Unveiling the Marvels of Myanmar's Dive Sites

Myanmar, nestled in the Andaman Sea, offers a treasure trove of untouched dive sites and a remarkable variety of marine species. Unlike its neighboring destinations, Myanmar remains relatively unexplored by tourists, granting divers the opportunity to discover new species and dive in secluded areas.

Introducing Myanmar: A Land of Mystique

 

Myanmar has a rich history burdened by military rule and limited infrastructure, which has kept it off the radar of modern travel enthusiasts. However, with the advent of a democratic government and improved foreign relations, Myanmar has emerged as an alluring destination. Its uncharted territories present undiscovered delights that few have had the privilege of experiencing.

Diving in Myanmar primarily revolves around the Mergui Archipelago, an assemblage of 800 islands spanning over 13,900 square miles. Other diving areas include the Burma Banks, a series of five seamounts scattered across the Andaman Sea. Although the Mergui Archipelago is closer to the mainland, accessing these remote sites requires lengthy journeys, resulting in blissfully uncrowded reefs and the possibility of having an entire dive site to yourself for several days.

When to Dive in Myanmar

To ensure optimal conditions, diving in Myanmar is only available between October and May. The prime time is from January to mid-April when the weather is most favorable, and heavy rain and rough seas are less likely to occur.

What changes in 2024 for Scuba Divers in Myanmar ?

In 2024, Myanmar welcome travelers to come and enjoy it's wild nature, including diving activities. Though the domestic conflict is creating difficulties to travel the golden country, most of the diving sites are contained in safe zone. 
To understand more of the situation, you might read:
- Visa to Myanmar 2024
- Travel to Myanmar 2024
- Beach escape tours in Myanmar

Myanmar's Marine Life: A Photographer's Paradise

While Myanmar shares many marine species with neighboring Thailand, the dive sites in the Mergui Archipelago offer unique contrasts. Unlike Thai sites with coral-encrusted granite boulders and friendly reef fish, the limestone islets of the Mergui Archipelago are characterized by intricate ledges and crevices, providing refuge for a diverse range of "critters" and fish. Exploring these waters presents the chance to encounter rare and unusual creatures seldom found elsewhere. The archipelago's channels bring plankton-rich water, which nourishes colossal gorgonians and attracts majestic filter feeders such as whale sharks and mantas.

Every reef in Myanmar is teeming with an abundance of invertebrate life, including shells, nudibranchs, flatworms, soft corals, anemones, and other intriguing species. Keen-eyed divers might even spot pairs of harlequin shrimp feeding on sea stars. The reefs also host a remarkable variety of reef fish, offering the opportunity to spot peculiar species like ornate ghost pipefish, frogfish, and tiger-tail seahorses. On rare occasions, lucky divers may even come across the elusive pineconefish and lacy scorpionfish (Rhinopias). Myanmar's scarcity of divers allows for unparalleled photographic opportunities. With an abundance of marine life and captivating scenery, the challenges of reaching this enigmatic destination are undoubtedly overshadowed.

Best Time to Dive and Diving Conditions in Myanmar

The diving season in Myanmar runs from October to May, with the best conditions prevailing from December to April. While visibility can vary throughout the year, early in the season tends to offer clearer water with fewer thermoclines and plankton blooms. Water temperatures range between 75 and 82°F (24 and 28°C). Plankton blooms can reduce visibility to 10-15m from February to mid-April, but this period also presents the best opportunity to encounter whale sharks and manta rays. Water temperatures during this time can reach up to 86°F (30°C).

Diving in Myanmar can be more challenging than in neighboring destinations like Thailand and the Similan Islands. The Mergui Archipelago and Burma Banks often experience strong currents, especially during the full and new moons. These currents, combined with inshore sites, can occasionally reduce visibility. As divers venture further out to sea, exposed reefs may encounter swells and chop, particularly before the annual monsoons.

The Finest Dive Sites in Myanmar

Myanmar boasts several exceptional dive areas. Here are some of the highlights:

Western Rocky

Located in the deep south of the region, Western Rocky is a limestone islet adorned with vibrant soft corals, orange tubastraea, and anemones. Its rich marine life makes it a diver's paradise. The site features detached pinnacles and a magnificent 66-ft tunnel that cuts through the center of the island, adding an extra dose of excitement to an already extraordinary dive. With so much to explore, diving enthusiasts can easily spend a full day immersed in the wonders of Western Rocky.

Black Rock

Situated as far north as most liveaboards travel, Black Rock is Myanmar's most renowned dive site. It magnetizes various pelagics, including mantas, especially during peak season. Similar in size and topography to Western Rocky, this limestone islet also offers an abundance of macro life along its steep walls. Like other sites in the Mergui Archipelago, Black Rock provides captivating features at every depth, inviting divers to embark on an unforgettable underwater journey.

Three Islets

Closer to the shore compared to the aforementioned sites, the three rocky outcrops known as the Three Islets may not always offer perfect visibility. Nevertheless, their intriguing topography and diverse marine life compensate for any visual limitations. As a cluster of steep limestone pinnacles within a short swimming distance from one another, these islets are a haven for fish and critters seeking shelter in their nooks and crannies. The main structure features a unique canyon that funnels down to twin tunnels, enhancing the allure of this site.

Burma Ocean Banks to dive

Situated 60-80 miles further offshore than the Mergui Archipelago, the Burma Banks present a distinct diving experience. Although most of the Banks consist of flat plateaus with sparse hard coral cover, Silvertip Bank stands out with its colorful soft corals and encrusting sponges adorning a steep slope. Silvertip Bank was once famous for its abundance of sharks, particularly the photogenic silvertips. However, shark populations have significantly declined, resulting in fewer operators visiting this area. Nonetheless, for those willing to venture further, the Burma Banks showcase a different side of Myanmar's underwater wonders.

While the aforementioned dive sites are concentrated in the southern part of the archipelago, new sites are continually being discovered in the north, which may become more accessible as new resorts emerge.

Traveling to Myanmar

How to Reach Myanmar

There are no direct flights from the US or Europe to Yangon International Airport (RGN). Most flights from these regions connect in the Middle East or major Asian hubs. From Yangon, a 90-minute domestic flight will take you to either Myeik Airport (MGZ) or Kawthaung Airport (KAW). Another option is to fly into Ranong Airport (UNN) in Thailand. Resorts typically offer transfers from these airports, often including a speedboat journey. Ranong is the most practical gateway city for divers intent on exploring Myanmar, as it is a border town adjacent to Kawthaung.

Most liveaboards departing for Myanmar's dive sites set sail from Ranong or Khao Lak in Thailand. Regular flights from the US and Europe to Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) in Bangkok or Phuket International Airport (HKT) facilitate easy access to these departure points. From there, a short bus or taxi ride along the coast will bring divers to the awaiting boats.

Diving in Myanmar

The majority of diving in Myanmar's Mergui Archipelago is facilitated through Thai-based liveaboards. However, day trips and resort-based diving packages are slowly gaining popularity. As much of Myanmar's coastline remains under military control, all diving activities must be arranged with authorized dive operators.

Resorts in the Mergui Archipelago are limited, and only a few offer diving services. These luxury resorts leverage the area's deserted beaches and uninhabited islands to provide an exceptional experience. However, the best dive sites are scattered across such a vast area that day-tripping from a resort becomes impractical. Consequently, the most common way to explore Myanmar's diving treasures is through liveaboard trips departing from Ranong or Khao Lak in Thailand. These trips can be combined with diving in the Similan Islands or Richelieu Rock, with boat transit from Thailand to Mergui lasting between four and six hours.

Beyond Diving: Exploring Myanmar

While diving may not be the primary reason visitors explore Myanmar, the country offers a wealth of cultural and natural wonders. Historic temples, landmarks, and stunning ruins such as Bagan provide profound insights into Myanmar's turbulent history. The country's scenic landscapes invite visitors to embark on treks through the Hsipaw Highlands or around Inle Lake. In the Mergui Archipelago, kayaking, boating tours, snorkeling, and wildlife watching offer exciting alternatives to diving.

Additional Practical Information

• Currency: Myanmar Kyat (MMK)
• Language: Burmese
• Main Airport: Yangon International Airport (RGN)
• Time Zone: Myanmar (Burma) Standard Time (GMT+6:30)
• Electricity: 230V

Dive into the mystique of Myanmar and unlock the secrets of its enchanting underwater world. With its unspoiled dive sites, diverse marine life, and unique experiences, Myanmar promises an unforgettable adventure beneath the waves.