Richelieu — Mergui Archipelago
A combined route connecting the famous Thai dive site Richelieu Rock with the pristine waters of Myanmar’s Mergui Archipelago. Over 800 islands off the coast of Myanmar became available for diving only in 1997 — the rocky landscape covered in tropical forests and uninhabited islands create a sense of discovery.
The route begins at Richelieu Rock near the Surin Islands — one of the best dive sites in the Andaman Sea, where whale sharks and mantas are found. Then — Black Rock, Great Swinton and North Twin islands, Western Rocky Island with its channels and currents, the legendary Burma Banks and Cavern Island. Currents at many sites are strong and unpredictable, visibility varies from 10 to 30 meters.
What You'll See
Conditions
Season
October–May
Visibility
10–30 meters
Water Temperature
26–29°C
Level
Advanced Open Water
Duration
7–10 nights
Useful Information
Best Season
November–May (dry season, calm Andaman Sea)
Visa
Most nationalities need a Myanmar visa or e-visa; some, including Russian citizens, may enter visa-free for up to 30 days — check the current rules for your passport. Diving in the Mergui Archipelago also requires a separate Myanmar diving permit, which the liveaboard operator obtains in advance from passport details and cannot be arranged individually. Since the trip starts in Thailand, Thai entry requirements apply as well.
How to Get There
Fly to Bangkok, then take a domestic flight to Ranong (UNN) or Phuket (HKT) and transfer to the departure port. Entry via Yangon (RGN) is not used for these liveaboards.
Climate
Tropical monsoon, 28–34°C, rains from June to October
Currency
Myanmar kyat (MMK); US dollars accepted on liveaboards
Time Zone
UTC+6:30
