
Customer review from Liveaboard.com
“Sail the Andaman Sea in a friendly atmosphere. My wife and I just spend an amazing week living aboard The Smiling Seahorse which took us through the many renown diving spots Thailand has to offer. The past 7 days, we sailed the Andaman Sea, stopping at busy Richelieu Rock by the Mu Ko Surin National Park and exploring the wonders of Ko Tachai and Ko Bon. We were amazed at the beauty of Breakfast Bend (3 trees), the imposing Elephant Rock (Hin Pusa) and Shark Fin Reef (Hin Phae) dive sites off the coast of Mu Ko Similan National Park. We were greeted by superb Oceanic Mantas at Red Rock (Hin Daeng), Purple Rock (Hin Muang) right in the Strait of Malacca and gasped at the grandeur of Cathedral (Koh Haa Yao). Last but not least, Ko Li Pe delivered schools of Fusiliers, Trevalis and Small Tooth Emperors reigning over the rest of the innumerable schools of fishes at Stonehenge and 8 Miles Rock (Hin Paad Mile). The crew on board was the friendliest and always helpful, accommodating my wife’s (many) food allergies with kindness. Speaking of the food, the chefs on board are incredible and you are in for a treat after each dives (my favorite being the post-morning dive breakfast). Our cabin (number 1) was spacious with a large bed and ample space to organize and store our luggages away. The bathroom was clean and perfect for a week on board. The entire dive masters crew was always professional, taking the time to go over the dive plan, answering any concerns and helping locate and identify the many hidden wonders discovered during each dive. We highly recommend signing up for the black water dive if this is something you have never done as Franck (the owner) is an amazing photograph and will lead you through a new way to discover our animal kingdom. Kudos to Franck and his team for organizing everything in a seamless fashion getting on and off the boat and everything in between. Thank you for having us, we’re looking forward to discovering Burma in a future adventure!”
Recommended for: Friendly and knowledgeable crew, amazing food, incredible dive sites
Customer Review By Taryn L, from: United States scored the Smiling Seahorse 10 out of 10; Review courtesy of Liveaboard.com, for all 44 reviews and information click here: Smiling Seahorse .
Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard Boat Features Review
On reviewing the Smiling Seahorse liveaboard, it scores 66% on the SDE Liveaboard Rating for boat features, as it has 8 of 12 total boat features (see below).
The Smiling Seahorse liveaboard provides audio and video entertainment in the lounge so you can relax between dives and attend review briefings in comfort. In addition, it provides audio and video entertainment in the lounge so you can relax between dives and attend review briefings in comfort. What’s more, it provides charging stations for phones, laptops, torches and underwater cameras so your batteries are topped up, which means your dive kit is always ready for the next dive.
You’ll also find it has a sun deck for those who love to sunbathe after each dive and to build that sun tan, a leisure deck with shade and seating, which is perfect for surface intervals and relaxation. Also, the Smiling Seahorse liveaboard is available for private charter, letting your group tailor itinerary focus and day to day rhythm. Plus, it maintains a near one to one crew to guest ratio, which supports quick service and strong safety cover.
On top of that, it features an observation deck, ideal for horizon watching, wildlife spotting and night sky views.
A review of the list of Boat Features found on the Smiling Seahorse 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:
- ✓ Leisure deck
- ✓ Nearly 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio
- ✓ Observation deck
- ✓ Sun deck
Click here to show boat features not found
- ✕ WIFI Internet
- ✕ Air conditioned saloon
- ✕ Family Friendly Cruise
- ✕ Indoor saloon
Boat FAQs for the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard
Does the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard have WiFi internet?
Does the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard have an air conditioned saloon?
Does the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard have an indoor saloon?
Does the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard have a sun deck or leisure deck?
Does the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard have an observation deck?
What onboard entertainment is available on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Is there a boutique or souvenir shop on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Is the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard family friendly?
Is the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard available for private charter?
What type of crew works on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
What is the crew to guest ratio on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Does the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard have Smart Voyager accreditation?
Boat information:
- ✓The Smiling Seahorse liveaboard provides deck towels onboard, which are included in the cost of your liveaboard trip, but no beach towels are provided. Click Beach Towels to find liveaboards that offer Beach Towels onboard.
- ✓The Smiling Seahorse liveaboard offers hotel and airport transfers, which incur an additional cost on top of your liveaboard trip.
- ✓ The Smiling Seahorse liveaboard has optional additional charges on top of the cost of the trip, these additional optional charges include gratuities.
- ✓ The Smiling Seahorse 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 Smiling Seahorse liveaboard has a dedicated crew onboard, which includes both local and international crew.
Video Highlights for the Smiling Seahorse
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Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard Cabin Features Review
On reviewing the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard, it scores 72% on the SDE Liveaboard Rating for cabin features, as it has 8 of 11 total cabin features (see below). The Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard includes seaview cabins so you wake up to an ocean view. In addition, it has family cabins, which means you can travel and scuba dive as a family on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard. What’s more, it has en-suite bathrooms, which adds hotel-style convenience to life on board. You’ll also find it has cabins with a balcony so you can sit out and enjoy the sea air and ocean views.
Cabin Types Available
- 2 Double Cabins with ensuite bathroom
- 2 Double/Twin Cabins with shared bathroom
- 4 Double/Twin Cabins with ensuite bathroom
A review of the list of Cabin Features found on the Smiling Seahorse 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.
- ✓ Aircon cabins
- ✓ Daily housekeeping
- ✓ En-suite bathrooms
- ✓ Family cabins
- ✓ Laundry service
- ✓ Non-smoking rooms
- ✓ Rooms with balcony
- ✓ Seaview cabins
Click here to show cabin features not found
The cabin features that are not found on the Smiling Seahorse. 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:
- ✕ Hair Dryer in Cabin
- ✕ Safe Box in Cabin
- ✕ TV in cabins
Cabin FAQs for the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard
Do cabins on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard have en-suite bathrooms?
Is there air-conditioning in the cabins on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Are there family cabins on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Are there balcony or sea-view cabins on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Is there a hair dryer in the cabins on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Do cabins on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard have a safe box?
Is there a TV in the cabins on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Are the cabins non-smoking on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Are towels and toiletries provided on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Is there a laundry service on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
How many guests and cabins does the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard have?
Included in the price of the liveaboard trip:
- • Cabin towels
Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard Diving Features Review
On reviewing the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard, it scores 85% on the SDE Liveaboard Rating for diving features, as it has 17 of 20 total diving features (see below).
The Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard offers scuba diving courses onboard, which includes a nitrox course, so you can build on your diver certification whilst you are on your liveaboard trip. In addition, The Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard offers a spacious dive deck for easy kitting up and also uses dive tenders to put you right on the best sites. What’s more, Photographers are looked after, with a camera room, a camera station and a separate rinse for underwater cameras.
Warm water showers are available after the dive which is a nice touch on cooler trips. You’ll also find DIN adaptors are carried onboard, so whether you dive on a DIN or yoke regulator you will be supported on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard. Also, Rebreather support is listed for the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard, just confirm sorb, oxygen and bailout in advance.
Sidemount diving is supported on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard, which is useful if you prefer to carry cylinders on your side. Plus, 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. On top of that, A private dive guide is available on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard as a paid extra, useful if you want 1 to 1 guiding.
The Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard was custom built for diving, so the layout, dive deck and facilities are all set up with scuba divers in mind. In addition, Nitrox is available onboard as a paid extra, so you can choose to dive with nitrox on the dives that matter most. The Enriched Air Nitrox is normally EAN32 or 32% oxygen.
A review of the list of diving features found on the Smiling Seahorse 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.
The diving features that are not found on the Smiling Seahorse 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:
Does the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard have nitrox onboard?
Is the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard custom built for diving?
What diver certification is required for the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
How many logged dives do you need for the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Is sidemount diving supported on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Is technical diving supported on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Is rebreather diving supported on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Does the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard have a camera area and camera rinse?
Do I need DIN or yoke on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard, and are adaptors available?
How are water entries and exits handled on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard? Are tenders used?
Is rental gear available on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Are scuba courses available onboard the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Is a nitrox course available onboard the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
What itineraries does the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard run?
The Smiling Seahorse 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
- Number of logged dives required: Minimum 10 logged dives
- Itinerary options on the Smiling Seahorse liveaboard are currently: 5 Days/4 Nights , 6 Days/5 Nights , 7 Days/6 Nights , 8 Days/7 Nights , 9 Days/8 Nights
- The diving package to include all the dives on the itinerary of your choice is Included in the cost of the liveaboard trip.
Tip, click any of the "Diver certification level required", "Number of logged dives required", "Maximum number of dives..." or "Itinerary options..." to find other dive liveaboards with the same option.
Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard Onboard Food & Dining Features Review
On reviewing the Smiling Seahorse liveaboard, it scores 85% on the SDE Liveaboard Rating for onboard food & dining features, as it has 12 of 14 total food & dining features (see below). The Smiling Seahorse 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 offers al fresco dining so you can enjoy ocean breezes with your meals whilst onboard. What’s more, 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 Smiling Seahorse 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:
- ✓ Al fresco dining
- ✓ BBQ area
- ✓ Buffet style
- ✓ Dietary requirements
- ✓ Fine cuisine
- ✓ Full-board option
- ✓ Local food
- ✓ Set menu dinner
- ✓ Snacks all day
- ✓ 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 Smiling Seahorse. 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:
- ✕ Beach BBQ
- ✕ Half-board option
Dining FAQs for the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard
What meal plan does the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard offer?
Are dietary requirements accommodated on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Are vegetarian and vegan options available on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Is al fresco dining available on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Does the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard include a beach BBQ?
What dining style is used on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
What cuisine is served on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Are snacks provided on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Is premium dining available on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Included in the price of the liveaboard trip:
- • Beach BBQ
- • Full-board meal plan (All meals)
- • Snacks
Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard Onboard Drinks & Refreshments Review
On reviewing the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard, it scores 71% on the SDE Liveaboard Rating for onboard drink & refreshment features, as it has 5 of 7 total drink & refreshment features (see below). The Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard has a bar where beer and wine are available to purchase. In addition, it offers a selection of fine wines for purchase onboard. What’s more, it has free soft drinks for those of you who don't drink alcohol, or to drink between dives. 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 Smiling Seahorse 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:
- ✓ Bar
- ✓ Beer available
- ✓ Fine wines selection
- ✓ Free soft drinks
- ✓ Wine available
Show onboard drink features not found
The onboard drink features that are not found on the Smiling Seahorse. 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:
- ✕ Free wine w/dinner
- ✕ Welcome cocktails
Drinks & Refreshments FAQs for the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard
Which drinks are included on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Is there a bar onboard the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Is alcohol available on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Are soft drinks included on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Are tea and coffee included on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Is drinking water included on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Is wine with dinner included on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Are welcome cocktails offered on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Can I bring my own alcohol on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
How do I pay for drinks onboard the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Included in the price of your liveaboard trip:
- • Drinking water
- • Soft drinks
- • Tea & coffee
Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard Other Activities Review
On reviewing the Smiling Seahorse liveaboard, it scores 17% on the SDE Liveaboard Rating for other recreational activities, as it has 3 of 17 total recreational activity features (see below). The Smiling Seahorse liveaboard has kayaks on board for relaxed paddles around calm bays between dives.
A review of the list of Recreational Activity Features found on the Smiling Seahorse 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 Kayaks on-board
- Included Library
- Included Non-diver (snorkeler) friendly
Show other onboard activities not found
The other onboard activities that are not found on the Smiling Seahorse. 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 Fishing
- Not included Glass bottom boat
- Not included Jacuzzi / hot tub
- Not included Jet ski
- Not included Massage
- Not included Naturalist guide
- Not included Naturalist itineraries
- Not included Sauna
- Not included Snorkel equipment
- Not included Spa
- Not included Stand up paddleboard
- Not included Wakeboarding
- Not included Water ski
- Not included Yoga
Other Activities FAQs for the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard
Are kayaks available on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Are stand up paddleboards available on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Is snorkel equipment provided on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Is there a jacuzzi or hot tub on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Is the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard suitable for non-divers?
Is there a naturalist guide or naturalist itinerary on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Is there a library on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Is yoga offered on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Are wellness services available on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Are jet skis available on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Is water skiing available on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Is wakeboarding available on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Is fishing offered on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Is there a glass bottom boat on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Are land excursions included on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard?
Included in the price of the liveaboard trip:
- • Kayaks
All Thailand's Discounted Liveaboard Deals & Last Minute Discounts
Smiling Seahorse Included in the Price
When you book the Smiling Seahorse 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 Smiling Seahorse liveaboard fare.
A review of the list of features 'included' in the price of the Smiling Seahorse 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 BBQ
- Included Cabin towels
- Included Deck towels
- Included Diving package
- Included Drinking water
- Included Full-board meal plan (All meals)
- Included Kayaks
- 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 Smiling Seahorse 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
Smiling Seahorse Optional Paid Extras
Enhance your Smiling Seahorse charter with these optional upgrades available for an additional cost. Nitrox helps extend your bottom time at the sites around Thailand.
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 Smiling Seahorse liveaboard. Click a feature to find liveaboards including this in the price:
- Included Airport transfer
- Included Alcoholic beverages
- Included Gratuities
- Included Hotel transfer
- Included Land excursions
- Included Nitrox
- Included Nitrox course
- Included Private dive guide
- Included Rental gear
- Included Scuba diving courses
- Included Snorkel Gear
Smiling Seahorse Required Paid Extras
Please note some essential costs are not included in the base price of the Smiling Seahorse 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 Smiling Seahorse liveaboard. Click a feature to find liveaboards where this is covered in the price (when applicable):
- Included National park fees
Smiling Seahorse Vessel Details
- Length: 25.0m (82.0ft)
- Beam: 6.0m (19.7ft)
- Max guests: 16
- Cabins: 8
- Bathrooms: 8
Smiling Seahorse Boat navigation and safety
Navigation and safety aboard the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard are built around dependable positioning and rapid response.
A review of the full list of navigation and safety features for the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard. Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard scores 76% on the SDE Liveaboard Rating for navigation & safety, which means it has 13 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 E.P.I.R.B. Distress System
- Included Emergency Rafts
- Included Engine room CCTV
- Included Fire Alarm & Fire Extinguishers
- Included First Aid Kits
- Included Fishfinder
- Included GPS
- Included Life Vests
- Included Oxygen
- Included Radio VHF/DSC/SSB
- Included Search light
Show features not found
The smiling seahorse boat navigation and safety that are not found on the Smiling Seahorse Liveaboard:
- Not included Crew Trained in First Aid
- Not included Emergency Flares
- Not included Radar
- Not included Satellite & Mobile Phones