Diving the Mergui Archipelago and Burma Banks

Mergui Archipelago scuba diving features

MARINE LIFE:
whalesharks
nurse sharks
tiger tail seahorses
soft corals

MYANMAR'S TOP DIVE SITE:
Western Rocky

DESTINATION OVERVIEW
An extension of the same island system that includes the Similans in Thailand, the reefs that lie over the border in Myanmar waters are as diverse as their southern neighbours. Just as full of small fish, possibly more pelagic creatures and equally pristine corals, the only reason these dives are less well known is due to the political situation in Myanmar.

Politics aside, many Thai liveaboard operators have special permits to cross over to the Mergui Archipelago and it is well worth seeing the reefs there. It's not that it's so different, with the conditions, visibility and so on much the same, but these reefs get far fewer divers and that makes it feel like there is so much more to discover. The most exciting site in this area is Western Rocky, a large pinnacle that is reminiscent of Richelieu Rock to the south – and yes, there are whalesharks there, too.

The other big attraction is the remote Burma Banks, which are well known for their shark populations. Although targeted by illegal fishing from time to time, the authorities have managed to gain some control and you are almost guaranteed to see nurse, silvertip, black and whitetip sharks. Most boats will conduct a controlled shark feed: you may not agree with this, but it one of the rare moments when you get to see these apex predators.

Seasons
November to May
Visibility:
10 – 40 metres
Water temperature:
25 – 29º C.
Deco chambers:
Bangkok and Phuket

Flights to Phuket direct, from Manila or Singapore

Dive operators and accommodation options are plentiful but the last couple of years have seen a lot changes in the liveaboard scene. Research online for the latest recommendations.

PROS AND CONS
Access to this region is via Phuket in Thailand (refer to this page), which is always easy. However, getting from there to Myanmar (Burma) means getting on a liveaboard. There is a wide variety of liveaboards for all budgets. All formalities for crossing the border will be handled by the crew so it doesn't actually feel like you are entering a different country.

SCUBA DIVING
Dive sites are very similar to those further south in the Similans. The season is from November to May, although the beginning and end months can be rough and the visibility lower depending on when the monsoon hits. In the middle of the season the water is mostly mill-pond smooth and you can see for ever.

OPINION
We've done this area twice, both times from a Thai liveaboard. The Mergui Archipelago is a wonderful extension to the dive sites to the south and we have seen animals there we would have been lucky to see anywhere else. An added bonus is that these reefs are also less visited and far less crowded. Some people might want to consider the current situation in Burma and the worldwide view on local politics.