Diving Similan Islands & Koh Bon Liveaboard MV White Manta

5 days away from work for a good time of pure relaxation in Phuket and diving the Similans was absolutely fabulous. The plan to dive Hin Daeng/ Hin Muang was changed due to rumours of bad visibility and choppy waters at the famous pinnacles off Koh Lanta. Further up north in the Similans and Koh Bon, conditions were however perfect! Sunny weather, calm seas, excellent visibility and overwhelming sightings of Manta Rays were reported at Koh Bon.

LOB MV White Manta Photo: http://www.WhiteManta.com

There were a total of 21 divers from Singapore. It was to be a fun-filled 3 days on board MV White Manta. The companionship of a bunch of great new friends, good food, excellent diving and the comfort of living on board the luxurious vessel, pretty summarises an unforgettable holiday.

From left: Yi Xiu, Ellyn, Meilin, Dorothy and Josephine against the backdrop of sunset at Koh Bon

Most divers onboard were very proficient and experienced. I was privileged to be enjoying bottom time with these water-confident people. With keen eagle eyes, we were able to see and shared lots of exciting wonders of the blue together. From beautiful tiny macro like shrimps, crabs and nudibranchs to large majestic pelagics like the Manta Rays, Leopard Sharks and Great Barracudas. The proliferation and good mix of both big and small stuffs made the Similans a place highly recommended to dive over and over again. The magical experience with the gracefully flying Manta rays at Koh Bon was definitely the most memorable. The island was full of them gliding peacefully through the water, coming close to divers and leaving most of us in a jaw-dropping awe. For a moment, I thought I was in Sangalaki, the capital of Manta rays. They sort of welcomed us when we first arrived, frolicking and breaking the surface with their huge dorsal fins.

We did a total of 10 dives; with 6 in the Similans; 3 at Koh Bon and the last one at Boonsung wreck near Khao Lak. All dives were amazing and varied. The full fledging season of the Andaman Sea will definitely guarantee you a dive time of your life!

Stay tuned for the Similans Trip Report....