Mandarin Queen 9 Jovanna Liveaboard Richelieu Rock and Similan Islands

MV Mandarin Queen 9 (Jovanna) – Similan & North Andaman

Embark on the MV Mandarin Queen 9 (Jovanna) and experience the best diving the North Andaman has to offer. This comfortable liveaboard takes you directly to the top dive sites of the Similan and Surin National Parks, including the world-famous Richelieu Rock, a must for every serious diver.

The Similan Islands lie 70 km offshore, making day trips long and costly. A 5-day / 4-night liveaboard 15 dives on MV Mandarin Queen 9 gives you far more value: your accommodation, meals, and multiple dives per day are all included. Instead of paying for hotels and transfers, you wake up already at the dive site, ready to explore.

Whether you’re traveling on a budget or seeking comfort, MV Mandarin Queen 9 offers a welcoming atmosphere where divers of all levels can enjoy rich marine life, stunning coral reefs, and pelagic encounters. Expect manta rays at Koh Bon, thrilling currents at Koh Tachai, and unforgettable whale shark encounters at Richelieu Rock. Along the way, you’ll meet like-minded divers, share incredible experiences, and return home with memories that last a lifetime.

Who is This Trip For?

This liveaboard is suitable for Beginner to Advanced divers. Some sites feature currents (Intermediate/Advanced), but many dives are relaxed reef sites perfect for newer divers. Nitrox is recommended for repetitive deep dives.

Why choose MV Mandarin Queen 9 (Jovanna) Liveaboard?

• Access to all the best North Andaman dive sites in one trip

• Save on hotels and transfers – eat, sleep, and dive onboard

• Comfortable cabins, great food, and friendly crew

• Perfect balance of value and experience for divers of all budgets

Itinerary MV Mandarin Queen 9 (Jovanna) 5 Days / 4

Route: Similan Islands • Koh Bon • Koh Tachai • Surin Islands • Richelieu Rock

Day 1 – Welcome Aboard & Similan Islands

• Transfer from Khao Lak / Phuket to MV Mandarin Queen 9 (Jovanna).

• Welcome briefing, cabin check-in, and dinner onboard while cruising overnight to the Similans.

• Relax under the stars and get ready for the adventure ahead.

Day 2 – Similan Islands

• 3–4 dives at world-famous Similan sites such as Anita’s Reef, Elephant Head Rock, Christmas Point, and West of Eden.

• Explore granite boulder swim-throughs, coral gardens, and colorful reef fish.

• Look out for reef sharks, octopus, and schools of trevally.

• Sunset beach visit (weather permitting).

Day 3 – Koh Bon & Koh Tachai

• Early morning cruise to Koh Bon, known for its manta ray cleaning station.

• Continue to Koh Tachai (Twin Peaks) for exhilarating dives with strong currents, barracuda schools, and pelagic action.

• Chance to encounter manta rays and whale sharks during season.

Day 4 – Surin Islands & Richelieu Rock

• Morning dives in the pristine Surin Islands, home to healthy corals, turtles, and macro life.

• Afternoon and evening dives at Richelieu Rock, one of the top dive sites in the world.

• Expect whale sharks, ghost pipefish, seahorses, harlequin shrimp, and massive schools of fish.

Day 5 – Richelieu Rock & Return to Port

• 2 morning dives at Richelieu Rock to maximize your chances of big encounters.

• Brunch onboard while cruising back toward the mainland.

• Arrive at port in the afternoon for transfers back to Phuket or Khao Lak.

Key Trip Info

• Trip Length: 5 Days / 4 Nights

• No. of Dives: Up to 14–15 dives

• Difficulty: Beginner–Advanced (some sites with currents)

• Best Season: November to April (calm seas, best visibility, peak manta & whale shark season)

Depending on location, you’ll arrive back to your hotel in Phuket at approximately 7pm – 8:30 pm.

Boat Features & Facilities

• 4 Decks – Lower Deck, Main Deck, Upper Deck & Sun Deck

• Dive Platform with 4 showers for easy rinsing after dives

• Free Nitrox for up to 15 dives (for certified divers)

• Bathrooms – 2 on the Main Deck + 2 Restrooms on the Upper Deck

• Dedicated Camera Room – spacious setup area with 5 workstations for underwater photography gear

• Freshwater Maker – onboard system converting seawater into freshwater

• Rinse Tanks – separate tanks provided for dive gear and camera equipment

• Kitchen & Dining – 4 buffet-style meals daily, offering Thai & Western dishes; vegetarian & vegan options available on request

• Sundeck with Jacuzzi – large open space for sunbathing and relaxing between dives

• Spacious Indoor Saloon – entertainment area with TV, music system, and gaming zone featuring PlayStation 5 & Nintendo

• Refrigerator & Snack Bar – complimentary soft drinks, tea, coffee, milk, bread, fruit & snacks available all day

What’s Included in Your Thailand Liveaboard Adventure

• Up to 15 dives across Similan & North Andaman’s top sites
• 4 days of diving
• Round trip transfers from Khao Lak and Phuket areas – Thaplamu pier
• Full Board freshly cooked meals  All meals onboard: Thai & international cuisine,
• Water, tea, coffee, soft drinks, Fresh Fruit & snacks during the day, (Good to bring your own re-useable water bottle on trip)
• 12-litre tanks for 15 dives – Weight belt/weights
• Small groups. 4-5 Divers : 1 Dive Leader
• Wifi onboard (normally only at or near Similan & Surin Islands)

What’s Not Included

•  Similan & Surin National Park entry & diving fees (approx. THB 1,800 per person)
•  Scuba gear rental (full set approx. THB 500–700 per day)
• Nitrox fills (optional for certified divers)
• Alcoholic beverages & specialty coffees
• Crew tips / gratuitiesDive insurance (highly recommended)
• Dive insurance (highly recommended)