Live-aboards in Thailand

The term 'live-aboard' means exactly what the name implies; the boat actually becomes a home or a floating hotel with the divers living onboard. The class and standard of these 'floating hotels' can vary greatly in exactly the same way as land-based accommodation.

The standard of live-aboards in Thailand ranges from a converted fishing boat with a handful of mattresses slung about its decks and a compressor strapped to an old car tire, through to large spacious yachts with state-of-the-art sailing equipment.

Operators generally sail to the first destination at night. This allows the quests to awaken fresh and ready for the first day's diving after breakfast rather than having to wait for the boat to arrive at the first site. Nightly departures also maximize the daylight hours for diving.

All classes of 'cruise' are regularly scheduled from Koh Phuket, Pattaya, and a few more but will only sail when there is sufficient demand; it is always best to confirm actual departures in advance. Depending on the intended destination, live-aboard excursions have duration of between three and fifteen days. The longer the trip, the more important onboard comfort becomes. If it's your first experience of live-aboards it' s advisable to select one of the shorter, but extremely enjoyable excursions such as visiting the Similan Islands from Phuket.

Life onboard the boats is extremely relaxing – the only time guests are required to assemble their diving equipment is on the first day, after that the crew take charge and divers can just do their kit and dive dive, and more diving!

Another great aspect of live-aboard is that if the intended site is unsuitable due to bad weather, strong currents or even the presence of other boats, it's only a few minutes journey to an equally enjoyable site.

Some live-aboard operators follow set itineraries, with a minimum of three scheduled dives every day, while others unlimited diving. Unlimited diving is only recommended if diving with a computer (which can be rented from the operator).

Night diving is usually possible every night but if you would rather stay on board there are usually other activities to keep you amused such as videos, music, karaoke or just talking with other passengers and the crew. And there is always a log book to be filled out!