Mergui Island Expedition – North Route

(3nights 4days)

Duration: 3night 4day
Coverage: Kawthaung (Myanmar)/ Ranong (Thailand) – Barwell Island – Mid Group Islands – Nyaung Wee Island – Tar Yar Island – Lampi National Park – Kyun Phi Lar Island – Za Det Kale Kyun Island – Kawthaung
Accommodation: onboard a luxury yacht
Meal: Full board meal, water and soft drink on board as per itinerary
Best time to go: October to April
Getting to the yacht: Kawthaung (in Myanmar), transfers can also be arrange for the arrival and departure in Ranong, Phuket, Surathani Airport, Khao Lak and Krabi in Thailand. See detail here.

Discover the prestine and untouched nature of Mergui Archipelago in unparalleled luxury aboard expedition!

 

Be one of the first to explore an untouched world!

Think white beaches lined with palm trees and dense jungle. Think swimming in azure water amongst colourful reef fish, spotting corals, and collecting seashells. Now, picture eagles circling above, gibbons and monitor lizards eyeing you from the thickets, while a sundowner is being mixed for you on board the yacht. And best of all: you have this entire experience to yourself. You can sail for days on end and meet not a soul but the odd fisherman
in a dugout canoe.

 

Visit Mokan, the nomadic Sea Gypsies

The traditional inhabitants of the Mergui Archipelago are the Moken, a people who live off, and on, the sea.
Sometimes called “sea-gypsies”, this ethnic minority group leads a traditional, semi-nomadic lifestyle, dominated by diving for sea cucumbers, fishing and bartering.

 

A Paradise all for yourself!

Explore tropical forests, hiking through valleys and up hills, walk along kilometres of beach with the only foot prints those behind you, kayak through enchanted mangroves, swim, snorkel, and go fishing: you’ve
got it all. The Mergui Archipelago is teeming with wildlife.
Due to government neglect and the region’s long isolation, its 800 plus islands have remained virtually untouched. They are composed of limestone and granite and vary in size from tiny to islands larger than Singapore.
Most of them (we have yet to find one that isn’t) are covered in thick jungle growth, which drops into azure waters, interrupted only by beaches, rocky headlands, tidal rivers, and mangrove forests. Lampi, one the largest islands, is part national park and home to some of the planet’s oldest mangrove forests.

 

Experience

Barefoot Luxury49
Cruise in style on a classic sailing yacht. Immerse yourself in a world of serenity and natural beauty that few people have ever visited.

Paradise Beaches

Phuket to Myanmar sailing trip Feb 2013

White sand, emerald jungle and not a soul in sight. You could spend weeks discovering new beaches every day. Which one’s your favourite?

Discover and Explore

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Travel back to the age of discovery. Sail amongst hundreds of jungle-covered islands. Meet the Moken sea nomads.

On board spa

A woman with a beautiful view from her condo in Acapulco. She is treating herself to a luxury massage on her balcony. Natural sunlight

You lie in the shade, gliding across the sea. A personal massage therapist ensures your complete relaxation. If you like the idea, just let us know!

Amazing Food

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Get spoilt with three multi-course meals a day by your dedicated chef. We specialise in Thai cuisine but do let us know your preferences!

Underwater Encounters

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Swim and snorkel to your heart’s content – you are surrounded by your private pool. Or book a private dive charter to explore the best underwater spots.

MY Drenec

Explore in style

Drenec was built in The Netherlands as a working boat designed to spend long weeks on the open seas. In 1986, she underwent a major overhaul and was reborn as a high-class expedition vessel. Drenec spent the following years on expeditions to the Arctic, the Indian Ocean, Central American waters and the Mediterranean. In 2012, she was completely refitted and upgraded in Malta with the interior designed by Sophie Bouakel-Kastelein.

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Cabins & Quarters

Drenec has five spacious guest cabins, four with double beds and one with a twin bed. All cabins have ensuite bathrooms equipped with heated towel holders and the large owner’s suite additionally features a bathtub.
With designated workspaces and sofas, the cabins feel like comfortable hotel rooms, designed with great love for detail.
All cabins are fully air-conditioned and have flatscreen TV sets. Guests have access to the large digital movie library through the yacht’s on-board media system.
Drenec has all the luxury comfort you can expect from a yacht of her size.

Decks: main, upper and sun deck all covered with teak, with teak-varnished handrails Cabins: 1 owner’s suite, 4
staterooms, each with individual bathrooms, air-con, etc.

Activities: 2 canoes; water skiing, snorkelling, diving, stand-up paddle board Entertainment: library, movie library, on-board spa service Communication: Satellite phone, satellite internet, HF and VHF radio.

View Details>>

What’s included?

All on-board meals, all nonalcoholic drinks, all activities as per itinerary, fuel, etc.

 

What is not included?

Visa fees (~US$40 per person, subject to changes), transfers to and from the yachts (see under price and dates), Mergui Archipelago zone fees US$250 per person.

 

Do I need to know how to sail?

No. Our experienced crew can do all the sailing for you while you relax. If you like, our crew can involve you and teach you sailing basics.

 

Can I sail myself?

Absolutely. You can get as involved as you like. From navigating to setting sails and steering the boat – you or your entire group can crew the ship. If you have enough sailing experience, you can even be the skipper.

 

How do I get there?

We can arrange to pick you up anywhere in the area – it’s up to you. We recommend meeting you on Phuket Island in Thailand, which has an international airport and is very easy to get to, or in Kawthaung in Myanmar’s south, just across the border from Thailand and a 5-hour car/bus ride from Phuket. Click here for more information.

 

Will I need a visa for Myanmar?

Yes. Most travellers will get a visa-on-arrival in Myanmar and we will take care of the procedure when you enter the country while you relax or explore. It takes no time at all. Please ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the end of your cruise. Click here for more information.

 

Is it safe to travel in Myanmar’s Mergui Archipelago?

Yes, it is!
There are no violent conflicts in our sailing area, nor are there any pirates.
The archipelago is not home to crocodiles and, unless you swim around with cutlets tied to your hips, you are very unlikely to attract the attention of sharks. In fact, the number of sharks in the area has unfortunately dwindled due to shark fishing.
There is a mid-level malaria risk in southern Myanmar and you should take precautions by using mosquito-repellent and wearing long sleeves and trousers if onshore at night (which you are unlikely to be much).
All guests should get a suitable travel insurance before joining our cruises.

 

Is it ethically OK to travel to Myanmar?

We think so.
Until a couple of years ago, Myanmar was shunned by most international travellers. Visiting the country was seen as endorsement of the then military dictatorship, a view supported by Aung San Suu Kyi, the pro-democracy leader. Since then, things have fundamentally changed in Myanmar and Suu Kyi has been released from house arrest. She and her party now embrace individual and ethical tourism by travellers whose money does not go straight into the pockets of the generals. We are here to support just that.

 

How do I book?

Easy. Just send us an email stating your preferred cruise dates, number of guests and preferred cabin. We will be in touch to confirm or answer your questions.
Also do let us know if you preferred to charter the whole yacht for a private cruise.

 

What about money, cash and the local currency?

The local currency is the Myanmar Kyat (MMK) with an exchange rate of 1 USD to about 1,000 MMK. Do bring cash as the newly installed ATMs in Kawthaung may not function and as credit cards are not always accepted. For any purchases in the region, you can also use Thai Bhat – the change you will receive will most likely be in Kyat.

 

What else should I bring?

You don’t need much. Bring your bathers, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, your camera and you’re pretty much set! It’s best to also bring mosquito repellent and you may want to consider bringing anti-malarial tablets. Do remember to get a travel insurance before joining our cruise. On board, you won’t need shoes but you can bring flip-flops or reef shoes for beach outings if you want.
It would be great if you could bring soft luggage instead of a hard-case suitcase so that it can be stored away more easily after unpacking.
We provide full lodging, including bedding, towels, all meals, water and soft drinks. We also provide fishing and snorkelling equipment and first-aid, if necessary.

 

What’s the best season to go?

The best time for sailing in the Mergui Archipelago is between November and end of April. The rainy season starts in May and ends in late October.

 

What will the water temperature be like?

Beautiful, during the day time 26-29°C or 79-84°F! The water temperature will be about 26-29°C.

 

How many other people will be on the yacht?

You can join our cabin charter cruises with 2 to 8 guests on Meta IV or up to 12 guests on Raja Laut. If you charter the yacht for a private cruise, it depends on you.

 

Is there on-board power, fresh water and internet?

Every cabin has power points (plus fans and air-cons). There is fresh water for showering and in the kitchen. Internet is not available on-board.

 

Will I have to share a bathroom?

Every cabin has its own bathroom and each comes with a shower, sink and toilet.

 

What kind of food do you serve?

Our chefs specialise in Asian cuisine but also serve Western dishes. Six weeks prior to departure we ask all our guests about their preferences.

Brief Itinerary

Day – 1: Kawthaung (Myanmar)/ Ranong (Thailand) – Barwell Island

Day – 2: Mid Group Islands – Nyaung Wee Island – Tar Yar Island

Day – 3: Lampi National Park – Kyun Phi Lar Island – Za Det Kale Kyun Island

Day – 4: Kawthaung

Contact us for special offers, tailor made requirements, accommodation options, pre and post sailing travel services, extensions, transfer to and from boat for arrival and departure in Kawthaung (Myanmar) or Ranong (Thailand), and zone specific on-arrival-visa that is valid for travel only in Kawthaung and Mergui Archipelago area.

Detailed Itinerary

Day1: Kawthaung (Myanmar)/ Ranong (Thailand) – Barwell Island

Boarding time is at 3 pm. The crew welcomes you aboard with a glass of champagne and takes care of official formalities. While MY Drenec boat takes course for Barwell Island, the captain introduces the area and our itinerary. Drenec’s gourmet chef serves dinner under the stars.

 

Day 2: Mid Group Island – Nyaung Wee Island – Tar Yar Island

After an early morning swim by the beach, Drenec heads towards the Mid Group: some of Myanmar’s most scenic islands. There is a picnic on the beach before we visit the Moken sea gypsy village on Nyaung Wee, where we spend the afternoon. We visit the temple and the school before heading north to Tar Yar Island. At night, the gibbons’ song from the beach lulls us to sleep.

 

Day 3: Lampi National Park – Kyun Phi Lar Island – Za Det Kale Kyun Island

After breakfast aboard, we explore the wildlife and the mangrove forests of Lampi National Park. We head towards Kyun Phi Lar and search for fossils on the shore. Back on Drenec, we make for Za Det Kale Kyun, where we celebrate the last evening with a bonfire on the beach. The setting sun turns the ocean into a sea of gold.

 

Day 4: Kawthaung

We jump into the crystal water for a swim before enjoying a long brunch on deck while Drenec makes her way back to Kawthaung. Arrival is at noon. Our crew and ground team will be there for you to assure all transfers and connections work smoothly.


Contact us for special offers, tailor made requirements, accommodation options, pre and post sailing travel services, extensions, transfer to and from boat for arrival and departure in Kawthaung (Myanmar) or Ranong (Thailand), and zone specific on-arrival-visa that is valid for travel only in Kawthaung and Mergui Archipelago area.

Sailing Dates Price (Euro) per person*
30 October to 02 November 2015 (S) € 1700
06 to 09 November 2015 (S) € 1700
13 to 16 November 2015 (S) € 1700
20 to 23 November 2015 (S) € 1700
27 to 30 November 2015 (S) € 1700
04 to 07 December 2015 (S) € 1700
11 to 14 December 2015 (S) € 1700
18 to 21 December 2015 (S) € 1700
15 to 18 January 2016 (S) € 1700
22 to 25 January 2016 (S) € 1700
29 January to 01 February 2016 (S) € 1700
05 to 08 February 2016 (S) € 1700
12 to 15 February 2016 (S) € 1700
19 to 22 February 2016 (S) € 1700
26 to 29 February 2016 (S) € 1700
04 to 07 March 2016 (S) € 1700
11 to 14 March 2016 (S) € 1700
18 to 21 March 2016 (S) € 1700
25 to 28 March 2016 (S) € 1700
01 to 04 April 2016 (S) € 1700
08 to 11 April 2016 (S) € 1700
15 to 18 April 2016 (S) € 1700
22 to 25 April 2016 (S) € 1700

* Prices are in Euro (€) per person based on twin shared cabin. We can also accept US$ payment equivalent to the above amount at the exchange rate at the time of your booking.

Contact us for tailormade itinerary, privately chartered yachts, pre and post sailing travel arrangements, transports to and from yatchs from either Kawthaung (Myanmar) or Ranong (Thailand), zone specific on arrival visa valid for travel only in Mergui Archipelago zone, domestic flight booking, extensions wihtin Myanmar and other travel requirements within Myanamr.

 

NOTE:

On arrival visa arranged in Kawthaung on this tour is valid for travel in Mergui Archipelago region only.

If your first point of entry into Myanmar on this trip is via Kawthaung/ Ranong Myanmar/ Thai border and if you are planning to travel to other destinations in Myanmar outside the Mergui Archipelago zone, you will need to obtain Myanmar Visa in your passport prior to your arrival in Myanmar. Please note that Myanmar border ports are currently not able to process a standard on-arrival-visa and eVisa that is valid for travel in Myanmar.

 

Service includes:

  • On-board accommodation based on a twin share cabin
  • All meals as per itinerary, water and soft drink
  • Use of kayak and guided expeditions as per itinerary.

 

Service excludes:

  • Domestic airfare (we can arrange flights to and from Kawthaung)
  • Transfer to and from the yacht from Kawthaung (Myanmar) or Ranong (Thailand)
  • Mergui Archipelago zone entry fees
  • Myanmar Visa (zone specific on arrival visa, which is valid to travel only in the Kawthaung and Mergui Archipelago area could be arranged for you).
  • Travel insurance
  • Expenditure on personal nature such as laundry, beverages, gratitude to guides & porters
  • Any service items not mentioned in price inclusion above.

 

Rates for road transfers on this itinerary for 2015/2016

Available transfer service Price (Euro) each way
Phuket Patong – Yacht (up to 3 pax) € 170
Phuket Patong – Yacht (up to 6 pax) € 190
Phuket Town – Yacht (up to 3 pax) € 155
Phuket Town – Yacht (up to 6 pax) € 175
Phuket Airport – Yacht (up to 3 pax) € 145
Phuket Airport – Yacht (up to 6 pax) € 165
Ranong Airport – Yacht (up to 3 pax) € 30
Ranong Airport – Yacht (up to 6 pax) € 60
Ranong Hotel – Yacht (up to 3 pax) € 15
Ranong Pier – Yacht (up to 6 pax) € 15
Kawthaung Airport – Yacht (up to 3 pax) € 30
Kawthaung Airport – Yacht (up to 6 pax) € 60
Surathani Airport – Yacht (up to 3 pax) € 120
Surathani Airport – Yacht (up to 6 pax) € 135
Khao Lak – Yacht (up to 3 pax) € 120
Khao Lak – Yacht (up to 6 pax) € 140
Krabi – Yacht (up to 3 pax) € 170
Krabi – Yacht (up to 6 pax) € 190

Transfer to and from Yacht in Kawthaung (Myanmar) and a few places in Thailand

We can arrange transfer to and from the yacht at Kawthaung pier whether you arrival or departure for onward journey is in Kawthaung on Myanmar site or Ranong, Phuket, Surathani, Khao Lak and Krabi on Thai site. Please contact us to arrange the transfer. See the rates for road transfers.

 

Domestic Flights

Current season air fares between Yangon and Kawthaung is US$198 per person each way and subject to changes by airlines for the following seasons. We can arrange your flights on request.

 

Pre and post sailing travel services

Hotels, airport transfers and other excursions before or after your arrival in Putao for our Myanmar Himalaya Tours. We can arrange these services on request.

 

Travel Insurance

It is client’s responsibility to ensure that they take a suitable travel insurance that covers for the trips and activities involved, before joining our tours.