Credits: Drama Queen Quickpage by Daniela Austen
Call us crazy but at the height of Bangkok’s uprising, we were on the plane to Phuket, via Singapore of course. We were to embark on a 4 -day dive safari.
Located along the coastline of the Andaman Seas and the Indian Ocean, Koh Similan or the Similan Islands comprises of 9 granite island covered in tropical jungle and is best known for its wonders beneath its clear aquamarine waters.
The Similans is located about 100 kilometers northwest of Phuket International Airport.
It is more than an hour drive to Thap Lamu Port where we boarded the MV Koon, our home for the next 4 days.
Briefing before a dive with divemaster Chris
As it takes about 3.5 hours to get to the Similans, most dive trips are by liveaboard if one wants to fully explore the dive sites. There are hydrofoils, however, being offered from Phuket for a 2-dive day trip.
We left Thap Lamu Port just before sundown and our journey started with a bang (literally).
Thais, being Buddhists, always light a few firecrackers, I suppose, to drive away bad spirits and be blessed with a safe journey.
And blessed we were, with a beautiful sunset which will be a daily happening for the next 3 nights.
Sunrise from 2 different mornings
Not only were sunsets spectacular, the sunrises were dazzling too.
We also had a regular visitor that came to play!
MV Koon is operated by Flying FishDiving Evolution and fits 16 guests. Aside from a couple of foreigners (1 American and the other Spanish), we practically had the boat to ourselves.
The cabins, albeit tiny were comfortable, making good use of space. Toilets and showers, although shared, were clean and not too cramp.
I like it that the dining area was al fresco. We spent most of our hours on board here. My only complaint was the food.
It was pretty good but I would have preferred more authentic Thai cuisine. We (at least those of us who could take hot & spicy) almost always end up sharing the crew’s food. Heehee! 😀
Eat. Dive. Sleep. That was pretty much what we did aboard the MV Koon. It was a good life on board the MV Koon. Our home while in the Andaman Seas.
Up next… exploring the beautiful Island # 8 also called Donald Duck Bay. Stay tuned.
You’re such a wanderlust and that’s so good. How many countries have you visited so far?
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Quite an adventure.
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what an adventure! spectacular sunrises and sunsets, underwater paradise and spicy food–life as it should be!
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Hi ewok! Yes I am… can’t help it. I have not counted but one thing’s for sure — the more I travel, the more place I want to explore. A lifetime may not be enough for my growing list!
J and Luna, it was definitely an adventure and coupled with great company — super fun!
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Going diving during the riots sounds like a very sensible thing to do! I was in Chiang Mai for most of it, but did pass through Bangkok for a few days of it, and it really doesn’t compare to your glorious sunsets from the Similans. And I have to agree with you – Thai crews always have the best food 🙂
Thanks for sharing your world!
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I have not been to Phuket yet, the sun rise shots are terrific. Truly wonderful memories. 🙂
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Wow! What beautiful pictures! I don’t like very spicy food so that would not have worked for me. But, I would gladly have settled for fresh produce just to be able to visit such a pretty place.
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these are amazing sunset shots but the other shots are equally stunning. great job.
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simple amazing, it is surely quite an adventure.
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That looks incredible, the sunset on day 3 looks surreal. I love spicy food so I would have been sharing the crew’s food if they let me!
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