cherished memories. This journey was an affirmation of the beauty that lies beneath the surface, reminding us of the need to protect and preserve these marine habitats for generations to come.
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Thank you all guests for choosing The Smilling Seahorse. Hope you all had a wonderful and enjoyed the trip.