Some of the best diving and least disturbed parts of Thailand can be found in the Andaman Sea islands of Similan and Surin.  The Similan Islands chain lies some 40 miles west from the Thai mainland and the Surin Islands are another 60 miles north on the maritime border of Burma (Myanmar).  Both of these areas are National Marine Parks.

These islands are usually reached from Phuket and as you travel out to them you will see the water becoming clearer and clearer as you get there.  There is some stunning marine life in these offshore islands with excellent fish schools and attractive underwater granite boulder scenery and swim throughs.

Above the water, these islands are without human settlement but well stocked in native island vegetation and wildlife such as huge fruit bats which you can see flying between the islands at dusk.  Anchoring amongst these islands in the Andaman Sea provides a wonderful sense of being amongst the best of what natural Thailand can offer.  Each island has some beautiful secluded beaches and attractive rocky shorelines.

Between these two island groups is a submerged rock called Richelieu Rock.  This is one of the best places in South East Asia to see whale sharks, especially between April and May.  Snorkelling is often as good as diving here because many of the best reefs lie at a depth of no more than 6 metres.

We explore this area in true traditional Asian style, using a traditional sailing 'junk' originally built in Malaysia.  After many years used as a trading ship, she was abandoned before being rescued and underwent extensive repairs to make her seaworthy again.  She was then refitted to turn her into one of the most beautiful and appropriate platforms from which to explore Thailand's remote islands.

Diving and sailing safaris from Phuket to the Similans, Surin and Richelieu operate October to May which is outside of the main South West Monsoon season.  Divers will have the opportunity to dive throughout the day which will often mean about 3-4 dives per day.  The large deck space and airy pilot house make this an ideal platform for divers and non-diver alike.

Click here for sample itinerary

Prices (Phuket to Phuket) Non-Divers Single berth in a shared triple / quad cabin from £780 per person Berth in double or twin cabin from £1090 per person sharing Divers Single berth in a shared triple / quad cabin from £860 per person Berth in double or twin cabin from £1190 per person sharing Single occupancy of a double or twin cabin add £675 All cabins are air conditioned with an en suite bathroom and hot water showers. Price includes Transfer to / from the vessel within Phuket, whether from a hotel or the airport. Full board onboard. All diving for divers. Air and weights. English speaking Dive Master and Dive Guide. Teas, coffees and soft drinks. Linen and towels. Price excludes Flights to / from Phuket (can be arranged). Dive equipment rental. Alcoholic beverages. National Marine park entry fees (1800 Baht** = approx £31**) Tips. Visas. Insurance. **Correct at time of writing

Photographs kindly provided by John Gray, Ralph Pannell, June Hong Chian Lee, Frank de Groot