The Mokan Explorers – 5

The adventure Cruise and excursions in Mergui Archipelago & Myanmar Andaman Islands

(5night 6day Adventure Cruise)

Discover the untouched world, amazingly rich marine life, incredible biodiversity and paradise desert islands in some of the 800 or more islands in Mergui Archipelago.
Explore the rich biodiversity and marine life of Mergui Archipelago and the culture Mokan/ Salone, nomadic sea gypsies.
Enjoy island hopping on a live-aboard cruise, jungle trekking, wild life watching, sport fishing, sea kayaking, swimming and snorkeling in the clear blue water!

Start in Kawthaung and finishes in Myeik!

Duration: 5nights 6days
Coverage: Kawthaung – Taung La Bo – 115 Island – Nga Man Island – Kyun Phila – 254 Island – Salet Galet Island – Marble Island – Wal Island – Mergui Island – Myeik
Accommodation: on board a live-aboard diving boat
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 (hotel, jetty, airport) in THAILAND.
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Fleet

Mergui Princess

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MV Mergui Princess Cruise is an 80 feet long, fast and comfortable wooden boat. It was built in Myeik and Kawthaung in Myanmar, designed for adventure cruises in Myanmar Andaman Sea. I can accommodate up to 16 guests and 5 crew.

 
 

Cabins & Quarters

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  • Three airconditioned master/ family bedrooms with shower and toilet.
  • Two airconditioned king sized bedrooms
  • Three airconditioned twin rooms
  • Three separate toilets and showers.
  • Dinning room
  • Sitting area
  • Sundeck

View Details>>

Brief Itinerary

Day 1: Kawthaung – Taung La Bo – 115 Island

Day 2: 115 Island – Nga Man Island – Kyun Phila

Day 3: Kyun Phila – 254 Island – Salet Galet Island

Day 4: Salet Galet – Marble Island

Day 5: Marble Island – Wal Island – Mergui Island

Day 6: Mergui Island – Myeik
 
NOTE:
We reserves the right to change the itineraries (rearranging the order of the tour programs, to cancel or substitute places to visit) at any time without prior notice depending on the weather, operational and local conditions. Customers are liable to pay for all the supplementary and extra costs that may occur due to these changes. Please also ensure your travel insurance covers for the extra costs incurred due to unforeseen circumstances.
 
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

Day 1: Kawthaung (Myanmar) – Taung La Bo – 115 Island
Our service starts from Myoma Jetty in Kawthaung. After arrival in Kawthaung, embark on Mergui Princess boat. Depart to Taung La Bo Island for 3 hours. We will stop here for snorkelling and swimming near the island for one hour. Late morning/ early afternoon at leisure while the crew and the cook prepare for lunch. Enjoy the lunch on board. Continue to 115 Island. There is a list of exciting activities you can do such as sea kayaking around the island, snorkelling, fishing, jungle trekking, swimming, sun bathing on the beach and exploring the virgin island. Dinner and overnight on board nearby 115 island. (_, L, D)
 
Day 2: 115 Island – Nga Man Island – Kyun Phila
After the breakfast on board, swim nearby. Leave for Nga Mann Kyunn which has beautiful hard and soft corals as well as Nurse Sharks. There is an underwater cave where many different kinds of fishes can be seen. After the lunch on board, continue to Kyun Phila Island (Great Swinton) which is one of the most popular and beautiful islands in Mergui Archipelago. This site has many beautiful corals and great for snorkelling. You can also do other leisurely activities like swimming, fishing and sun bathing on the beach. Dinner and overnight on board nearby Kyun Phila. (B, L, D)
 
Day 3: Kyun Phila – 254 (60) Island – Salet Galet Island
After the breakfast on board, swimming near the island. Leave for 254 (60) island which is small but with its white sand and semi-circle shape of the beach, it is one of the most popular among tourists. It is the most beautiful area with full of coral reefs in Lampi Island. Various kinds of fish species can be found while snorkelling. After lunch depart to Salet Galet Island. You can explore the mangrove forests around the island on the kayaks. Dinner and overnight on board nearby Salet Galet Island. (B, L, D)
 
Day 4: Salet Galet – Marble Island (Ye’ Aye Hnget Thaik)
After the breakfast on board, trek to a 385 meter high hill (West Peak -385 meter high) to enjoy the panoramic view of the island. There will be time to do other activities such as swimming, sea kayaking and snorkelling near the island. Continue to Marble Island (Ye’ Aye Hnget Thaik) and lunch on board. Swing by at a pearl farm on the way. Dinner and overnight on board nearby Marble Island. (B, L, D)

 
Day 5: Marble Island – Wal Island – Mergui Island
After the breakfast on board, there are a few activities on offer such as Cave Kayaking when the tide ebbs, watching Swiftlets Dwelling (Bird nest) and exploration of the rocks that look like the Banyan tree, elephant and bottle. If you are lucky, you will able to see groups of sea dolphins. After lunch, continue to Wal Island. Enjoy some leisurely activities of your interest for the afternoon. Continue to Mergui Island, overnight and dinner on board. (B, L, D)
 
Day 6: Mergui Island – Myeik
After breakfast, enjoy the last day of the trip on Mergui Island. Leave for Myeik in the morning. Lunch on board.
We will celebrate the completion of your exploration with a complementary beer or soft drinks as we approach to Seik Nge Jetty in Mergui Town. Arrival at Myeik. End of the service. (B, L, _)
 
NOTE:
We reserves the right to change the itineraries (rearranging the order of the tour programs, to cancel or substitute places to visit) at any time without prior notice depending on the weather, operational and local conditions. Customers are liable to pay for all the supplementary and extra costs that may occur due to these changes. Please also ensure your travel insurance covers for the extra costs incurred due to unforeseen circumstances.
 
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 (US$) per person
US$ 1781
US$ 1781

* Prices are based on twin shared cabin, single supplement applies. Please contact us for sailing dates for 2015-16 season.

 

Private chartered rates

Private Charter Rates 1 – 8 PAX
Price (US$) per day
9 – 16 PAX
Price (US$) per day
MV Mergui Princess US$ 1850 US$ 2250

Contact us for tailor-made itinerary, privately chartered boats and yachts, pre and post sailing travel arrangements, transports to and from yachts 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 Myanmar.
 
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:

  • Twin shared cabin on Mergui Princess Boat
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner on board as per itinerary (minimum 3-4 dishes per meal), fruits and snacks (*** special dietary requirements needs to be informed at the time of booking)
  • Free flow of soft drinks, drinking water, tea and coffee on board
  • Pre and post cruise same day transfer between the boat and Kawthaung Airport in Myanmar/ Ranon Jetty in Thailand.
  • Local English speaking guide service
  • Sea Kayaks (sit-on-top), snorkelling set (face masks, snorkels and fins), jungle boots, fishing poles, life jackets and dinghy/ life raft

 
Service excludes:

  • Domestic and international airfare (we can arrange Myanmar domestic flights to and from Kawthaung)
  • Mergui Archipelago zone entry fees (~US$ 80 per person)
  • Single supplement for sole occupancy of a twin shared cabin, 50% of the price
  • Hotel accommodation in Kawthaung, Ranong or Myeik
  • Myanmar Visa (~US$30 per person, on arrival visa which is valid to travel only in the Kawthaung and Mergui Archipelago zone could be arranged for you. You need to bring 4 passport size photos.)
  • Travel Insurance
  • Expenditure on personal nature such as laundry, alcoholic beverages, cigarettes, gratitude to guides & crew
  • Diving equipment rental fees
  • Bank transfer charges and fees charged by paypal or your card providers
  • Any service items not mentioned in price inclusion above

 
Re-positioning surcharge
Mokan Explorer 5 starts in Kawthaung and finishes in Myeik. Clients are charged for the post cruise empty return journey of the live aboard boat from Myeik to Kawthaung. Depends on the number of clients on board (minimum 4 to maximum 8), the re-positioning surcharge will vary from US$184 to US$298 per person.
 

Payment

  • Deposit equivalent to 30% of the price will be requested to secure your booking
  • The balance needs to be paid at least 30 days prior to the departure date
  • If full payment has not been received as per above timeline, Myanmar City Star Travel & Tours Co. Ltd has the right to cancel the booking
  • Booking made within 30 days of the departure date must be paid in full at the time of the booking
  • All payment should be made in US Dollar only via a Bank Transfer or by using major credit or debit card via paypal.

 

Cancellation Policy

  • Deposit is non refundable
  • Cancellations 30-15 days prior to departure will be charged 75% of the total price
  • Cancellations 15 days or less before departure will be charged 100% of the total price
  • In case of no-show, 100% of the total price
  • Cancellations during the trip, 100% of the total price
  • Unused services, 100% of the total price

What is a Discovery / Adventure cruise?

Discovery / Adventure cruise consist of live-aboard boat with island hopping, Mangrove tour, island trekking, Kayaking, snorkeling, bird watching and observation of native Salone or Moken sea gypsies. Meals are served on the boat with dedicated cook. You can discover the hidden and well protected beauty of Nature in its pristine condition.

 

When is the best time to visit?

The Myanmar (Burma) dive season runs from end of October to April. The weather and Andaman Sea are at their calmest during the months of February to April and this is when visibility is at its best. This time of year is also manta ray and whale shark season.

 

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.

 

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. (Link to General Information page)

 

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 type. We will be in touch to confirm or answer your questions. Also do let us know if you preferred to charter the whole boat/ yacht for a private cruise.
We accept all major debit and credit cards via paypal, paypal payments and bank transfers. Card payments and paypal transfer incur a charge of 2%. In case of payments by bank transfers, clients need to ensure that the net amount is transferred and all transfer charges their bank may apply are debited from their account.

 

How far in advance do I need to book?

Due to the limited number of reliable boat operators running liveaboards in Burma, you must try to book 2-3 months in advance to ensure availability. You can always check with us by sending an email.

 

Where can you pick me up from?

We can arrange transfers to your liveaboard from your hotel in Kawthaung and Ranong, jetty in Ranong and also from the airports in Kawthaung and Ranong if you arrive just before the departure of your boat. Please make sure you check the departure and arrival time of the boat in Kawthaung for your trip before booking y our flights. Please advice us of your preferred transfer point before you arrive.

 

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 kind of food is served?

Chinese, Myanmar, Thai cusine for meals and European breakfast is served on board. The standard of cuisine is quite good throughout the industry here.

 

Can I request vegetarian food?

Yes, you can. You just need to tell us your dietary requirements at the time of your booking and we will cater as per your request.

 

Can I bring alcohol on board?

Yes, you can bring any food and drink you would like on board. If you have a favourite tipple or taste, feel free to bring it along.

 

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

It is recommended to rechange your batteries while cruising current is stable during cruising as we can run large generator. Please check with the boat captain how to change your batteries. There is fresh water for showering and in the kitchen. Internet is not available on-board.

 

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.

 

What should I bring on board?

All your personal equipment (expect tanks, weights and weight belts), barthers, beach towels, toiletries, T-shirts, shorts, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, prescription medicines if you take one, your camera and an underwater digital camera if you need one for diving or snorkelling. You may also want to bring something a little warmer for the evenings.
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. We recommend you brin your personal first aid kits for your convenience.

 

Where can I leave my access baggage when I go on a cruise?

If your hotel can not help you store your baggage, then we are more than willing to help. You can store your bags at our office in Kawthaung for the duration of your liveaboard trip. Please don’t leave any valuables and money, take these with you.

 

Will I get sea sick?

All the liveaboards in the Mergui Archipelago use mooring points to over-night at the islands visited on the cruise. These mooring points are located in the island’s bays, sheltered away from any open sea swells. If you are particularly susceptible to motion sickness, then you should consider joining a cruise in February to April, when the seas are very calm. Do bring your own motion sickness medicine.

 

Do I need a travel insurance?

Yes. Before joining any of our tours in Mergui Archipelago, you need to get a suitable travel insurance that covers for your journey in Myanmar water and remote Mergui Archipelago and the activities you will be participating during the trip.

 

Is Malaria a problem?

The Myanmar liveaboard scuba destinations are free of Malaria. However, please do bring mosquito repellent and you may want to consider bringing anti-malarial tablets if you are concerned.

 

Do I have to share a cabin?

As space is the ultimate premium on all liveaboards, single cabins are extremely rare and expensive. Unless we manage to book you a single cabin, you will be expected to share. It may be, if the boat is not full, that you can have your own cabin but this situation can not be guaranteed. The only way to guarantee a cabin for yourself is to pay for two beds!

 

Can I explore the beaches at the islands?

Our Discovery/ Adventure cruise will stop at each selected destination for you to discover the island, beach & under water beauty. Please do advise the tour leader before and each time you disembark from the boat. Note, make sure you bring sun-cover of some sort as it can be very hot.

 

What about tipping?

Tipping is entirely a matter of your choice. If your Myanmar (Burma) liveaboard charter met or exceeded your expectations, you may wish to leave a tip of up to 10% of your cruise price. Smaller tips are welcome too!

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.

Extend your stays in Myanmar. Add more destinations in Myanmar before or after your tours.
Contact us for tailor made extension on your journeys to Myanmar (Burma).

 

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