MV Lapat

MV Lapat is a new Similan liveaboard diving boat launched in November 2016. Designed by divers, for divers, the boat is specifically built for diving cruises in Thailand’s Andaman Sea, including Richelieu Rock. New for the 2018-2019 season, Lapat will offer flexible liveaboard trips. This means that guests can join on any day, and stay as long as they choose. Of course, this depends on cabin availability. The advantage of flexible trips is that the Similan diving cruise can fit with your holiday schedule, and not the other way around. From the communal areas to the cabins and dive deck, this boat is perfect for couples, solo divers, friends, families, and groups of diving club members.

Starting with the cabins, MV Lapat has 8 cabins on its main deck, each accommodating no more than 2 guests. All the cabins are air-conditioned and designed to be comfortable and practical. There are six twin cabins which have bunk beds and two double bed cabins. Each cabin has its own large window, enabling guests to enjoy privacy and natural light. Also on the boat’s main deck are the shared bathrooms and the large and well-designed diving deck. This is where everyone’s diving equipment is stored and where divers take a giant stride entry into the crystal-clear water of the Andaman Sea. MV Lapat has a communication system that enables the captain to see what’s happening on the dive deck and give the all clear for entry. Divers who are unable to return directly to the rear of the boat at the end of their dive can be picked up by Lapat’s motorized dinghy, which is also used for transfers to the pristine beaches of The Similan Islands, such as Donald Duck Bay.

The upper deck of MV Lapat has indoor and covered outdoor areas. The lounge saloon is air-conditioned. The design is modern, but designed to be easily cleaned & durable. Guests can relax in the saloon to escape the heat of the daytime or watch a video in the evening. At the rear of the upper deck is the dining area that is well designed and covered from sunshine and rain. Here, guests spend most of the time socialising in small groups or enjoying the sumptuous food that is served buffet-style throughout each day. Diving is hungry work, and the kitchen staff on MV Lapat pride themselves on preparing the tastiest dishes of local and western food, always with a vegetarian option.

The top deck of Lapat is for sun worshippers and star gazers. Here the exposed sundeck is where the best views of the surrounding sea are enjoyed. Sometimes guests even choose to sleep under the stars.

Each diver on MV Lapat is placed into a group of no more than 4 with a Divemaster guide. The groups are chosen by the experience and certification level of each diver, but special requests are always taken into account. The first dive of each trip is at an easier dive site to enable everyone to become comfortable and the team to assess each diver’s needs. There is a selection of courses available on Lapat as well as equipment for hire.