MV Manta Queen 3

Anyone searching for the best value and availability, along with a new, large, stable & comfortable diving ship need look no further than Manta Queen 3. This large (35m x 7m) boat was built in 2011, yet still receives annual renovations, keeping it like new. In 2018 MQ3 had a complete cabin refit, giving it more twin & double cabins with private en suite bathrooms.
Its steel hull and purpose-built design ensure that trips are both safe and comfortable, as well as a lot of friendly fun. Pickup and drop off transfers from local hotels are included in the unbeatably-low prices, and the great value doesn’t stop there. Low-priced PADI dive courses can be taken on board and all meals, snacks, fruits, drinking water, tea & coffee are free, too. New for October 2018, MQ3 has Free Wi-Fi when it's in range. This is normally for the first 36 hours and final 24 hours of each cruise.

Choosing to dive at the Similan Islands aboard Manta Queen 3 is a great idea for solo divers, couples, families and even large groups of friends. There are double bed, twin bed and 4 bed shared cabins, all of which have air conditioning and parquet wood paneling. The best-value cabins have shared bathroom facilities, but en suites are available for those who want more privacy.

The communal areas of Manta Queen 3 are very spacious and well thought out. During and after the local and western food is served (buffet style) guests can relax together in a large air-conditioned saloon or on the open-air shaded dining area. There’s plenty of space to socialize and share stories or get away from the crowd and gaze at the stars, read a good book, or just top up your holiday suntan.

The large size of Manta Queen 3 means that it is easily capable of accommodating up to 28 guests and absorbing anything the Andaman Sea can throw at it. Also the number of guests means that you are more likely to be diving in a group of others at your level and experience. PADI diving professionals organise & lead each dive, and can point out or find particular species of marine life. With such low prices and free  transfers, a great selection of air-conditioned cabins and a new, sturdy, steel-hulled, purpose-built boat, there is usually no reason to look anywhere else.

Prices & Schedule

The 4D/4N Manta Queen 3 diving cruise itinerary is as follows. 

Manta Queen 3 sets sail from the pier at Thab Lamu just to the south of Khao Lak in the evening, normally after 7pm. First, guests check in at the PADI dive centre in Khao Lak. Some guests make their own way to the dive centre, but most take advantage of the free pickup service from Khao Lak, or cheap transfers from Phuket. When documentation checks, equipment fitting, and final payments are done, the passengers are driven to the boat.

After a boat briefing and a light evening meal, MQ3 sails into the night. Diving first thing the following morning.

The ship docks mid to late afternoon on the final day and guests are transferred to the dive centre, then on to local hotels. Those wanting to go to Phuket can take advantage of inexpensive scheduled transfers.

This itinerary is 4D/4N and 15 dives; twelve daytime dives and three night (or sunset) dives.

Click below for more details.