In the far southeast, the Myeik Archipelago (or Mergui as it was known in British times) is a collection of around 800 tropical islands and islets, fringed by dazzling coral reefs. Teeming with marine life, the waters are regarded as among the richest and least explored in Asia.
They’re also the traditional home of the Moken Sea Gypsies, who traditionally spent most of the year travelling around the archipelago on houseboats, but have recently been settled by the Burmese government in permanent villages. Off limits to foreign tourists for decades, the Myeik region can today be accessed by live aboard dive cruises.
For the adventurous the archipelago offers opportunities for sailing holidays in luxury yachts for a experience that takes you back in time to explore uninhabited, largely undocumented island and beaches lush atolls and hidden lagoons. Beginning and ending in Kawthaung, Myanmar’s southernmost town, these spell binding voyages loop around the highlights of archipelago, including villages, beaches and national parks.
Designed to be enjoyed in family groups or with friends these luxurious private yacht adventures offer opportunities to swim on deserted islands, walk and hike inland, kayaking under caves into gorgeous blue lagoons, visiting traditional Moken villages, snorkel in crystal-clear waters and savour the solitude and otherworldliness of such a remote region.