We gave our Scuba Instructor one job:
Find the best and most popular liveaboards in Thailand and review them.
Our review team:
Torben Lonne
PADI instructor and Review Editor
Torben traveled around South East Asia for scuba diving and almost didn’t come back. His affinity for gear that works and his generosity for guiding people on their own path match his energy as editor of all things travel-related
Summer Worsley
Contributor at DIVEIN.com
Summer has been teaching scuba for the last 10 years.
Sylvia Jenkins
PADI Instructor
Sylvia is a scuba instructor and underwater photographer
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Thailand is known for its paradise beaches, beautiful attractions, prefect beaches, and World class diving.
When looking for a Liveaboard in Thailand, it’s usually to dive the areas of The Andaman Sea. Well-known for its world famous liveaboard diving. Home to a huge variety of marine life, including whale sharks, manta rays, endless numbers of reef fish and beautiful corals, there really is no other place like Thailand.
It’s difficult to choose wich liveaboard that will suit your needs and how to find the best price on that boat.
So we’ve gathered the best boats and made it possible to compare prices across all the different booking platforms. This way, you’ll get the best boat for your needs at the best price.
We’ve reviewed the 33 liveaboards in Thailand and complied our Top 10:
The 27meters/88 feet long MV Gentle Giant takes you to the Similan islands, Koh Haa, Hin Daeng and Richelieu Rock in just one trip. This unique liveaboard, renovated in 2017 offers scuba diving cruises on the Andaman sea. The MV Gentle Giant operates 6-7 times annually (between November and April) and guests are bound to have a relaxed and enjoyable time. Book now! It’s an opportunity you wouldn’t want to miss.
Key facts:
Year built:2017
Rental equip:Yes ($)
Max divers:20
Camera station:No
Internet:Yes (free)
Min logged dives:No minimum
Nitrox:Yes (free)
Aircon:Yes
Our Overall Review
4
Things we like:
Many people were happy with the opportunity to dive with the gentle giants.
Some people said the crew was outstanding and did their job well.
Everyone liked the food prepared by the chef.
Things we don't like:
Some people claimed that the dive guide could not control the bad behaved diver under water.
Sea World 1 is the symbol of Asian hospitality, style, and warmth. Its air-conditioned cabins are located on the main deck to offer the best views the sea has to offer! It has been conceived to make you live a dream-like liveaboard experience while exploring the best diving spots in the Andaman Sea and Myanmar thanks to its extensive dive platform and gearing up area. In a cozy and refined atmosphere, you can watch our talented chef prepare delicious dishes in the kitchen while enjoying your favorite drink. Fresh and delicious flavors, innovative cuisine, rich in aromas and flavors of Asia, the menu is an explosion of taste where Thai, Burmese, Indian and Chinese cuisines meet.
Key facts:
Year built:2017
Rental equip:No
Max divers:18
Camera station:No
Internet:No
Min logged dives:No minimum
Nitrox:No
Aircon:Yes
Our Overall Review
4
Things we like:
Many divers said that the reefs were entirely covered with yellow, orange and lavender soft corals.
Many people commended the instructor on the the opportunity to dive close to whale sharks.
Several divers reported that on their day off they visited a remote island and went snorkeling in the volcanic crater.
Some divers said the dive masters main concern was safety and no incidents took place.
Things we don't like:
A couple of people noted that the beds they slept on were hard.
Some people noted that there was limited space in the cabins for luggage and no lockers.
The legendary liveaboard vessel, The Junk, offers luxurious dive safari cruises to the best diving sites in Thailand. Manufactured in 1962 and reconditioned in 1998 it provides unique diving experiences. Discover magnificent sites like the Similan Islands, Richelieu Rock and Koh Bon diving alongside whale sharks and manta rays. The liveaboard cruises are great for divers as well as non-divers, offering features for snorkeling and land excursions. Dives are done from a zodiac and Nitrox is available for those certified.
Key facts:
Year built:1998
Rental equip:Yes ($)
Max divers:12
Camera station:Yes
Internet:No
Min logged dives:No minimum
Nitrox:No
Aircon:Yes
Our Overall Review
4.3
Things we like:
Many divers says the liveaboard has great equipment to rent
The friendliness and service level of the crew exceeded expectations
Food is amazing according to many divers
Divers says it's a experience they will never forget
Things we don't like:
Some people said the they dives aren't beginner friendly and that you should be at least advanced certificate divers
The newly-renovated Phinisi joined in 2018 the growing fleet and is now offering unique diving experiences in the Andaman Sea. Like its big brother The Junk, its elegant style perfectly combines colonial and contemporary influences. Admire the colorful landscapes of Thailand, so beautiful you’d feel like in a fairytale; no wonder they call it “the land of a thousand smiles”. The Andaman Sea, meanwhile, contains in the heart of its crystal clear waters the dream of every diver and snorkeler. There’s such a wide variety of fauna & flora and you might even encounter sharks. Visit some of the best dive spots in the world, Koh Bon, Koh Tachai & Richelieu Rock in Thailand but also the newly opened to divers Myanmar.
Key facts:
Year built:2018
Rental equip:No
Max divers:18
Camera station:Yes
Internet:No
Min logged dives:No minimum
Nitrox:No
Aircon:Yes
Our Overall Review
3.7
Things we like:
Some divers reported that the group was small and this made the whole trip more intimate and directed.
Several divers commended the dive master and diving instructors on their excellent knowledge and briefings.
People stated that the food was a mix of Thai and Western cuisine and was prepared to perfection. .
Some people noted that the Phinisi was a overall great boat with all of the necessary facilities.
Things we don't like:
Some people expressed that they felt hard done not being able to see any big pelagics.
Some people were taken back due to the fact that they had to share a cabin with 4 people.
The MY Genesis I, an excellent option for divers who choose to travel alone, in pairs with friends and families offers you the best dive sites in Thailand. At 25 meters/82 feet in length, this luxury liveaboard accommodates 12 passengers with enough space. The boat has eight professional crew members who are there to make your trip fun while making your safety their priority. So why not book now and enjoy the MY Genesis I on the Andaman sea.
Key facts:
Year built:2016
Rental equip:Yes ($)
Max divers:14
Camera station:Yes
Internet:No
Min logged dives:No minimum
Nitrox:No
Aircon:Yes
Our Overall Review
4.1
Things we like:
Many divers said it was an intensive diving experience in a short period of time.
Many people noted that the staff were friendly and professional.
Many people were happy with the budget friendly cost of the cruise.
The divers said it was one of there best experiences and they would return.
Things we don't like:
Some people noted that the cabins weren't big and spacious.
Divers said that there was limited space for passengers.
The Manta Queen 7 liveaboard offers ten cabins and plenty of relaxation space to enjoy over five days and four nights of diving at the Similan Islands, Koh Bon, Koh Tachai, Richelieu Rock & the fantastic wreck dive Boonsung Wreck.
Key facts:
Year built:2015
Rental equip:Yes ($)
Max divers:22
Camera station:Yes
Internet:Yes (free)
Min logged dives:No minimum
Nitrox:Yes (free)
Aircon:free
Our Overall Review
4
Things we like:
Some people said that the captain and director were flexible in allowing the passengers to choose their diving sites.
Many people were happy with the friendly nature of the crew while conducting them in a professional manner.
Things we don't like:
Some people noted that the mattresses did not fit their bed and it caused an uneven level when sleeping.
People were taken back because the boat was only filled with half of the amount it was set to have.
Want to cruise the Andaman Sea in comfort and style? The 37m Sawasdee Fasai liveaboard is your dream come true. This boat is large, but only carries twenty-four divers so you will be able to stretch out and relax between dives. Sawasdee Fasai offers five day, four night dive safaris that will take you diving of Similan Islands, Richelieu Rock, Koh Tachai and Koh Bon.
Key facts:
Year built:2016
Rental equip:Yes ($)
Max divers:30
Camera station:Yes
Internet:Yes (free)
Min logged dives:No minimum
Nitrox:Yes (free)
Aircon:Yes
Our Overall Review
4
Things we like:
Many divers stated that everything was well organised there was only 3-5 persons per dive master.
Several divers noted that they saw giant mantes, hammerhead sharks, manta shrimps, barracudas, turtles and whale sharks.
Many people commended the crew on being professional and always going the extra mile for when they were needed and not needed.
The food was excellent and the master chef was world class.
Things we don't like:
A couple of people noted that the gas fumes from the engine room entered their cabin.
Some people said they would have liked more time to explore on their own with a partner.
The Deep Andaman Queen liveaboard is a 30m beauty providing a comfortable and relaxing dive vacation. The Deep Andaman Queen offers four to seven days liveaboard safaris traveling the Similan Islands, Surin Islands, Richelieu Rock, and Burma Banks. She was custom designed for diving and even offers separate entry and exit platforms.
Key facts:
Year built:2012
Rental equip:Yes ($)
Max divers:21
Camera station:Yes
Internet:Yes (free)
Min logged dives:No minimum
Nitrox:Yes (free)
Aircon:Yes
Our Overall Review
4.1
Things we like:
Several divers stated that the itinerary was well planned and executed by the crew and staff.
Many people were happy with the fact that they could meet like minded people that loved the under water life.
The food was well prepared and everyone gave the chef compliments on the excellent work he did.
A lot of divers said they would return to this magical liveaboard.
Things we don't like:
Some people said they were disappointed that they did not get to spot manta and whale sharks.
A couple of people noted that the engine room was close to the lower decks and this caused a disturbance.
The 35m Thai Aggressor diving liveaboard has everything you could desire to complete you diving vacation. The crew is ready and willing to attend to your needs; providing comfort and opportunities for fun to all levels of divers. The Thai aggressor even offers a full array of PADI courses to catch you up to speed or help you increase your diving knowledge and expertise.
Key facts:
Year built:2013
Rental equip:Yes ($)
Max divers:16
Camera station:Yes
Internet:No
Min logged dives:No minimum
Nitrox:No
Aircon:Yes
Our Overall Review
4.1
Things we like:
Many people were happy with the ambiance on board the liveaboard as the other divers made it fun and enjoyable.
Some people stated that the crew was interactive and they stayed an amazing amount of time ensuring that everything was 100% correct for the passengers.
Divers commended the extensive briefings that covered safety concerns and the boats dive schedule was run efficiently.
The food was delicious and resembled some of the best restaurants in the world.
Many people said they were presented with warm towels after each dive along with a delicious spread of snacks.
Things we don't like:
Some people said that the Wi-Fi did not work properly even when they were on shore.
A couple of people noted that the liveaboard needed some repairs.
Some divers said the equipment needed replacement as it was kind of oldish.
The MV DiveRACE is a 35m luxury dive liveaboard on the Andaman Sea. Not only will divers experience some of the world’s best diving, but private massages and a BBQ pit as well. Diving with the DiveRace Class E makes reaching Thailand and Burma’s remote dive spots anything but rough. With fifteen staff on-board, guests will never be left wanting when on a dive safari.
Key facts:
Year built:2015
Rental equip:Yes ($)
Max divers:20
Camera station:No
Internet:No
Min logged dives:No minimum
Nitrox:No
Aircon:Yes
Our Overall Review
4.1
Things we like:
Many people were happy with all that activities there wasn't one moment where you would get bored because there is always something to do.
Some divers mentioned that the instructors were knowledgeable and they catered the dives according to your skill level.
The crew was friendly and upbeat and always greeted you with a smile.
The food prepared by the chef was amazing and he always had a special treat lined up.
Things we don't like:
Some people noted that it was disheartening not being able to have seen a whale shark.
Divers said the only drawback was the fact that there are to many dive boats at one location.
Diving in Thailand is possible all year round. The peak diving season is May-September and October-April. The water temperature in Thailand ranges from 28-30°C
There are 22 PADI approved dive safaris that travel around the south of Thailand. However, the most popular liveaboards, including Manta Queen 8, travel around the Similan Islands, Richelieu Rock, and Koh Bon. These locations are only reachable by liveaboard. The usual duration of liveaboards in Thailand is around 4 to 10 days.
With so many incredible diving locations to choose from, it’s good to know a few of the top places to explore.
The Similan Islands
These islands are very well known amongst divers; so missing out would be an absolute travesty.
Koh Samui
Koh Samui is another one of Thailand’s most popular destinations amongst divers as well as non-divers. It can be used as a base for travelers hoping to do some off-shore diving, as well as a great place to catch a liveaboard and even continue your diving qualifications.
Ranong
Ranong is known as a ‘gateway’ to the Burma Banks and the Mergui Archipelago. This location offers incredible diving that makes you feel like you’re discovering a whole new underwater world.
Koh Tao
This is another extremely well-liked travel destination. It’s the perfect place for all levels of diver, even newbies and children who want to experience scuba for the first time.
Information to know about liveaboard diving in Thailand
Thailand is a tropical island paradise and with that comes hot weather and humidity throughout the year.
From May through to September is monsoon season where the country becomes not only warm but wet as well.
From the months of November through to mid-March, the weather dries out and the weather gets hotter.
Average temperature ranges from 30C/85F-35C/95F all year round.
Average water temperature ranges from 27C/80F-32C/90F all year round.
Visibility ranges from 10m-40m depending on what time of year it is.
Currents depend on location and can range from extremely strong to practically non-existent.
Diving can be done throughout Thailand any time, however, if you’re planning a trip to the Gulf of Thailand, then the best time to dive is from May to September.
If you’re planning a liveaboard to the Andaman Sea, then the best time to dive is from October to April.
High tourist season is from November to March, with a huge peak over the Christmas and New Year period. Prices in Thailand are extremely low, however, they do increase over this time.
Liveaboards run throughout the year however if you are planning on joining a dive safari traveling to the fascinating archipelagos of Similans and Surin, it is only available between October and May. The national park is open at this time and allows for some spectacular diving. You do not want to travel all the way to Thailand and miss out.
The main international airport is located in Bangkok and is known as Suvarnabhumi International Airport. However, there is a second airport in Bangkok that used to be the main airport known as Don Muang International Airport. This airport is now used for more of the national and regional international connections and incoming flights.
The language spoken in Thailand is Thai as well as English, so do not worry, almost all tourist areas speak English.
The national currency of Thailand is Thai Baht, there are approximately 32.66THB to 1 USD.
Year built:2017
Max divers:20
Min logged dives:No minimum
Aircon:Yes
Year built:2017
Rental equip:Yes ($)
Max divers:20
Camera station:No
Internet:Yes (free)
Min logged dives:No minimum
Nitrox:Yes (free)
Aircon:Yes
Many people were happy with the opportunity to dive with the gentle giants.
Some people claimed that the dive guide could not control the bad behaved diver under water.
Some people claimed that the dive guide could not control the bad behaved diver under water.
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