Mergui Island Expedition – North Route

MY Drenec

Explore in style

Drenec was built in The Netherlands as a working boat designed to spend long weeks on the open seas. In 1986, she underwent a major overhaul and was reborn as a high-class expedition vessel. Drenec spent the following years on expeditions to the Arctic, the Indian Ocean, Central American waters and the Mediterranean. In 2012, she was completely refitted and upgraded in Malta with the interior designed by Sophie Bouakel-Kastelein.

Cabins & Quarters

Drenec has five spacious guest cabins, four with double beds and one with a twin bed. All cabins have ensuite bathrooms equipped with heated towel holders and the large owner’s suite additionally features a bathtub.
With designated workspaces and sofas, the cabins feel like comfortable hotel rooms, designed with great love for detail.
All cabins are fully air-conditioned and have flatscreen TV sets. Guests have access to the large digital movie library through the yacht’s on-board media system.
Drenec has all the luxury comfort you can expect from a yacht of her size.

Decks: main, upper and sun deck all covered with teak, with teak-varnished handrails Cabins: 1 owner’s suite, 4
staterooms, each with individual bathrooms, air-con, etc.

Activities: 2 canoes; water skiing, snorkelling, diving, stand-up paddle board Entertainment: library, movie library, on-board spa service Communication: Satellite phone, satellite internet, HF and VHF radio.

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What’s included?

All on-board meals, all nonalcoholic drinks, all activities as per itinerary, fuel, etc.

What is not included?

Visa fees (~US$40 per person, subject to changes), transfers to and from the yachts (see under price and dates), Mergui Archipelago zone fees US$250 per person.

Do I need to know how to sail?

No. Our experienced crew can do all the sailing for you while you relax. If you like, our crew can involve you and teach you sailing basics.

Can I sail myself?

Absolutely. You can get as involved as you like. From navigating to setting sails and steering the boat – you or your entire group can crew the ship. If you have enough sailing experience, you can even be the skipper.

How do I get there?

We can arrange to pick you up anywhere in the area – it’s up to you. We recommend meeting you on Phuket Island in Thailand, which has an international airport and is very easy to get to, or in Kawthaung in Myanmar’s south, just across the border from Thailand and a 5-hour car/bus ride from Phuket. Click here for more information.

Will I need a visa for Myanmar?

Yes. Most travellers will get a visa-on-arrival in Myanmar and we will take care of the procedure when you enter the country while you relax or explore. It takes no time at all. Please ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the end of your cruise. Click here for more information.

Is it safe to travel in Myanmar’s Mergui Archipelago?

Yes, it is!
There are no violent conflicts in our sailing area, nor are there any pirates.
The archipelago is not home to crocodiles and, unless you swim around with cutlets tied to your hips, you are very unlikely to attract the attention of sharks. In fact, the number of sharks in the area has unfortunately dwindled due to shark fishing.
There is a mid-level malaria risk in southern Myanmar and you should take precautions by using mosquito-repellent and wearing long sleeves and trousers if onshore at night (which you are unlikely to be much).
All guests should get a suitable travel insurance before joining our cruises.

Is it ethically OK to travel to Myanmar?

We think so.
Until a couple of years ago, Myanmar was shunned by most international travellers. Visiting the country was seen as endorsement of the then military dictatorship, a view supported by Aung San Suu Kyi, the pro-democracy leader. Since then, things have fundamentally changed in Myanmar and Suu Kyi has been released from house arrest. She and her party now embrace individual and ethical tourism by travellers whose money does not go straight into the pockets of the generals. We are here to support just that.

How do I book?

Easy. Just send us an email stating your preferred cruise dates, number of guests and preferred cabin. We will be in touch to confirm or answer your questions.
Also do let us know if you preferred to charter the whole yacht for a private cruise.

What about money, cash and the local currency?

The local currency is the Myanmar Kyat (MMK) with an exchange rate of 1 USD to about 1,000 MMK. Do bring cash as the newly installed ATMs in Kawthaung may not function and as credit cards are not always accepted. For any purchases in the region, you can also use Thai Bhat – the change you will receive will most likely be in Kyat.

What else should I bring?

You don’t need much. Bring your bathers, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, your camera and you’re pretty much set! It’s best to also bring mosquito repellent and you may want to consider bringing anti-malarial tablets. Do remember to get a travel insurance before joining our cruise. On board, you won’t need shoes but you can bring flip-flops or reef shoes for beach outings if you want.
It would be great if you could bring soft luggage instead of a hard-case suitcase so that it can be stored away more easily after unpacking.
We provide full lodging, including bedding, towels, all meals, water and soft drinks. We also provide fishing and snorkelling equipment and first-aid, if necessary.

What’s the best season to go?

The best time for sailing in the Mergui Archipelago is between November and end of April. The rainy season starts in May and ends in late October.

What will the water temperature be like?

Beautiful, during the day time 26-29°C or 79-84°F! The water temperature will be about 26-29°C.

How many other people will be on the yacht?

You can join our cabin charter cruises with 2 to 8 guests on Meta IV or up to 12 guests on Raja Laut. If you charter the yacht for a private cruise, it depends on you.

Is there on-board power, fresh water and internet?

Every cabin has power points (plus fans and air-cons). There is fresh water for showering and in the kitchen. Internet is not available on-board.

Will I have to share a bathroom?

Every cabin has its own bathroom and each comes with a shower, sink and toilet.

What kind of food do you serve?

Our chefs specialise in Asian cuisine but also serve Western dishes. Six weeks prior to departure we ask all our guests about their preferences.