Where to book
Diving on The Smiling Seahorse liveaboard
The Smiling Seahorse operates between October and May as this is the best time to dive in Myanmar and Thailand’s west coast. The itineraries vary in duration and route, but you can choose between itineraries that visit either Thailand or Myanmar.
The Smiling Seahorse is one of the few liveaboards that go to Myanmar, which has only been welcoming tourists since 1997. Unsurprisingly, then, diving with The Smiling Seahorse means embarking on exclusive dive trips to still relatively uncharted waters.
Generally, The Smiling Seahorse liveaboard offers dive trips in the North and South of the Andaman Sea in Thailand, Myanmar’s Mergui Archipelago, and the Burma Banks.
Diving in Myanmar and Thailand includes highlights like the Similan and Surin Islands, where you’re likely to see manta rays; and Richelieu Rock, where you might spot whale sharks.
No matter what your itinerary, the boat departs Thailand from either Ranong, Khao Lak, or Phuket, and ends in one of these ports. Depending on the itinerary, dive trips can last between four and nine days.
The Smiling Seahorse also offers themed dive trips about topics as diverse as whale sharks, manta rays, coral reefs, blackwater diving, photo and video training courses, and more. These trips feature special guests onboard who share their knowledge and expertise to help you get the most out of your dives.
The boat offers both nitrox for an extra charge and rebreather diving support. Dives are done in small groups (up to four divers), and some can launch from small tenders. Most dives are deep, so you must be an advanced diver or willing to take a deep diving course while onboard.
Highlights:
- Unexplored dive sites in Myanmar
- Themed liveaboard trips
- Rebreather-friendly
- Deep dives
Onboard The Smiling Seahorse
The Smiling Seahorse has four decks, measures 82 feet (25 m), and features eight air-conditioned cabins for a total capacity of 16 guests.
There are two standard cabins on the upper deck with a shared bathroom. The beds can be configured into one double bed or two single bunk beds.
Four deluxe cabins on the main deck are the same as the standard cabins but have an ensuite bathroom. Two master cabins feature front-facing windows for stunning views over the horizon.
With four decks, The Smiling Seahorse has many corners, nooks, and spaces to relax, socialize, and take it all in.
The partially shaded top deck with hammocks and mats acts as a big lounge and sunbathing area. The upper deck has an open-air salon, which is the main social hub of the boat. With tables, benches, and cushions, this is the place where you’ll have your meals and dive briefings. Two bars offer a cozy spot to grab a drink post-dive. The main deck holds the deluxe and master cabins, as well as the dive deck.
Here, you’ll find everything you’d need, including storage space, nitrox analyzers, and a photography room—a dedicated area for underwater photographers and videographers to store, wash, and recharge their equipment. The photography room also acts as a maintenance room where you can repair your scuba kit. There are spare scuba parts available and Mares-certified technicians onboard.
Highlights:
- Open-air salon
- Spacious dive deck
- Photography room
- Mares-certified technicians onboard
Dining onboard The Smiling Seahorse
The Smiling Seahorse has an international menu with French and Thai influences. At breakfast, you’ll find eggs, toast, fresh fruit, cereals, yogurt, and jams. To drink, there’s Nescafé, filtered coffee, tea, juices, regular milk, and soy milk.
At lunch, you can expect Thai specialties or meals with a Western influence, and dinner features a selection of curries, salads, soup, or even barbecue. Alcoholic drinks are not included in the price.
You’ll also have access to snacks 24 hours per day—favorites include banana fritters, crepes, and spring rolls.
The team onboard The Smiling Seahorse is accustomed to catering to special dietary requirements (vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, allergies); just let them know upon booking.
- International cuisine (French and Thai influences)
- Special dietary requirements catered to
Things we like:
- New, purpose-built eco liveaboard (2018)
- Themed dive trips
- Photography room
- Mares-certified technicians onboard
- Rebreather-friendly
Things we don't like:
- Alcoholic drinks not included in the price
- Nitrox surcharge
- The standard rooms do not have a private bathroom
Key Facts
| Year Built | 2018 |
| Max Divers | 16 |
| Price Range | Budget |
| Trip Length | 5-7 Nights |
| Internet | No |
| Nitrox | Yes ($) |
| Equipment Rental | Yes ($) |
| Camera Station | Yes |
| Air Conditioning | Yes |
| Min. Logged Dives | No minimum |
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