Overview
Sawasdee Fasai is a steel-hulled liveaboard offering regular 4-day / 4-night trips to the Similan Islands, Surin Islands, and Richelieu Rock. Slightly larger and marginally better appointed than her sister ship Pawara, she fits firmly in the mid-range bracket — offering good comfort, solid service, and reliable diving without drifting into luxury pricing.
Boat & Facilities
The boat itself is spacious and well equipped, with indoor and outdoor communal areas, a sundeck for surface intervals, and a shaded dining area. The upper deck features a dedicated camera station for photographers, and Nitrox is available for certified divers. Cabins have been modernised in recent years, although it’s clear the boat has been in service for a while.
One downside is that the boat operates at full capacity — all original staff quarters have been converted into guest cabins, meaning the crew now sleeps in the saloon. This can lead to a more crowded feel onboard, especially during peak season. Nevertheless, the boat remains clean and functional, and the team ensures smooth daily operations.
Diving Experience
Sawasdee Fasai follows a fixed Similan liveaboard route alongside Pawara, visiting all the key sites in the Similans, Surins, and Richelieu Rock. This sometimes results in two full boats diving the same sites at the same time — something to be aware of if you’re hoping to avoid large groups.
Despite this, the dive experience is generally well coordinated. Dive groups are kept small, and dive briefings are thorough. The dive deck is spacious and well organized, and surface intervals are spent relaxing on the sundeck or in the shaded areas.
Crew & Service
Like many Thai-run boats, Sawasdee Fasai benefits from a warm and welcoming crew. Many of the dive staff and boat crew have worked together for years and know the Similan region extremely well. Guests can expect helpful service, smooth logistics, and hearty meals served buffet-style.
Meals are mostly Thai dishes with some Western options available, and the kitchen is happy to accommodate dietary needs with notice. The relaxed and friendly atmosphere onboard helps make up for the boat’s slightly dated facilities.
Who is it for?
If you’re looking for a dependable Similan diving trip with decent comfort, experienced staff, and good food — without paying for a luxury experience — Sawasdee Fasai is a solid choice. It suits recreational divers of all experience levels, including those looking to dive Nitrox or travel with groups.
