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Blog about diving in Burma and Thailand

Trip report from North - South Andaman 25 April - 2 May 2023

30/6/2023

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Trip report from North - South Andaman 25 April - 2 May 2023
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.
​
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.
Whirlwind of Fish on the Reef
Whirlwind of Fish on the Reef
Diver with a giant seafan
Diver with a giant seafan
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.
Then beautiful and eccentric ribbon eel
Then beautiful and eccentric ribbon eel
School of Yellow Snapper
School of Yellow Snapper
 ornate ghost pipefish
Ornate ghost pipefish
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.
Goby on moon coral
Goby on moon coral
The beautiful and cruel Harlequin shrimp
The beautiful and cruel Harlequin shrimp
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.
Cute baby fish in blackwater dive
Cute baby fish in blackwater dive
Baby squid in blackwater dive
Baby squid in blackwater dive
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.
Thecacera pacifica AKA PikachuPicture
Thecacera pacifica AKA Pikachu
Picture
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.
​
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.
Doriprismatica atromarginata
Doriprismatica atromarginata
Cleaner Shrimp close Urocaridella antonbruunii
Cleaner Shrimp close Urocaridella antonbruunii
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! 


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Camille Rovillain

Camille's love for travel and diving began in her mid-twenties, taking her across oceans and continents before she finally settled in Thailand. In 2012, she co-founded The Smiling Seahorse, driven by a desire to explore and share some of Southeast Asia’s most remote and unexplored dive destinations.
A proud mother of two, Camille still hops onboard The Smiling Seahorse every month. Passionate about macro life, she delights in guiding fellow enthusiasts on unforgettable dives across the Andaman Sea — from Myanmar’s Mergui Archipelago all the way to Thailand’s Malaysian border.

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  • TripAdvisor
Responsible Manta Tourism Operator
Picture
  • When & Where
    • Schedule and Prices
    • Destinations >
      • North Andaman Thailand >
        • Similan Islands
        • Surin Islands >
          • Richelieu Rock
        • The essential Underwater photo Guide to diving Thailand
      • South Andaman Thailand >
        • Phuket & Koh Phi Phi National Parks
        • Koh Lanta National Park
        • Koh Lipe and Tarutao National Park
      • Mergui Archipelago >
        • Liveaboard diving holiday in Myanmar
        • Burma's best dive sites
        • The Ultimate Underwater photo Guide to diving Burma
  • ABOUT
    • Our Boat >
      • Emergency equipments & procedures
      • DELICIOUS FOOD
    • Diving in Thailand in 2026-2027
    • Diving in Myanmar/Burma in 2026-2027
    • Blackwater diving in Thailand and Myannmar
    • Marine life in Thailand's Andaman Sea
    • Marine life in Mergui Archipelago
    • Dive Courses >
      • Learn to Dive
      • Continue diving education
      • Rescue diver
      • Professional Dive Courses
      • Hone your dive skills with a specialty course
      • Photo coaching in Thailand on the Smiling Seahorse
    • Guest Book
    • FAQ
  • Plan your trip
    • Our hotels recommendations
    • Khao Sok National Park
    • Taxi services >
      • Taxi services to and from Ranong
      • Taxi services to and from Phuket
      • Taxi services to Tap Lamu and Khao Lak
    • 10 things to do around Ranong
  • PROMO
    • HOT DEALS
    • * Special Expeditions >
      • 8D Mergui + Blackwater - 22nd Nov 2026 - BURMA
      • 2028- 8D Mergui + Blackwater - 12th Feb 2028
  • gallery
    • Photos
    • Videos
  • CONTACT
  • BLOG
    • Most popular posts