Diving the Burmese Islands: Discover Myanmar's Newest Dive Destination
“Authored by experts in scuba diving cruises to the Mergui Archipelago and the Burma Banks.”
Diving around Burmese islands: a new dive destination in Myanmar.
Bawei Mergui Archipelago
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If you're looking for the most unique diving experience in Myanmar, the Mergui Archipelago is the ultimate destination. These pristine waters, closed to the public until 1997, remain largely unexplored—offering some of the most untouched and undiscovered dive sites in the world. With stunning underwater landscapes featuring caves, soft and hard coral, and an abundance of marine wildlife, this is truly world-class diving like you've never experienced before.
Myanmar’s Mergui Archipelago boasts over 800 islands scattered across 12,000 square kilometers of crystal-clear waters, offering an off-the-beaten-path diving experience unlike any other. Opened to tourism only recently, these pristine waters remain largely unexplored, with just a few boats navigating the area. Most of the islands are uninhabited, except for the Moken people, also known as the Burmese sea gypsies. |
Divers flock to the Mergui Archipelago to explore its mysterious waters. The area is dominated by limestone formations with countless caves and tunnels, as well as granite pinnacles surrounded by vibrant coral reefs of every imaginable color. Just 125 km off the coast of Kawthaung, the Burma Banks—a remote collection of undersea mountains—lie hidden beneath the depths of international waters, waiting to be discovered.
Diving in Myanmar offers the chance to encounter incredible marine species like manta rays, barracudas, frogfish, seahorses, and various types of shrimp, including the elusive harlequin shrimp. You’ll also find sharks swimming alongside divers, as well as expansive reefs, some as large as small houses!
The best time to embark on a Myanmar diving safari is between November and May, when the weather is calm and ideal for diving. The rest of the year brings monsoon rains and rough seas, making diving conditions more challenging.
Discover the Top Dive Sites in Myanmar’s Untouched Waters
Diving in Myanmar offers the chance to encounter incredible marine species like manta rays, barracudas, frogfish, seahorses, and various types of shrimp, including the elusive harlequin shrimp. You’ll also find sharks swimming alongside divers, as well as expansive reefs, some as large as small houses!
The best time to embark on a Myanmar diving safari is between November and May, when the weather is calm and ideal for diving. The rest of the year brings monsoon rains and rough seas, making diving conditions more challenging.
Discover the Top Dive Sites in Myanmar’s Untouched Waters
The Best Way to Dive in Myanmar: Liveaboard Diving Trips in the Mergui Archipelago & Burma Banks
MV Smiling Seahorse at Western Rocky
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In Myanmar, the best way to experience world-class diving is through liveaboard diving trips, which provide unparalleled access to the remote and untouched dive sites of the Mergui Archipelago.
Myanmar liveaboard cruises depart from either Ranong, Thailand, or Kawthaung, Myanmar, offering convenient departure points for divers worldwide. Ranong is more than just a departure hub—it’s a hidden gem rich in natural attractions. The area features hot springs, unspoiled mangrove forests, and stunning islands, making it a perfect spot to relax and explore before embarking on your liveaboard dive adventure in Burma. |
Escape the Crowds on Our Exclusive Liveaboard in Burma!
What Marine Life Can You Encounter While Diving in Myanmar?
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Diving in Myanmar offers an incredible variety of marine life, making it a paradise for divers in search of unique underwater experiences. The virgin waters of Burma are home to an array of magnificent species, including manta rays, dolphins, blotched stingrays, and leopard sharks, all patrolling the clear, calm waters of the Mergui Archipelago.
In addition to these majestic creatures, divers will find a rich diversity of smaller marine life. Lobsters, crabs (including spider, sponge, and porcelain crabs), and various types of shrimp (such as squat, mantis, tapestry, and Durban shrimp) scuttle across the seafloor, providing endless opportunities for exploration and observation. Underwater photographers will be in paradise as they encounter fascinating species like pipefish (including ghost, cleaner, and spotted varieties), frogfish, and scorpionfish (such as stone, lion, and devil scorpionfish). The vibrant colors of nudibranchs and seahorses compete for attention against the stunning coral heads and the untouched seabed, creating a breathtaking underwater landscape. |
Nurse Shark
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Soft Coral Crab
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Hawksbill Turttle
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Where to Go Diving in Myanmar: Explore the Best Diving Destination
Myanmar is home to two primary diving areas that attract divers from around the globe: the Mergui Archipelago and the Burma Banks.
Discover the wonders of the Mergui Archipelago
The Mergui Archipelago is a true paradise for divers, renowned for its soft corals and vibrant macro life.
This stunning region offers some of the best dive sites in Southeast Asia, drawing adventure seekers to its pristine, uncrowded waters. Divers come to the Mergui Archipelago not only for the thrill of exploring secluded dive sites but also for the rich diversity of marine species and coral formations, some of which are found nowhere else on Earth.
Among the must-see dive sites is Black Rock, where divers have an excellent chance of spotting larger pelagic species like giant manta rays, and schools of jacks. High Rock, a small island encircled by a rocky reef, offers a fascinating maze of underwater formations, while Tower Rock stands out with its towering walls covered in vibrant corals and crustaceans, making it a favorite among underwater photographers.
Shark Cave, with its three islets, is another top highlight. It’s a haven for colorful species and a delight for Macro lovers, featuring rare finds like harlequin shrimp, tapestry shrimp, seahorses and ghost pipefish.
For those seeking an explosion of color, the McLeod Islands are known for their magnificent soft corals and Seafan Forest captivates with its giant sea fans and vibrant purple coral-laden pinnacles. South Twin Island's lush hills and large rock formations hide underwater passages begging to be explored. Meanwhile, the crystal-clear waters of North Twin Island are ideal for spotting majestic marine life such as eagle rays, manta rays, and schools of barracuda.
Finally, Western Rocky, one of Myanmar’s southernmost dive sites, offers a unique and thrilling adventure. Dive into the island’s heart through mysterious underwater tunnels and chambers for an unforgettable exploration of its hidden interior.
For more details on the best dive sites in Burma, check out our comprehensive guide to diving in Myanmar!
Discover the wonders of the Mergui Archipelago
The Mergui Archipelago is a true paradise for divers, renowned for its soft corals and vibrant macro life.
This stunning region offers some of the best dive sites in Southeast Asia, drawing adventure seekers to its pristine, uncrowded waters. Divers come to the Mergui Archipelago not only for the thrill of exploring secluded dive sites but also for the rich diversity of marine species and coral formations, some of which are found nowhere else on Earth.
Among the must-see dive sites is Black Rock, where divers have an excellent chance of spotting larger pelagic species like giant manta rays, and schools of jacks. High Rock, a small island encircled by a rocky reef, offers a fascinating maze of underwater formations, while Tower Rock stands out with its towering walls covered in vibrant corals and crustaceans, making it a favorite among underwater photographers.
Shark Cave, with its three islets, is another top highlight. It’s a haven for colorful species and a delight for Macro lovers, featuring rare finds like harlequin shrimp, tapestry shrimp, seahorses and ghost pipefish.
For those seeking an explosion of color, the McLeod Islands are known for their magnificent soft corals and Seafan Forest captivates with its giant sea fans and vibrant purple coral-laden pinnacles. South Twin Island's lush hills and large rock formations hide underwater passages begging to be explored. Meanwhile, the crystal-clear waters of North Twin Island are ideal for spotting majestic marine life such as eagle rays, manta rays, and schools of barracuda.
Finally, Western Rocky, one of Myanmar’s southernmost dive sites, offers a unique and thrilling adventure. Dive into the island’s heart through mysterious underwater tunnels and chambers for an unforgettable exploration of its hidden interior.
For more details on the best dive sites in Burma, check out our comprehensive guide to diving in Myanmar!
Leopard Shark
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Pygmy Squid
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Mantis Shrimp close-up
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The Burma Banks: Debunking the Misconception
The Burma Banks are surprisingly more renowned than the Mergui Archipelago among divers, primarily because diving boats from Thailand were permitted to explore these underwater wonders in international waters long before the rest of the Mergui Archipelago opened up to tourism. This early access has led to continued references to the Burma Banks in various diving publications and operator communications.
First visited between the 1980s and 1990s, the Burma Banks quickly became a hotspot for shark sightings, drawing divers eager to encounter these majestic creatures.
Discovering the Burma Banks
Located about 180 kilometers northwest of the Similan Islands, the Burma Banks consist of a network of large underwater mountains, far removed from the influences of modern society. Surrounded by deep blue waters, this area offers true open-ocean diving that is unmatched in the region.
Why Dive the Burma Banks?
Divers who venture into the Burma Banks are rewarded with exceptional visibility over massive underwater seamounts, which rise from depths of 300 meters to just 15 meters below the surface. This unique topography sets the Burma Banks apart from the diving experiences in Thailand and the Mergui Archipelago, offering a more remote and adventurous atmosphere.
Additionally, the deeper waters increase the likelihood of encountering larger, more elusive deep-sea species. The Burma Banks are considered the best spot in the region for shark encounters, with frequent sightings of nurse sharks, as well as rarer species such as tiger sharks and silvertip sharks.
Challenges of Diving at the Burma Banks
Despite its allure, diving at the Burma Banks comes with challenges. The distance from shore means a lengthy night crossing to reach these remote sites, and divers must spend the entire day there to make the journey worthwhile. The exposed nature of the area, coupled with a six-hour tidal change, leads to stronger currents, making it essential for divers to have experience and skill.
We often recommend using reef hooks on days with particularly strong currents, as the depth of the sites can limit bottom time for divers. While the marine life is diverse, those who have a passion for macro photography may find the Burma Banks less enchanting compared to the vibrant ecosystems of the Mergui Archipelago. Instead, this open-sea environment is ideal for spotting pelagic megafauna and migratory species.
Prioritizing Safety for Our Guests
Safety and suitability for our guests are our top priorities. Therefore, we only plan trips to the Burma Banks during our longest cruises when weather conditions are stable and predictable, ensuring a safe and enjoyable diving experience.
The Burma Banks are surprisingly more renowned than the Mergui Archipelago among divers, primarily because diving boats from Thailand were permitted to explore these underwater wonders in international waters long before the rest of the Mergui Archipelago opened up to tourism. This early access has led to continued references to the Burma Banks in various diving publications and operator communications.
First visited between the 1980s and 1990s, the Burma Banks quickly became a hotspot for shark sightings, drawing divers eager to encounter these majestic creatures.
Discovering the Burma Banks
Located about 180 kilometers northwest of the Similan Islands, the Burma Banks consist of a network of large underwater mountains, far removed from the influences of modern society. Surrounded by deep blue waters, this area offers true open-ocean diving that is unmatched in the region.
Why Dive the Burma Banks?
Divers who venture into the Burma Banks are rewarded with exceptional visibility over massive underwater seamounts, which rise from depths of 300 meters to just 15 meters below the surface. This unique topography sets the Burma Banks apart from the diving experiences in Thailand and the Mergui Archipelago, offering a more remote and adventurous atmosphere.
Additionally, the deeper waters increase the likelihood of encountering larger, more elusive deep-sea species. The Burma Banks are considered the best spot in the region for shark encounters, with frequent sightings of nurse sharks, as well as rarer species such as tiger sharks and silvertip sharks.
Challenges of Diving at the Burma Banks
Despite its allure, diving at the Burma Banks comes with challenges. The distance from shore means a lengthy night crossing to reach these remote sites, and divers must spend the entire day there to make the journey worthwhile. The exposed nature of the area, coupled with a six-hour tidal change, leads to stronger currents, making it essential for divers to have experience and skill.
We often recommend using reef hooks on days with particularly strong currents, as the depth of the sites can limit bottom time for divers. While the marine life is diverse, those who have a passion for macro photography may find the Burma Banks less enchanting compared to the vibrant ecosystems of the Mergui Archipelago. Instead, this open-sea environment is ideal for spotting pelagic megafauna and migratory species.
Prioritizing Safety for Our Guests
Safety and suitability for our guests are our top priorities. Therefore, we only plan trips to the Burma Banks during our longest cruises when weather conditions are stable and predictable, ensuring a safe and enjoyable diving experience.
Giant Oceanic Manta Ray
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Emperor Shrimp
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Healthy Coral Reef
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When to go on a Liveaboard in Myanmar?
Diving in Myanmar, also known as Burma, is best from November to May, with the peak season occurring from January to March. During this time, water temperatures are at their coolest in December, averaging around 26°C (79°F), and rising to 28°C (82°F) by April. Above the surface, the sea is generally calm from February to April, with mild winds and minimal waves at the start of the season. The climate remains dry and warm in April, making it an ideal time for diving.
Determining the best time to visit can be challenging, as each month of the six-month diving season offers unique experiences. For instance, early in the season, divers can witness the fascinating mating rituals of cuttlefish, while the end of the season brings an increase in sightings of ghost pipefish. Throughout the season, divers have the chance to encounter whale sharks and manta rays, with more consistent sightings typically occurring towards the end of the season.
The rainy season spans from May to October, during which the sea conditions can become hazardous. As a result, we suspend diving activities during these months, focusing instead on annual maintenance and upkeep. Our team remains accessible year-round, but we do not venture out to sea during this time.
Determining the best time to visit can be challenging, as each month of the six-month diving season offers unique experiences. For instance, early in the season, divers can witness the fascinating mating rituals of cuttlefish, while the end of the season brings an increase in sightings of ghost pipefish. Throughout the season, divers have the chance to encounter whale sharks and manta rays, with more consistent sightings typically occurring towards the end of the season.
The rainy season spans from May to October, during which the sea conditions can become hazardous. As a result, we suspend diving activities during these months, focusing instead on annual maintenance and upkeep. Our team remains accessible year-round, but we do not venture out to sea during this time.
Why Choose The Smiling Seahorse as Your Diving Liveaboard in Burma?
- Diving Burma since 2012, our cruise director is the most experienced in the area.
- Convenient Departure Point: Ranong is located just 20 minutes away from Myanmar, allowing for a swift immigration clearance process.
- Expert Dive Guides: Our dive guides are seasoned professionals who dive in Burma regularly, making them the most knowledgeable about the area's unique underwater ecosystems.
- Exceptional Customer Service: Our passion for hospitality shines through our reviews. We are proud to receive every year The Travelers’ Choice awards, the highest honor TripAdvisor can give.
- Gourmet Cuisine: Our talented chef specializes in preparing delicious Thai and European dishes, along with our signature barbecue feasts and caters to all kinds of dietary requirements.
- State-of-the-Art vessel: Our 2018-built Liveaboard accommodates a maximum of 16 divers, with a close to 1/1 guest-to-crew ratio ensuring personalized attention. Enjoy amenities such as cotton bedsheets, real coffee, a spacious dive platform with a dedicated photo room, and ample relaxing areas.
- Top-Quality Dive Equipment: We provide Mares and Scuba Pro rental gear, and run 2 Bauer Compressors. All equipment is serviced or replaced annually to ensure safety and reliability.
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If you have any questions about diving in Burma, feel free to check out our FAQ section or contact us directly for assistance!
Beautiful Sunset Mergui Archipelago
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Temple in Myanmar
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Sea Gipsy Mergui Archipelago
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