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. 

Preserving Fragile Reef Ecosystems:
Coral reefs are among the most diverse and vibrant ecosystems on the planet, supporting a vast array of marine life. These underwater wonderlands are not only visually stunning but also crucial for coastal protection, as they act as natural barriers against storms and erosion. However, reefs are facing severe threats from pollution, overfishing, and climate change. Engaging in reef clean-ups helps remove harmful debris and waste, reducing the risk of entanglement or ingestion for marine species and allowing the reefs to flourish.

Protecting Pristine Beaches:
Beaches are the gateway to the ocean, where many people experience their first connection with the marine environment. Clean beaches not only provide a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors, but also play a vital role in supporting coastal ecosystems. By participating in beach clean-ups, we prevent harmful substances from entering the ocean, safeguarding the habitat for shorebirds, turtles, and countless other marine creatures. It also helps maintain the natural beauty that attracts tourists and supports local economies.

Ripple Effects of Individual Actions:
It's easy to underestimate the impact of our individual actions, but they can create powerful ripples of change. Participating in local clean-up initiatives may seem small, but it raises awareness and inspires others to take action. Every piece of trash picked up is one less item harming our oceans. By spreading the word about the importance of reef and beach clean-ups, we can mobilize communities, governments, and businesses to adopt more sustainable practices, leading to long-term positive change.

Encouraging Sustainable Practices:
Clean-ups are not just about removing existing pollution; they are about changing behaviors and preventing future harm. By engaging in these activities, we highlight the need for responsible waste management, recycling, and reducing single-use plastic consumption. Through education and community involvement, we can inspire people to make conscious choices in their daily lives, minimizing their impact on the oceans and the planet as a whole.

Conclusion:
World Ocean Day serves as a powerful reminder that our actions today shape the future of our oceans. Reef and beach clean-ups are essential steps toward preserving these fragile ecosystems, and every small contribution counts. By coming together and taking responsibility for our actions, we can create a positive impact on a global scale. Let us embrace the power of collective action, encouraging sustainable practices and nurturing a deep appreciation for the beauty and importance of our oceans. Remember, every little help can make a significant difference in safeguarding our reefs and beaches for generations to come.

And you? What have you done today to celebrate World Ocean day?

Ahoy! Me hearties! Get ready for a diving adventure reprot that will make your heart skip a beat!

The MV Smiling Seahorse has just taken off on an 8-day trip, cruising from the southern border with Malaysia to the northern border with Myanmar. We welcomed 14 guests from different corners of the world, all eager to explore the Andaman coast of Thailand with us. From Canada to Australia, everyone was thrilled to dive into the deep blue and witness the breathtaking marine life of Thailand.

Our first day kicked off in Mu Ko Lanta National Park, where we encountered an array of stunning sea creatures. We saw stonefish, mantis spearing fish, batfish, and even huge tuna swimming around the dive sites. As we explored the park, we learned that Ko Lanta was once known as "Pulao Satak," which means "Long Beach Island" in Malay. Later, many Thais, both Buddhist and Muslim, moved to the island making the island known as the island of "a million eyes" ("lan ta" in Thai).

Mu Ko Lanta National Park (Thai: อุทยานแห่งชาติหมู่เกาะลันตา) is a national park in the southern part of Krabi Province, Thailand, consisting of several islands, beautiful beaches and diverse marine life, it's no wonder people from all over the world flock to this destination.

On the second day, we ventured to Tarutao National Park and 8 Miles Rock for the first 2 dives, where we witnessed schools of fish hanging in the split of the current and huge trevallis! The famous Stonehenge saw our divers in the afternoon. it is such a stunning site with soft and hard coral mixing perfectly with barrel sponges and all types of anemone and we got super lucky meeting this cool fish: bearded leatherjacket (photo top left). Truly one of the weirdest fish you can encounter on a dive. With its distinct, tough-looking appearance and rough skin, this fish is truly a sight to behold. The bearded leatherjacket (Anacanthus barbatus) is typically found in rocky reefs and kelp beds in the southern hemisphere, and can grow up to 60cm in length. Despite its tough apparence, it's actually quite friendly and curious, often swimming up to divers to check them out. So if you're lucky enough to spot a bearded leatherjacket on your next dive, take a moment to appreciate this amazing creature!

A lot of people know Koh Lipe but don't know it is part of the Tarutao National Park with hundreds of small islands scattered from 20 to 70 kilometres from the south-westernmost point of mainland Thailand. 

Another exciting experiences we had on the trip was to take two blackwater dives. Pelagic nudibranchs, flounders, and pelagic snake hanging out with a remora in the darkness were all part of the fun! 

After lipe we went back west passing a day through Lanta National park again to dive more amazing dive sites around Koh Haa and then crossed overnight to the Similan islands where we leisurely explored Southern islands for a day and the northern islands for the second day.

Koh Bon and Koh Tachai are two very popular dive sites in the North of the Similans and had us spellbound: The schools of glass fish were so dense that it was difficult to see through them and the hunting trevalli were coming from everywhere at the same time for the feast!

The next day we were thrilled to stay around the great pinnacle of Richelieu Rock in the Surin National Park for the whole day. The photographer among us had a hard time deciding between their macro or wide-angle lens due to the abundance of marine life big and small!