Sawadee Fasai vs. Pawara Liveaboard (4N/5D Similan Full Comparison)

Sawadee Fasai vs. Pawara Liveaboard (4N/5D Similan Full Comparison)
These are two of the most frequently compared liveaboards when choosing a Similan trip:
MV Sawadee Fasai vs. MV Pawara
Both follow the same route, operate in the same season, and offer a similar diving quality—however, they differ in boat size, layout, and overall onboard atmosphere.
In this guide, we compare everything from route / cabins / facilities / inclusions so you can choose the best fit.
1) Operating Area / Route (Same for Both)
Both boats run the classic Similan “full highlights” route:
Similan Islands
Koh Bon
Koh Tachai
Richelieu Rock
A full course covering the best dive sites in Thailand’s Andaman Sea.
2) Trip Duration / Schedule
Standard itinerary: 4 nights / 5 days (4D/4N)
Total dives: approx. 14–15 dives
Average per day: 3–4 dives
Both boats follow the same standard schedule.
3) Guest Capacity
Maximum guests
Pawara: 24–26 guests
Sawadee Fasai: 26–30 guests
What this means
Pawara: a more private / compact feel
Fasai: a larger boat with higher capacity
4) Cabin Types & Layout
MV Pawara
Cabin types: Master / Deluxe / Standard / Budget
Total cabins: approx. 12–13
Bathrooms:
-- Master / Deluxe / Standard: ensuite bathrooms
-- Budget: shared bathroom
MV Sawadee Fasai
Cabin types: Master / Deluxe / Standard / Budget
Total cabins: approx. 13–15
Layout: very similar (sister ship)
Bathrooms:
-- Master / Deluxe / Standard: ensuite bathrooms
-- Budget: shared bathroom
--> Key point: Cabin structure is almost the same, but Fasai is slightly bigger and has more cabins.
5) Diving Facilities
Shared facilities (both are well-equipped)
Large dedicated dive deck
Rinse tanks (for gear + cameras)
Drying area
Camera table
Air compressor system
Difference
Pawara: clean, stable, photo-friendly layout
Sawadee Fasai: a wider dive deck, better for handling larger groups at the same time
6) Nitrox (Same for Both)
Pawara: FREE Nitrox
Sawadee Fasai: FREE Nitrox
--> Same on both boats—and a major advantage.
7) Onboard Amenities
Common amenities
Air-conditioned lounge
Sun deck (sunbeds)
Thai + international buffet-style meals
Coffee / fruit / snacks available throughout the day
Difference
Pawara: quieter, more relaxed and stable atmosphere
Sawadee Fasai: larger common areas, more social / lively vibe
8) Inclusions / Exclusions
Included (Both)
Cabin accommodation
All meals
Dive guide
Tanks + weights
FREE Nitrox
Drinks / snacks
Not included (Both)
National park fees (approx. 1,800–3,000 THB, subject to change)
Dive equipment rental
Personal insurance
Alcohol
Some transfers (varies by package)
Conclusion (Quick Recommendation)
Choose Pawara if you want:
A quieter atmosphere
Stable, well-organized diving
Photo/video-friendly setup
Choose Sawadee Fasai if you want:
A bigger boat
A more social / energetic vibe
Group trips or larger travel parties
One-line summary:
--> “Both are excellent-value Similan liveaboards—Pawara is the calm/compact style, while Fasai is the bigger/expanded style.”
Early Bird Booking / Enquiry
Early bookings before the season can secure the best price.
WhatsApp: +66 81 891 3072
Liveaboard Special Deals Available
#similanislands #similandiving #thailanddiving #thailandliveaboard #divethailand #phuketdiving #kaolakdiving #andamansea #richelieurock #kohbon




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