Hi divers,
I am wondering if anybody can offer insight into how the following three places compare: Maldives, Similans or Andamans.
I would be planning to dive on a liveaboard (unless in Havelock) in early November. My understanding is that visibility should be good in all three spots.
I will be on a budget - have any budget travelers done a Maldives liveabaoard? Prices look comparable to Thailand. Is this accurate?
Thanks for any input.
Opus
Hello
what do you mean by Andamans ? South of Phuket , Phi Phi ?
I would recommand Similans rather to Andamans but there is no match with Maldives (You need to book a cruising for Similans and you need to go from one island to the other in the Similans when you can just reach 30 different sites from one Maldivian Atoll). The sea life is also much richer in Maldives and you will hardly be able to spot any big fish in Thai waters.
Judging from his message, the OP means the Andaman islands, India (hence the mention of Havelock).
Right. I was looking into the Andaman Islands, off the coast of India. Based upon my research, my understanding is now that the Similan Islands probably have better diving than the Andaman Islands/Havelock. Andamans have adventure, though, and look like a wild place to visit.
I think that the Similans also probably have coral that is as good, if not better, than in the Maldives. Maldives have bigger fish and pelagics.
Maldives are more expensive and the experience would be all about the diving. It would not be a cultural experience in any way. I have opted for Similans - good diving, good coral, good price and all the beauty of Thailand (above the water).