MV Manta Queen 8

Manta Queen 8 is a Similan diving liveaboard that joined the fleet in November 2017. There are three types of cabin to choose from, most have a private bathroom and all are air-conditioned. The best-value cabins have 2 bunk beds, but still offer storage space &  privacy. These are ideal for divers on a budget. For more privacy but still at an unbeatable price, Manta Queen 8 has twin & double cabins that have private en-suite bathrooms. 

There are several communal areas where guests can relax in groups, pairs or alone. These include the sundeck and the large dining area. There is plenty of space even for a full boat. The delicious food is plentiful, and many non-alcoholic drinks are for free. Soft drinks and beer is available at reasonable prices. 

Each trip departs in the evening and the diving starts early the following morning. On the first day you dive around the Similan Islands, then MQ8 sails north to Koh Bon, Koh Tachai & Richelieu Rock. Then on its way back it stops again at Koh Bon and visits Boonsung Wreck on the final day. Unlike some other 5D/5N trips that give you 18 dives, on MQ8 you get 19. Please note that a few other websites try to mislead you about the length of the trips, by showing them to be 6D/5N. This is incorrect. Although each trip includes six calendar dates, the evening departure and afternoon return mean that they are less than 5 days. Please do not trust websites which aim to mislead you.

The trips are unbeatable value for divers who want to enjoy the maximum dives & luxury for the minimum money spent. 10 of the 12 cabins have en suite bathrooms & windows, and the boat has an air-conditioned lounge/saloon. The dining areas and dive platform are spacious & well designed, meaning that everyone feels safe & comfortable at all times. There is also free Wi-Fi, when in range.

The newest & most-luxurious addition to the Manta Queen liveaboard fleet, MQ8 is often fully booked. This is mainly due to the great value of its 19-dive 5D/5N trips. In addition to good-value PADI courses, Nitrox, and delicious food, the whole vibe on board is relaxing & fun. Trips depart from Khao Lak in the evening after you have been picked up from your hotels or Phuket airport.