Customer review from Liveaboard.com
“Such a great experience! We enjoyed the trip and meeting the team. John was extremely organized. We were treated with utmost respect and care. The dives were excellent and plentiful. The food was great. My son enjoyed meeting the Dive Master! ;)”
Recommended for: 1. The crew! 2. The organization under John. 3. The diving guide.
Customer Review By Jason G, from: United States scored the Merdeka 3 9.2 out of 10; Review courtesy of Liveaboard.com, for all 39 reviews and information click here: Merdeka 3 .
Is The Merdeka 3 Right For You?
⚡ Quick Facts
(or equivalent)
✓ Best For:
- ✓Intermediate divers looking to build experience
- ✓Social divers who enjoy meeting new people
- ✓Those who enjoy traditional sailing vessels
- ✓Travelers who prefer to rent equipment rather than bring their own
- ✓Divers seeking multi-day immersive experiences
✗ Not Ideal For:
- ✗Those who prefer day trips or shore-based diving
- ✗Divers seeking extreme or technical diving challenges
🎯 Perfect If You Want...
- •Similan Islands diving
- •Whale shark encounters at Richelieu Rock
- •Manta ray cleaning stations
- •Budget-friendly Southeast Asian diving
SDE Liveaboard Rating – Boat Features for the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard
On reviewing the Merdeka 3 liveaboard, it scores 60% on the SDE Liveaboard Rating – Boat Features, as it has 6 of 10 key boat features (see below).
The Merdeka 3 liveaboard provides audio and video entertainment in the lounge so you can relax and enjoy music, films and other entertainment between dives and in the evenings. In addition, it provides audio and video entertainment in the lounge so you can relax and enjoy music, films and other entertainment between dives and in the evenings.
What’s more, it provides charging stations for phones, laptops, torches and underwater cameras so your batteries are always topped up, and your dive kit is always ready for the next dive.
A review of the list of Boat Features found on the Merdeka 3 liveaboard. If you want to find all liveaboards with a specific feature, click a feature to open a new window with a collection of dive liveaboards that have this feature:
- Audio & video entertainment
- Charging stations
- Dedicated crew
- Free deck towels and Free beach towels
- Paid airport transfer and hotel transfer
- Sun deck, leisure deck and observation deck
Click here to show boat features not found
The boat features that are not found on the Merdeka 3. If you want to find all liveaboards with this feature, click a feature to open a new window with a collection of dive liveaboards that have this feature:
- Indoor saloon
- Nearly 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio
- Smart Voyager accreditation
- WIFI Internet
Boat FAQs for the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard
Does the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard have WiFi internet?
Does the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard have an air conditioned saloon?
Does the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard have an indoor saloon?
Does the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard have a sun deck or leisure deck?
Does the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard have an observation deck?
What onboard entertainment is available on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Is there a boutique or souvenir shop on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Is the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard family friendly?
Is the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard available for private charter?
What type of crew works on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
What is the crew to guest ratio on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Does the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard have Smart Voyager accreditation?
Boat information:
- The Merdeka 3 liveaboard provides beach towels and deck towels onboard, which are included in the cost of your liveaboard trip.
- The Merdeka 3 liveaboard offers hotel and airport transfers, which incurs an additional cost on top of your liveaboard trip.
- The Merdeka 3 liveaboard has optional additional charges on top of the cost of the trip, these additional optional charges include gratuities.
- The Merdeka 3 liveaboard has additional required charges on top of the cost of the trip, these additional costs that you are required to pay include national park fees.
- The Merdeka 3 liveaboard has a dedicated crew onboard, which includes both local and international crew.
- The Merdeka 3 liveaboard has dedicated family cabins designed for parents and children sharing together (see the cabin options below), even though it is not specifically tagged as a family friendly cruise in the features. Click Liveaboards With Family Cabins if you want to see other boats with family cabins, or Family Friendly Cruises if you prefer trips that are marketed more broadly for families.
- The Merdeka 3 liveaboard is available for private charter, making it a great option for scuba diving clubs, groups of friends, underwater photography teams, and families who want the whole boat to themselves. With up to 6 cabins available, your group can enjoy an exclusive itinerary, flexible dive schedule, and the privacy of a full-boat charter; click liveaboards available for private charter to compare this liveaboard with other boats that are available for private charter.
- The Merdeka 3 liveaboard is not specifically listed as a budget-friendly option, and is better suited to divers who are happy to pay more for upgraded comfort, premium facilities, and a higher overall experience while exploring Thailand’s dive sites; if your priority is keeping costs down, you can check current discounts using discounted liveaboards, or click Budget Friendly Liveaboards to compare this vessel with other liveaboards that are marketed as more budget-friendly.
Video Highlights for the Merdeka 3
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SDE Liveaboard Rating – Cabin Features for the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard
On reviewing the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard, it scores 60% on the SDE Liveaboard Rating – Cabin Features, as it has 6 of 10 key cabin features (see below).
The Merdeka 3 Liveaboard includes air-conditioned cabins, which keeps your cabin cool and comfortable between dives and whilst you sleep at night. In addition, it includes additional cabin luxuries such as cabin towels, complimentary toiletries and daily housekeeping, which means you can pack lighter and enjoy a more relaxed trip.
What’s more, it has en-suite bathrooms, which adds hotel-style convenience to life on board. You’ll also find it includes seaview cabins so you wake up to an ocean view.
A review of the list of Cabin Features found on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard. If you want to find all liveaboards with a specific feature, click the feature to open a new window with a collection of dive liveaboards that have this feature.
Click here to show cabin features not found
The cabin features that are not found on the Merdeka 3. If you want to find all liveaboards with this feature, click a feature to open a new window with a collection of dive liveaboards that have this feature:
Cabin FAQs for the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard
Do cabins on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard have en-suite bathrooms?
Is there air-conditioning in the cabins on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Are there family cabins on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Are there balcony or sea-view cabins on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Is there a hair dryer in the cabins on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Do cabins on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard have a safe box?
Is there a TV in the cabins on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Are the cabins non-smoking on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Are towels and toiletries provided on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
How many guests and cabins does the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard have?
Cabin information:
- The Merdeka 3 Liveaboard provides cabin towels, which are included in the cost of your liveaboard trip.
- The Merdeka 3 Liveaboard does not offer a laundry service. If you would like this service onboard, click Laundry service to find liveaboards that provide it.
- The Merdeka 3 Liveaboard does not offer a pressing service. If you would like this service onboard, click Pressing service to find liveaboards that provide it.
- The Merdeka 3 Liveaboard provides complimentary toiletries, which are included in the cost of your liveaboard trip.
- The Merdeka 3 Liveaboard has dedicated family cabins designed for parents and children to share together; you can see these layouts in the cabin types section below. It is not specifically tagged as a family friendly cruise in the features, so if you’d like more boats with this type of cabin, look at Liveaboards With Family Cabins, or browse Family Friendly Cruises if you want trips that are marketed more broadly for families.
-
The Merdeka 3 Liveaboard includes the following cabin types:
- 1 Quad cabin with a shared bathroom
- 4 Double cabins with ensuite bathrooms
- 1 Twin cabin with a shared bathroom
SDE Liveaboard Rating – Diving Features for the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard
On reviewing the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard, it scores 80% on the SDE Liveaboard Rating – Diving Features, as it has 8 of 10 key diving features (see below).
The Merdeka 3 Liveaboard offers a spacious dive deck for easy kitting up and also uses dive tenders to put you right on the best sites. In addition, Photographers are looked after, with a separate rinse for underwater cameras. What’s more, After a dive you can rinse off using warm outside showers, which keep you, your hair and your wetsuit fresh and clean from saltwater.
DIN adaptors are carried onboard, so whether you dive on a DIN or yoke regulator you will be supported on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard. You’ll also find On deck you have rinse hoses and a shaded diving area, so your kit and cameras can be washed and kept out of the sun.
A review of the list of diving features found on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard. If you want to find all liveaboards with a specific feature, click a feature to open a new window with a collection of dive liveaboards that have this feature.
Click to show diving features not found
The diving features that are not found on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard. If you want to find all liveaboards with this feature, click the feature below to open a new window with a collection of dive liveaboards that have this feature:
Diving FAQs for the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard
Does the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard have nitrox onboard?
Is the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard custom built for diving?
What level of experience is required and what diver certification is required for the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
How many logged dives do you need for the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Can I get certified on board the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Does the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard have a camera area and camera rinse?
Are there facilities for photographers onboard the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Do I need DIN or yoke on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard, and are adaptors available?
How are water entries and exits handled on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard? Are tenders used?
What rental gear is available on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Are scuba courses available onboard the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Is a nitrox course available onboard the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
What itineraries does the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard run?
What sea creatures can you see on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard
The Merdeka 3 Liveaboard does not currently list specific marine life for its dive sites, please check the itinerary notes.
Dive information:
- Diver certification level required: Open Water Diver (or equivalent)
- Number of logged dives required: Minimum 3-5 logged dives
- Itinerary options on the Merdeka 3 liveaboard are currently: 3 Days/2 Nights, 4 Days/3 Nights, 5 Days/4 Nights
- The diving package to include all the dives on the itinerary of your choice is included in the cost of the liveaboard trip.
- The Merdeka 3 liveaboard offers a private dive guide, which is an optional extra charge. Click Private dive guide to find other liveaboards that offer free, or as a paid extra, a private dive guide.
- The Merdeka 3 liveaboard offers scuba diving courses, which are an optional extra charge. Click Scuba diving courses or Nitrox course to find other liveaboards that offer scuba courses onboard.
- If you would like to do extra dives on the Merdeka 3 liveaboard, you will have to pay an extra charge for these.
Tip: click any of the linked items above to find other dive liveaboards with the same option.
SDE Liveaboard Rating – Food Features for the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard
On reviewing the Merdeka 3 liveaboard, it scores 70% on the SDE Liveaboard Rating – Food Features, as it has 7 of 10 total food & dining features (see below).
The Merdeka 3 Liveaboard offers options for specific dietary requirements; add these in special requests on step 2 of the booking form (limit to religious beliefs or food allergies). It also includes vegetarian and vegan choices on the menu. In addition, it has the benefit of fully inclusive meals, which includes breakfast, lunch and evening meals.
A review of the list of Onboard Food & Dining Features found on the Merdeka 3 liveaboard. If you want to find all liveaboards with a specific feature, click a feature to open a new window with a collection of dive liveaboards that have this feature:
- Dietary requirements
- Full-board option (Free)
- Local food
- Snacks all day (Free)
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
- Western food
Click here to show onboard food features not found
The onboard food features that are not found on the Merdeka 3. If you want to find all liveaboards with this feature, click the feature below to open a new window with a collection of dive liveaboards that have this feature:
- Al fresco dining
- Beach BBQ
- Fine cuisine
Dining FAQs for the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard
What meal plan does the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard offer?
Are dietary requirements accommodated on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Are vegetarian and vegan options available on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Is al fresco dining available on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Does the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard include a beach BBQ?
What dining style is used on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
What cuisine is served on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Are snacks provided on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Dining and food information:
- A half-board meal plan is listed and included in the cost of the liveaboard trip.
SDE Liveaboard Rating – Drinks & Refreshments for the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard
On reviewing the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard, it scores 80% on the SDE Liveaboard Rating - Drinks & Refreshment Features, as it has 8 of 10 total drink & refreshment features (see below). The Merdeka 3 Liveaboard has a bar where beer and wine are available to purchase. In addition, this liveaboard includes drinking water, soft drinks, and tea & coffee in the trip price.
A review of the list of Onboard Drink Features found on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard. If you want to find all liveaboards with a specific feature, click a feature to open a new window with a collection of dive liveaboards that have this feature:
- Alcoholic beverages (Paid extra)
- Bar
- Beer available
- Drinking water (Free)
- Soft drinks (Free)
- Tea & coffee (Free)
- Welcome cocktails
- Wine available
Show onboard drink features not found
The onboard drink features that are not found on the Merdeka 3. If you want to find all liveaboards with this feature, click the feature below to open a new window with a collection of dive liveaboards that have this feature:
- Fine wines selection (enhanced wine offering)
- Free wine w/dinner
Drinks & Refreshments FAQs for the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard
Which drinks are included on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Is there a bar onboard the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Is alcohol available on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Are soft drinks included on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Are tea and coffee included on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Is drinking water included on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Is wine with dinner included on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Are welcome cocktails offered on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Can I bring my own alcohol on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
How do I pay for drinks onboard the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Included in the price of your liveaboard trip:
- Drinking water
- Soft drinks
- Tea & coffee
SDE Liveaboard Rating – Non-Diver Companion Rating for the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard
On reviewing the Merdeka 3 liveaboard, it scores 40% on the SDE Liveaboard Rating - Non-Diver Companion Rating, as it has 4 of 10 total non-diver companion features (see below).
Yes, the Merdeka 3 liveaboard is suitable for non-divers, with activities such as kayaks. These keep everyone involved between dives and make the trip enjoyable for partners or friends who prefer to stay above the surface. In addition, free use of kayaks is included on the Merdeka 3 liveaboard, useful for relaxed exploration in calm water, gentle cardio between dives, and easy wildlife spotting from the surface. Great for non-diving partners or families. What’s more, Wellness options are available on the Merdeka 3 liveaboard, such as massage, spa treatments, or a sauna to unwind between or after dive days. These can be great options for non-divers as well.
A review of the list of Non-Diver Companion Rating features found on the Merdeka 3 liveaboard. If you want to find all liveaboards with a specific feature, click a feature to open a new window with a collection of dive liveaboards that have this feature:
- Included Fishing (Free)
- Included Kayaks on-board (Free)
- Included Non-diver (snorkeler) friendly
- Included Wellness facilities include free massage
Show other onboard activities not found
The other onboard activities that are not found on the Merdeka 3. If you want to find all liveaboards with this feature, click a feature to open a new window with a collection of dive liveaboards that have this feature:
- Not included Glass bottom boat
- Not included Jacuzzi / hot tub
- Not included Library
- Not included Snorkel gear
- Not included Stand up paddleboard
- Not included Naturalist itineraries
Other Activities FAQs for the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard
Are kayaks available on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Are stand up paddleboards available on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Is snorkel gear provided on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Is there a jacuzzi or hot tub on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Is the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard suitable for non-divers?
Is there a naturalist guide or naturalist itinerary on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Is there a library on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Is yoga offered on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Are wellness services available on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Are jet skis available on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Is water skiing available on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Is wakeboarding available on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Is fishing offered on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Is there a glass bottom boat on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Are land excursions included on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Included in the price of the liveaboard trip:
- Fishing
- Kayaks
- Massage
SDE Liveaboard Rating – Underwater Photographer Features for the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard
On reviewing the Merdeka 3 liveaboard, it scores 40% on the SDE Underwater Photographer Rating, as it has 2 of 5 key photographer facilities (see below).
The Merdeka 3 liveaboard offers a separate rinse tank for underwater cameras, helping to keep salt, sand and defog from dive gear away from your delicate housings and ports.
In addition, it provides dedicated charging stations for cameras, strobes, torches and laptops so your batteries are always topped up and ready for the next dive.
A review of the underwater photographer facilities found on the Merdeka 3 liveaboard. If you want to find all liveaboards with a specific facility, click a feature to open a new window with a collection of dive liveaboards that have this facility:
Click here to show photographer facilities not found
Underwater photographer FAQs for the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard
Is there a dedicated camera room on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Does the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard have a dedicated camera table or workstation?
Are there charging stations for cameras and batteries on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Is there a separate rinse tank for underwater cameras on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Does the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard have WiFi for backing up and sharing photos?
Is the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard a good choice for serious underwater photographers?
SDE Liveaboard Rating – Technical Diving Features for the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard
On reviewing the Merdeka 3 liveaboard, it scores 0% on the SDE Tech Diving Rating, as it has 0 of 3 key technical diving features (see below).
This liveaboard does not offer technical diving options. If you are looking for a liveaboard that supports technical diving, expand the section below and click one of the features to view liveaboards that have that capability onboard.
A review of the technical diving features found on the Merdeka 3 liveaboard. If you want to find all liveaboards with a specific feature, click a feature to open a new window with a collection of dive liveaboards that have this feature.
This liveaboard does not offer technical diving options, but if you are looking for a liveaboard that supports technical diving, expand the “Click to show” section below and click one of the links to view liveaboards with that feature onboard.
Click to show tech diving features not found
The technical diving features that are not found on the Merdeka 3 liveaboard. If you want to find all liveaboards with this feature, click the feature below to open a new window with a collection of liveaboards that have this feature.
Tech diving FAQs for the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard
Is sidemount diving supported on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Is technical diving supported on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
Is rebreather diving supported on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard?
All Thailand's Discounted Liveaboard Deals & Last Minute Discounts
Merdeka 3 Included in the Price
When you book the Merdeka 3 dive liveaboard, your cruise price includes key items for an amazing dive safari in Thailand. All your meals are included, so you can focus on diving.
These inclusions provide excellent value and a hassle-free cruise experience. Below is everything included in your Merdeka 3 liveaboard fare.
A review of the list of features 'included' in the price of the Merdeka 3 liveaboard. If you want to find all liveaboards with a specific feature included in the price, click a feature to open a new window with a collection of dive liveaboards that have this feature:
- Included Beach towels
- Included Cabin towels
- Included Complimentary toiletries
- Included Deck towels
- Included Diving package
- Included Drinking water
- Included Fishing
- Included Full-board meal plan (All meals)
- Included Half-board meal plan
- Included Kayaks
- Included Land excursions
- Included Massage
- Included Snacks
- Included Soft drinks
- Included Tea & coffee
- Included VAT
Show features not included in the price
The other features that are not included on the Merdeka 3 liveaboard. If you want to find all liveaboards with this feature, click a feature to open a new window with a collection of dive liveaboards that have this feature:
- Not included Accommodation
- Not included Airport transfers
- Not included Nitrox
- Not included Snorkel equipment
- Not included Beer
- Not included Wine with dinner
- Not included Dive guide
- Not included Diving equipment
Merdeka 3 Optional Paid Extras
Enhance your Merdeka 3 charter with these optional upgrades available for an additional cost.
These extras let you tailor the trip to your preferences. See the list below.
A review of the list of 'optional extras' charged on top of the price for the Merdeka 3 liveaboard. Click a feature to find liveaboards including this in the price:
- Included Airport transfer
- Included Alcoholic beverages
- Included Extra dives
- Included Gratuities
- Included Hotel transfer
- Included Private dive guide
- Included Rental gear
- Included Scuba diving courses
Merdeka 3 Required Paid Extras
Please note some essential costs are not included in the base price of the Merdeka 3 dive cruise and must be paid additionally. Marine park fees help protect the reefs you will dive in Thailand.
Budget for these mandatory costs when planning your liveaboard trip. See the list below.
A review of the list of 'required extras' not included in the price for the Merdeka 3 liveaboard. Click a feature to find liveaboards where this is covered in the price (when applicable):
- Included National park fees
Merdeka 3 Vessel Details
- Length: 30.0m (98.4ft)
- Beam: 6.5m (21.3ft)
- Max guests: 14
- Cabins: 6
- Bathrooms: 6
Merdeka 3 Boat Navigation and Safety
Navigation and safety aboard the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard are built around dependable positioning and rapid response.
A review of the full list of navigation and safety features for the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard. Merdeka 3 Liveaboard scores 52% on the SDE Liveaboard Rating for navigation & safety, which means it has 9 out of 17 navigation & safety features (see below for the features that are missing from this liveaboard).
- Included Bilge Pump Alarm
- Included Depth Sounder
- Included Emergency Rafts
- Included Fire Alarm & Fire Extinguishers
- Included First Aid Kits
- Included Life Vests
- Included Radio VHF/DSC/SSB
- Included Satellite & Mobile Phones
- Included Search light
Show features not found
The merdeka 3 boat navigation and safety that are not found on the Merdeka 3 Liveaboard:
- Not included Crew Trained in First Aid
- Not included E.P.I.R.B. Distress System
- Not included Emergency Flares
- Not included Engine room CCTV
- Not included Fishfinder
- Not included GPS
- Not included Oxygen
- Not included Radar