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Diving on the Thailand Master
The Thailand Master travels continuously between Southern Thailand, the Similan & Surin Islands, and the Mergui Archipelago of Myanmar. Guests can expect three to four dives a day, with easy reef drifts in the south, colorful bommies and the King Cruiser wreck in the Similans, and black coral-smothered walls in Mergui.
Pelagics steal the show—manta rays are common, whale sharks show up from March through May, while leopard and blacktip reef sharks patrol year-round. Macro lovers can hunt for harlequin shrimp, ghost pipefish, and frogfish in sheltered bays and sandy bottoms.
Diving conditions in Thailand and Myanmar are generally clear, calm, and warm with mild currents, making it an ideal destination for divers of all experience levels. Some itineraries require only an Open Water certification and, thanks to the easy conditions, many guests choose to complete their Advanced Open Water certification during the trip.
If you’re not already certified, you can also take a nitrox course on any of the itineraries. Diving is done from two RIBs and groups are capped at six divers per guide for relaxed briefings and longer bottom times.
Highlights:
- Similan granite pinnacles in the Similans, soft-coral gardens in the Surins & whale shark hotspot Richelieu Rock
- Remote sites in the Mergui Archipelago with black coral forests and schooling trevally
- Warm tropical dives and easy conditions
- Gear and nitrox can be rented for a surcharge
Onboard the Thailand Master
Thailand Master is a 112-foot (34 m) Indonesian-built phinisi schooner, constructed from dark ironwood and teak. The main dining area is outside with shaded communal tables and meals served buffet-style.
Out on the deck, there are beanbags and sun loungers for a midday nap or admiring the stars. There is a small air-conditioned salon where guests can help themselves to a self-serve coffee and tea station, and lots of plugs for the photographers. The fridge holds soft drinks, beer and wine, which guests take themselves, and pay for at the end of the trip. Below the deck, seven ensuite cabins are arranged to suit every budget and group size. Three cabins can be utilized as twin share or double; two fixed twin cabins feature two single beds; and two cabins feature four single beds (two twins and a bunk). All rooms feature individual air-conditioning, hot-water showers, fresh towels and storage options.
Highlights:
- Beautiful dark teak junk boat, with welcoming communal areas.
- All rooms feature individual air-conditioning & hot-water showers.
- Free kayaks and island excursions on non-diving afternoons
Dining onboard the Thailand Master
Three generous meals are served buffet-style, mixing fresh Thai curries, international favorites and nightly desserts. Afternoon cakes, fruit and pre-dive snacks keep energy high. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free diets can be effortlessly catered to.
Cold beer, soft drinks and wine are available to guests for a surcharge, although bringing your own is permitted with moderation.
Highlights:
- Locally sourced Thai produce and seafood
- Shaded open-air dining with ocean views
Things we like:
- 18 guests to 4 guides
- Flexible itineraries (4-, 6-, 7- & 10-night) across Thailand and Myanmar
- Authentic wooden junk sailboat with relaxed vibe
Things we don't like:
- No WiFi onboard
- Nitrox not included
Key Facts
| Year Built | 2007 |
| Max Divers | 14 |
| Price Range | Mid-range |
| 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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