Liveaboard Knowledge
Ultimate Guide to Thailand Liveaboards
By Sorrasek Phiboonthammasak Date 19 Feb 2025
You may have heard about liveaboard diving in Thailand, particularly in the Similan Islands and Richelieu Rock. However, the liveaboard experience in Thailand offers much more than just these well-known spots. In this guide, you'll uncover lesser-known insights into Thailand's liveaboard scene, including hidden luxury boats, off-the-beaten-path itineraries, and secret dive sites. This comprehensive guide will be unlike anything else on the internet, providing an in-depth look at the unique liveaboard experiences Thailand has to offer.
Why You Should Do a Liveaboard Diving Trip in Thailand
A liveaboard experience in Thailand is a must for any scuba diver. Here’s why:
- World-Class Dive Sites – Explore some of the most stunning underwater locations, teeming with marine life.
- Unmatched Liveaboard Service – Enjoy exceptional hospitality and service throughout your trip.
- Options for Every Budget – Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly adventure or a luxury experience, there’s a liveaboard for you.
- Incredible Thai Cuisine – Indulge in delicious Thai food while cruising through paradise.
World-Class Dive Sites
Thailand boasts incredible underwater conditions with crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. Divers have a great chance of spotting iconic marine life, such as whale sharks and manta rays. The colorful soft corals intertwined with rocky landscapes create breathtaking scenery for any scuba diver.
For those who love big marine life, large schools of giant trevally hunting in the blue or encounters with whale sharks will leave a lasting impression. Macro lovers won’t be disappointed either—hidden gems like ghost pipefish and harlequin shrimp make for stunning underwater photography.
Liveaboards in Thailand visit all the top dive sites, including:
- Richelieu Rock – A horseshoe-shaped pinnacle, famous for its rich marine biodiversity.
- Similan Islands – Known for crystal-clear waters and pristine coral reefs.
- Koh Bon – A manta ray cleaning station.
- Hin Muang & Hin Daeng – Twin rock pinnacles covered in soft coral.
- Koh Lipe – Home to one of the world’s most stunning soft coral fields.
- HTMS Prab – A WWII shipwreck, now an artificial reef.
- Sail Rock – A prime site for schooling fish and pelagic encounters.
And many more hidden gems waiting to be explored!
Unmatched Liveaboard Experience
Thailand is world-famous for its warm hospitality, and liveaboard diving is no exception. Onboard, you'll be greeted by enthusiastic and friendly staff, ready to serve delicious food during surface intervals and ensure a smooth diving experience.
The motto of Thai liveaboards? "Dive, Eat, Sleep, Repeat." And eating is a big part of the experience! Expect a feast of local Thai cuisine and international dishes, making every meal a highlight of the trip. Many divers even joke that they gain weight despite all the diving!
A Liveaboard for Every Budget
Thailand has over 40 liveaboard boats in service, catering to different budgets, schedules, and comfort levels.
Budget-Friendly Options (Around 20,000 THB) – Converted fishing boats offering an authentic and affordable adventure.
Luxury Liveaboards (Up to 70,000 THB) – Custom-built yachts designed for maximum comfort and an exclusive diving experience.
Regardless of which liveaboard you choose, one thing is certain: with over 200+ dives in Thailand, I can confidently say that there’s never a dull moment on these trips.
In the next section, I’ll break down Thailand’s liveaboard itineraries so you can find the perfect trip for your dream diving adventure.
Thailand Liveaboard Itinerary and Highlights
If you've experienced liveaboard diving in Thailand or done extensive research, you’re likely familiar with the North Andaman itinerary. This route explores Similan, Koh Bon, Koh Surin, Koh Tachai, and Richelieu Rock, making it the most popular liveaboard destination in Thailand. However, there are equally remarkable yet lesser-known itineraries, including the South Andaman, Koh Lipe, and the Gulf of Thailand, each offering unique underwater experiences. Below is a breakdown of each itinerary and its highlights.
North Andaman – The Most Popular Itinerary
The North Andaman itinerary is the primary choice for most liveaboards in Thailand. It is popular due to the crystal-clear waters and pristine reefs of the Similan Islands, the manta ray cleaning station at Koh Bon, and the world-class dive site Richelieu Rock, known for its chaotic underwater action. Richelieu Rock hosts an abundance of macro marine life, large schools of fish, and pelagic species such as whale sharks and manta rays.
Key Dive Sites: Richelieu Rock, Similan Islands, Koh Bon, Koh Tachai, Koh Surin
Highlights: Whale sharks, manta rays, macro marine life, dramatic rock formations, sea fans, and soft corals
Best Season: October – May
South Andaman – A Hidden Gem
The South Andaman itinerary varies depending on the trip’s range and typically starts from Phuket. It includes diverse dive sites such as Koh Phi Phi, known for its stunning wall dives and leopard sharks. Hin Muang and Hin Daeng offer twin rock pinnacles covered in vibrant soft corals, while Koh Haa Lagoon features a mesmerizing cavern dive. Some itineraries extend to Koh Lipe, home to world-class soft coral fields and 8 Mile Rock, where divers may encounter manta rays and whale sharks.
While South Andaman offers incredible marine biodiversity, visibility can be unpredictable at some dive sites.
Key Dive Sites: Koh Phi Phi (Bida), Hin Muang, Hin Daeng, Koh Haa, Koh Lipe, King Cruiser
Highlights: Whale sharks, manta rays, leopard sharks, soft corals, schools of fusiliers, and macro marine life
Best Season: October – June
Koh Lipe
Koh Lipe is a small island in the deep south of Thailand, near the Malaysian border. Despite its size, it offers exceptional dive sites, particularly 8 Mile Rock, where divers explore a rock pinnacle covered in anemone reefs with opportunities to spot eagle rays, manta rays, and whale sharks. Another must-visit dive site is Tarang or Stone Henge, featuring stone pillars covered in vibrant pink soft corals, with macro species such as frogfish and seahorses. Koh Lipe can be a standalone itinerary or part of the South Andaman route.
Key Dive Sites: 8 Mile Rock, Stone Henge, Pattaya Beach
Highlights: Whale sharks, manta rays, soft corals, and macro marine life
Best Season: September – June
Gulf of Thailand – Koh Tao & Chumphon
Koh Tao is globally renowned for its dive schools, producing more certified divers than any other location. However, few know that Koh Tao and Chumphon can be explored together via liveaboard trips. During the low season in the Andaman Sea (July to October), the Gulf of Thailand offers peak diving conditions. Whale sharks are frequently spotted at multiple dive sites. Divers can explore the WWII shipwreck HTMS Prab, experience vast schools of fish at Sail Rock, or admire large sea fans and rock pinnacles at Chumphon Pinnacle.
The main downside is the limited availability of international direct flights to the departure ports for Koh Tao and Chumphon.
Key Dive Sites: Sail Rock, Chumphon Pinnacle, HTMS Prab, Shark Point
Highlights: Whale sharks, shipwrecks, and large schools of fish
Best Season: June – October
Gulf of Thailand – Losin
Losin is one of Thailand’s least-known liveaboard destinations. It features a simple itinerary: take a liveaboard to Losin, dive at Losin, and wait for a whale shark. This site is renowned for whale shark sightings and boasts vast fields of hard staghorn coral.
The main drawback is that if you’re unlucky and don’t spot a whale shark, you may spend the entire trip seeing only staghorn coral.
Key Dive Site: Losin
Highlights: Whale sharks, whale sharks, and more whale sharks
Best Season: June – October
Each of these itineraries offers a unique and unforgettable diving experience. Whether you choose the popular North Andaman route, the diverse South Andaman adventure, or the hidden gems of the Gulf of Thailand, Thailand’s underwater world is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Best Time for Liveaboard Diving in Thailand
Divers can embark on a liveaboard trip in Thailand year-round. However, the itinerary may vary depending on the season and the location of each dive site.
Understanding Thailand’s Two Diving Regions
Thailand has two major oceanic regions: the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. These two regions have opposite diving seasons, meaning there is always an excellent location for liveaboard diving, regardless of the time of year.
Andaman Sea
The best time for a liveaboard trip in the Andaman Sea is from October to May, during the dry season when the sea is calm, and the air is cool. During this period, all national parks are open, allowing divers, snorkelers, and island hoppers to explore the islands freely.
Diving Conditions in the Andaman Sea (October - May):
- Water Temperature: 27-30°C
- Current: Mild to moderate
- Surface Temperature: 25-30°C
During the low season (June to September), the Andaman Sea is still diveable, but only select sites like Koh Lipe, Phuket, and Racha Island remain open. Diving during this period is subject to daily weather conditions.
Gulf of Thailand
The best time to scuba dive in the Gulf of Thailand is from June to September, when the sea is calm, and there is little to no rain. This is also when dive sites experience optimal conditions, as visibility improves due to low currents and reduced sediment from the islands.
Diving Conditions in the Gulf of Thailand (June - September):
- Water Temperature: 27-30°C
- Current: Mild to moderate
- Surface Temperature: 25-30°C
While the Gulf of Thailand is diveable all year, liveaboard services typically operate only from June to September. During the Andaman Sea’s peak season, liveaboard boats relocate there to accommodate divers.
By understanding these seasonal differences, divers can plan the perfect liveaboard experience in Thailand, ensuring optimal diving conditions and marine life encounters throughout the year.
What to Expect During a Liveaboard Experience in Thailand
A liveaboard in Thailand fully embraces the Dive, Eat, Sleep, Repeat mantra. This section will provide a breakdown of what to expect from the moment you are picked up to the moment you disembark.
Pick-Up and Check-In
Most liveaboards in Thailand offer pick-up services, arranging transport from the airport or nearby hotels to the port. Upon arrival at the boat, you will check in, and the crew will assist in placing your bags in your cabin.
Before departure, a boat briefing will cover important details about onboard amenities, safety protocols, and the diving schedule. Most liveaboards check in late at night, meaning there is usually no dive on the first day.
Diving on the Liveaboard
Each day consists of up to four dives: three daytime dives and one night dive. Divers are split into small groups, each led by a local dive guide. Group assignments are based on experience level to ensure similar air consumption rates and depth capabilities. Typically, groups consist of 4-6 divers per guide.
Each dive follows a structured process:
- Dive briefing – The dive guide explains the dive plan, conditions, and safety information.
- Gear up – Divers suit up with their scuba gear.
- Dinghy transport – Divers board a dinghy and perform a back-roll entry into the dive site.
- Post-dive pick-up – After the dive, the dinghy retrieves divers and returns them to the liveaboard.
Example Daily Schedule:
6:30 AM – Wake-Up Call
7:00 AM – Dive Briefing #1
7:30 AM – Dive Time
9:00 AM – Breakfast
10:00 AM – Dive Briefing #2
10:30 AM – Dive Time
12:00 PM – Lunch
1:30 PM – Dive Briefing #3
2:00 PM – Dive Time
3:30 PM – Snack
4:30 PM – Dive Briefing (Night or Sunset Dive)
5:00 PM – Sunset or Night Diving
6:30 PM – Dinner
Food on Board
As seen in the schedule, food is available throughout the day to fuel hungry divers. Liveaboard boats in Thailand operate on a full-board meal policy, meaning meals are included in the trip price.
Most boats provide four meals per day: breakfast, lunch, a heavy afternoon snack, and dinner. Additionally, fruit, water, tea, and coffee are available 24/7. Meals are typically buffet-style, offering a variety of Thai and international cuisine. Depending on the boat, special dinner menus may include BBQ, Shabu, or Sushi.
Note: Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are usually not included in the trip price. Check with your liveaboard provider before booking.
Check-Out and Drop-Off
After an incredible diving experience—hopefully with manta rays and whale sharks—it’s time to check out.
Check-Out Process:
- Settle any outstanding bills for drinks, rentals, or extras.
- Tipping the crew (optional but appreciated). Tips are generally shared among the boat staff.
- Gear handling – Rental gear is handled by the crew, while personal gear should be cleaned, dried, and packed by the diver.
- Drop-off arrangements – The boat crew will arrange transportation to your next destination. Note that long-distance transfers may incur an additional fee.
Ports of Departure and How to Get There
As you may already know, liveaboard trips in Thailand follow various itineraries, each with its own departure port. Below is a breakdown of where each itinerary departs from and how to get there.
North and South Andaman Itinerary
Departure Ports: Khao Lak or Phuket
How to Get There:
The most convenient way to reach the ports in Khao Lak or Phuket is by flying into Phuket International Airport (HKT). Domestic flights from Bangkok take about one hour, and the airport also offers direct international connections from China, Singapore, Malaysia, India, and other countries. Upon arrival, a liveaboard van service will pick you up and transfer you to the port, which takes approximately one hour.
If you are already traveling within Thailand, you can also reach Phuket by bus, train, or car.
Koh Lipe Itinerary
Departure Port: Pakbara Pier, Satun Province
How to Get There:
To reach Koh Lipe, fly into Hat Yai International Airport (HDY). A liveaboard van will pick you up from the airport and drive you to Pakbara Pier, which takes about two hours. From there, the boat journey to Koh Lipe takes 2–3 hours.
Hat Yai and Satun are also accessible by train, bus, or car, though traveling with diving gear may be more challenging.
Gulf of Thailand - Losin Itinerary
Departure Port: Songkhla, Songkhla Province
How to Get There:
Similar to the Koh Lipe itinerary, divers should fly into Hat Yai International Airport. A liveaboard van will transport you to Songkhla Pier for departure.
Gulf of Thailand - Koh Tao/Chumphon Itinerary
Departure Port: Thung Wua Laen Beach, Chumphon
How to Get There:
Getting to this liveaboard departure point can be more challenging. The easiest option is to fly into Chumphon Airport (CJM), where a liveaboard service will pick you up. However, since Chumphon Airport only operates domestic flights, you will need to transfer in Bangkok if arriving from abroad.
Alternatively, if you are already traveling in Thailand, you can reach Surat Thani or Chumphon by bus, train, or car and meet the liveaboard team at Thung Wua Laen Beach directly.
Options and Budget for Liveaboard Trips in Thailand
Thailand offers a wide range of liveaboard options, from budget-friendly choices to luxurious experiences. No matter which option you choose, you’ll enjoy the same incredible dive sites and underwater conditions. The main differences lie in the comfort, amenities, and services provided on board.
Budget Liveaboard
A budget liveaboard provides an excellent diving experience at an affordable price. You’ll dive at the same sites as higher-end boats and enjoy full-board meals, accommodation, and a scuba diving guide. However, budget boats may be older and offer fewer amenities or services.
Price Range: 20,000 – 30,000 THB for a 3 to 4-night trip
Inclusions: Accommodation, full-board meals, and guided dives
Examples of budget liveaboards:
Standard Liveaboard
A standard liveaboard offers a high-quality experience with comfortable, clean accommodations and delicious food. While it may not have the luxury features of high-end boats, it provides everything needed for a great diving trip.
Price Range: 30,000 – 40,000 THB per trip
Inclusions: Accommodation, full-board meals, and guided dives
Examples of standard liveaboards:
Luxury Liveaboard
A luxury liveaboard goes beyond just a diving experience. These custom-built yachts feature stylish interiors, premium amenities, and top-tier services. Some may offer jacuzzis, camera rooms, massage services, or even entertainment rooms with PlayStation consoles.
Price Range: 40,000 – 70,000 THB per trip
Inclusions: Luxury accommodations, premium amenities, full-board meals, and guided dives
Examples of luxury liveaboards:
Conclusion
I hope all of you divers enjoy this article and gain a better understanding of the liveaboard experience in Thailand. If there’s one key takeaway, it’s that liveaboard diving in Thailand is possible year-round. With both the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea offering incredible underwater adventures, Thailand has something for every diver. No matter which liveaboard option you choose, the experience will be truly unforgettable—a once-in-a-lifetime journey beneath the waves.
If you’d like to learn more about liveaboard diving in Thailand, have specific questions, or need help finding the right liveaboard for your needs, feel free to contact us here. If you already know what you want, you can book your liveaboard trip with us here.
At Giant Stride, we offer a best price guarantee, ensuring that our prices match or beat any other website—even when booking directly with the liveaboard operator. Check out our liveaboard booking page to explore the boats in our network.
And finally—enjoy your dives and stay safe on all your scuba adventures!
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