MV Pawara Liveaboard Review

MV Pawara is a liveaboard owned by West Coast Divers, who are based in Phuket. Originally opening in 1996, West Coast Divers proudly boast to be one of longest established and most respected dive operators in the area.

Thailand, often known as the ‘land of a thousand smiles’, is a popular diving destination, and for good reasons! The diving on the west coast of Thailand from Phuket to close to the border of Myanmar takes in the famous Similan and Surin Marine National Parks.

The diving here is varied. Shallow sandy reefs on the east side of the Similans are abundant with Tropical fish life. The western side of the islands are host to huge granite formations, swim-throughs and swooping topography. Moving north to Koh Bon, Koh Tachai and Richelieu Rock there is also always the chance of something bigger passing in the blue such as a Manta Ray or Whale Shark. There are sometimes currents and most dives are drift dives with local guides to allow you to relax and take in the scenery. Water temperatures are in the 27-29c range and visibility is generally excellent.

The vessel, MV Pawara, is a custom built steel diving vessel ideally suited for the conditions. She is 35m in length and 7m in beam, making her along with competitor MV Thailand Aggressor, one of the largest vessels operating in the area. Just refitted for the 2016-2017 season, she has a full compliment of safety equipment and has recently been fitted with hull stabilisers to ensure an even smoother voyage.

You can check the availability and prices for this Boat here.

Cabins and Boat Layout

MV Pawara is well-proportioned and has ample space for 24 divers to travel in comfort.

There are essentially two cabin options:

• 10 x Twin-bed Standard, Deluxe or Master cabins with air-conditioning and ensuite bathroom facilities.
• 2 x Twin-bed shared budget cabin, also air-conditioned, with a shared bathroom facility.

Cabins are simply decorated in a traditional Thai style.

Outside of the cabins there is a large and comfortable living area. If you’re relaxing in the evening or in-between dives on a surface interval there is an entertainment system including a flat-screen TV and DVD player. Wi-Fi is available during some periods onboard depending on location should you wish to stay in contact with the outside world on social media or for work commitments. And, there is a library of books should you wish to identify the aquatic life you’ve seen in-water.

Air-conditioned indoor lounge

On the top deck is a very spacious sun-deck with mattresses. Here you can take in the panorama of the amazing Similan Islands as you travel between dive sites.

Outdoor relaxing area

The shaded upper-deck relaxing area is a wonderful place to spend your surface interval. Or, alternatively, eat outside as you enjoy the delicious combination of Thai and western foods served 3 times a day in a buffet style. There are also a constant supply of cookies, fruit and beverages – this is not the boat to be on if you intend to lose weight!

Diving onboard MV Pawara

You’ll receive a thorough briefing before each of the dives by one of the diving professionals onboard Pawara before making your way downstairs to prepare for each dive. Guides are available in most languages on request.

MV Pawara has a spacious dive deck and, crucially for multiple dives, Nitrox is available and free of charge for those qualified. Or, should you wish to learn – why not further your education onboard?

Dive Deck

DIN adaptors are available and there are dive tenders to assist with diving pick-ups and drops in the optimum position where required.

Itineraries

Departing from Tapla Mu pier in Phang-Nga province, the itinerary is usually 5 days/4 nights. Dive site selection is obviously subject to the prevailing sea conditions but aims to take Pawara as far north as the famous Richelieu Rock.

Expect to pay just EUR576 for a 5 day trip. This equates to EUR115/day, making her a bargain and significantly cheaper than Thailand Aggressor – her direct competitor. Please note that this does not include some extras such as port/marine park fees, alcoholic drinks and equipment rental. Please contact us for further details.