MV Manta Queen 1

MV Manta Queen 1 offers some of the best-value Similan Island diving safaris available. There are three different cabin options, all of which are air-conditioned. The 4-bed shared cabin is the cheapest and most sociable, while there are also twin bunk cabins for more privacy and double bed cabins for couples. The boat is nearly 30 metres long, making her longer than most at this price, and safe and stable on the water. She takes a maximum of 22 guests on each trip, and these divers are separated into groups of no more than five per Divemaster. Usually this is done to group together divers of similar levels and experience, but can often end up being groups of friends or couples. Budget travellers and backpackers find diving on Manta Queen 1 ideal, especially considering that pick up from hotels and guest houses in the local area is included in the price. She is a comfortable vessel and offers very sociable trips at almost unbeatable prices. There are large sundeck and saloon areas for relaxing between dives and in the evenings. But due to the boat’s size, there’s always somewhere to find some privacy, although most guests enjoy each others’ company until it’s time for bed. She has a dinghy to retrieve divers who have surfaced too near the reef or to transport any passengers to beaches or snorkelling areas.

Although not the newest boat in the Manta Queen fleet, MQ1 is still very much a favourite among the staff and most guests. This is mainly down to the large size of the boat, designed more for comfort than to cram in as many as possible. Also, the experienced crew and captain ensure that every trip runs smoothly, safely and with lots of fun.

Many divers choose to take part in a PADI diving course aboard Manta Queen 1, and these are extremely-good value. PADI Advanced Open Water Diver and Nitrox (Enriched Air) are the most popular. Of course, there are Nitrox filling facilities aboard Manta Queen 1, as well as other amenities to maximize guests’ safety, comfort and convenience. All meals, tea & coffee, snacks and drinking water are all free, as well as pick up and drop off in Khao Lak areas on the days of departure and return. Phuket transfers are now charged at 250 THB / day, but are availabel at convenient times and on any day.