Similan Islands Liveaboards – Granite Boulders and Easy Reefs
The Similan Islands sit about 70 km off the west coast of Thailand, in the Andaman Sea. Giant granite boulders above and below the water make swim-throughs and arches, and the east side has easy, colourful reefs. It’s one of the most popular first liveaboards in Asia. The national park is only open from 15 October to 15 May.
Who the Similans Work For
Open Water Divers
Most sites suit you
First Liveaboard
Short trips
Photographers
Snorkelling Partners
Shallow bays
Freedivers
You Can See
Boulders, Reefs and Big Fish
Granite Boulders
Arches and swim-throughs between giant rocks.
Easy Reefs
Calm, shallow coral slopes on the east side.
Coral Gardens
Healthy hard coral and reef fish.
Mantas
Possible at Koh Bon, part of the same park.
Ready to pick your boat?
Seen on a Recent Trip
A Taste of the Andaman
A short look at diving in Thailand. Most Similan trips also visit Koh Bon & Koh Tachai and Richelieu Rock.
Where You’ll Dive
Similan Dive Sites
Elephant Head Rock
Granite boulders with arches and swim-throughs. Current can be strong.
East of Eden
A gentle coral slope with soft coral and lots of reef fish.
Christmas Point
Boulders and arches on the north side, with big fish in the channels.
Boonsoong Wreck
A tin dredger off Khao Lak, often the first or last dive, full of fish and macro life.
Your guide chooses sites each day based on current and visibility.
Hot Picks
Liveaboards We Recommend for the Similans
The Junk
A 33 m wooden sailing junk built in 1962, for 18 guests. Similan & Surin trips of 4 to 6 nights.
View boat →
Raga
A 37 m steel boat, refitted in 2024, for 28 guests. Similan, Koh Bon, Koh Tachai and Richelieu Rock in 4 nights.
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Krishna 3
Built in 2025, for 24 guests. Similan – Koh Bon – Richelieu trips, plus South Andaman weeks.
View boat →Short Trip or Longer Route?
3 to 4 Nights
The Similans, Koh Bon, Koh Tachai and Richelieu Rock in a few days. A good first liveaboard.
5 to 6 Nights
More dives and more time in the north. See our Surin Islands page.
Life Aboard
Life on an Andaman Liveaboard
Want a special offer for the Similans?
Message us directly — we’ll match you to the right boat and dates within the park season.
Chat on WhatsAppGet Ready
Before You Book Your Similan Trip
Your First Liveaboard
Read more →
Seasickness: What Actually Works
Read more →
What to Pack for a Liveaboard
Read more →Why BookDiveBoat for the Similans?
The Similan season is short and the best weeks fill early. We work with trusted Thai liveaboards and help you choose the trip length and boat that fit your level and dates.
FAQ
Similan Islands Liveaboard Questions
When can I dive the Similan Islands?
Are the Similans good for beginners?
How long are Similan liveaboard trips?
Can I see mantas and whale sharks?
Where do trips leave from?
How warm is the water?
Book Your Similan Liveaboard
No card needed. Reply under 1 hour.
