

Best for advanced divers, 5-22m, boat entry, strong current.
The Arch in the Mergui Archipelago is a complex site featuring a reef, cavern system, and drift diving. Divers navigate depths between 5 and 22 metres, with visibility ranging from 15 to 40 metres. Strong currents are common, particularly through the arch, requiring advanced buoyancy control and careful current monitoring. The overhead cavern environment necessitates the use of a torch and a planned exit. Water temperatures typically range from 27 to 30 degrees Celsius. The site is accessible by boat and supports night diving. Due to the strong currents and entanglement risks, divers should carry a surface marker buoy and a dive knife.
10.13880, 97.95590
Brief your guide thoroughly on current state before each dive, as flow direction and intensity can shift between tides and catch divers out inside the cavern. Carry a surface marker buoy and a dive knife as standard kit given the entanglement risk and the likelihood of surfacing away from the boat in drift conditions.
Accessible only by liveaboard from Kawthaung or Ranong (Thailand).
Recorded at this site
Depth
5-22m
Visibility
15-40m
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
27-30°C
Current
Strong
Typical Dive
45 min
Best Time
Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, Nov, Dec
The habitat supports a variety of reef fish and invertebrates typical of the region, though specific sightings are not confirmed.
No, this site is intended for advanced divers due to strong currents, drift conditions, and the overhead cavern environment.
The site ranges from 5 to 22 metres in depth, with an average depth of 15 metres.
The Arch is a boat-only dive site located 10 kilometres from the nearest shore.
The site is primarily designed for advanced scuba diving due to the depth, strong currents, and cavern features.
Diving at The Arch in Kawthaung requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A rashguard or 2mm shorty is recommended for diving at The Arch in Kawthaung. Water temperatures range from 27°C to 30°C.
The best months to visit The Arch in Kawthaung are January, February, March, April, November, and December. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
The Arch in Kawthaung can have strong currents. Advanced experience with drift diving and current navigation is recommended.
Visibility at The Arch in Kawthaung typically ranges from 15 metres to 40 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.