Khao Lak, Thailand
14 dives
We’ve partnered with Andaman Turtle Watch to offer a unique 4-night conservation-focused diving experience in the Similan Islands. This educational expedition combines our renowned diving standards with hands-on turtle research opportunities.
Contribute to real citizen science through photo-identification research while diving strategically selected sites with high turtle encounter potential. This field-based research expedition emphasizes learning and conservation over wildlife tourism – turtle sightings aren’t guaranteed, but every dive supports meaningful marine conservation efforts.
Perfect for divers seeking an educational adventure that makes a difference.
Our itinerary combines the must-see North Andaman dive sites with research-priority locations, focusing on known turtle habitats and photo-identification hotspots to maximize both your diving experience and conservation impact.
As the top contributor to Andaman Turtle Watch’s turtle database during the 2024-2025 season, we bring proven expertise in turtle research and data collection. Join our successful conservation efforts and help us continue leading the way in citizen science diving.
Join marine biologist Eve Pilmore, BSC from Andaman Turtle Watch as your onboard expert throughout the trip. She’ll lead educational sessions and guide you through hands-on turtle research activities.
Our Similan Liveaboard itinerary is designed to show you the best of the Similan and Surin National Parks while maximizing turtle research opportunities. We spend the first five dives around the Similan Islands – excellent sites for turtle encounters, before heading north to Koh Bon and Koh Tachai for day two. Day three we head to the Surin National Park and the world famous Richelieu Rock. After our sunset dive at Richelieu we slowly cruise south to Koh Bon, ready for our last two dives in the morning before returning to Khao Lak.
Throughout the itinerary, dive sites are selected to balance must-see locations with Andaman Turtle Watch’s research priorities, giving you incredible diving alongside meaningful conservation participation.
Offers en-suite facilities with hot showers, a king-size double bed. (Large single bed available for single occupancy).
Enjoy comfort with views of the islands, a small desk area, fridge, clothes storage and a safe.
Located on the starboard side, offering en-suite facilities with hot showers. Our smart bed system allows the choice of a double bed or twin bunks.
Also features a small desk area, clothes storage and two safes.
With our smart bed system for either double bed or twin bunks, with shared bathrooms. Four shared bathrooms are located on the lower deck.
Also features a small desk area, clothes storage and two safes.
Ideal for groups looking to share or single travellers on a tighter budget. Each bunk has a storage area, private shelf, reading light, safe, with shared bathrooms.
Four shared bathrooms are located on the lower deck.
Park fees are mandatory
*for non-Thai divers
Required by Thai law
*temporary insurance available
Required for each diver
*available to rent
For the best deal book direct. We’ll match any price you get offered for our dive trips.
Book now and pay later.
Cancellation due to Covid or official travel restrictions:
30 days or more 100% refund – 1,000 THB processing fee or you can reschedule FOC within 24 months of your departure date.
30 days or less no refund but you can reschedule FOC within 24 months of departure date.
Please be advised that sea turtle sightings are not guaranteed on this trip. The liveaboard itinerary is designed by Big Blue Diving Khao Lak in partnership with Andaman Turtle Watch, with a primary focus on education, citizen science research, photo identification, and marine conservation.
The dive sites and daily schedule are carefully chosen to align with Andaman Turtle Watch’s research objectives, which means that sea turtle sightings are possible and likely, but never guaranteed due to the unpredictable nature of marine wildlife encounters. This is a field-based educational and research experience, not a wildlife tourism product offering assured sightings.
Participants are encouraged to join with an open and curious mindset, understanding that meaningful conservation work does not always involve direct animal encounters. The trip’s strong educational component is central to its design, ensuring that even without sightings, the experience remains enriching, purposeful, and rewarding.
Andaman Turtle Watch enforces a strict Code of Conduct for responsible wildlife interactions. Any guest who fails to follow the guidelines or is observed engaging in inappropriate behavior will be prohibited from participating in diving activities for the remainder of the trip. We promote a hands-off, non-invasive approach to conservation, with education and awareness as our primary goals.
Thank you for supporting sea turtle conservation through ethical and informed travel.
Why not order now and we will have it waiting for you on your arrival on-board the MV Blue Dolphin.
There’s nothing like owning your own mask or fins. Here is a selection of our Similan liveaboard essentials
