Myanmar
Southeast Asia: the untouched Mergui Archipelago, 800 islands for the adventurous
Overview
Only recently has Myanmar, previously Burma, opened its waters to visiting yachts, and a permit is still required. The Mergui Archipelago, in the south of the country near the border with Thailand, is a world-class cruising ground of beautiful tropical islands, totally untouched and unspoiled.
There are no support facilities or marinas in the archipelago, so this is cruising for the adventurous. The usual start point for such cruises is "next door" in Phuket, Thailand, from where the 800 islands are within easy reach.
Beyond the Mergui islands, Yangon and the cultural sites inland reward those who venture further. The best cruising season is November to February, and services for superyachts remain very limited.
Cruising & Map
Map Key - Ports & Cruising
- Kawthaung Port (Mergui gateway)
- Myeik (Mergui)
- Yangon (Port of Yangon)
✈ Yangon International Airport
Mergui Archipelago: 800 islands, no marinas. Licence required; cruises usually start from Phuket.
Getting There & Clearance
Clearance
Clearance is handled by the Ministry of Immigration and Population and the Myanmar Customs Department. A licence is needed before entering the country. The ports of entry are the Port of Yangon and Kawthaung Port for the Mergui Archipelago.
Government Contacts
Immigration: myanmar.gov.mm
Customs: customs.gov.mm
International Airports
Yangon International · Mandalay International.
Key Anchorages
Mergui Archipelago (800 islands) · Potter Island · Dommel Island · Kawthaung · Myeik.
Local Services
Agents
Asia Pacific Superyachts · Burma Boating · Seal Superyachts
Diving
Burma Diving
Shipyards
Myanmar Shipyards
Cruising
Mergui Archipelago
Gateway
Phuket, Thailand
Ashore
Yangon · Mandalay
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do superyachts clear in to Myanmar?
The ports of entry are the Port of Yangon and Kawthaung Port for the Mergui Archipelago, handled by the Ministry of Immigration and Population and the Myanmar Customs Department. A licence is needed before entering the country.
When is the best time to cruise Myanmar?
The best cruising season is November to February. Services for superyachts remain very limited, so careful planning and a local agent are essential.
What is the Mergui Archipelago?
The Mergui Archipelago is a world-class cruising ground of around 800 untouched tropical islands in the south of Myanmar, near the border with Thailand. There are no marinas, so it is cruising for the adventurous.
How do superyachts reach the Mergui Archipelago?
The usual start point is Phuket in Thailand, which is next door to the southern islands, with clearance into Myanmar at Kawthaung.