Burma Myanmar Banner 2019 (5).jpg Logo Burma (1)
Back to Listing

Mergui Archipelago

The Mergui Archipelago is one of the last untouched and unspoilt tropical destinations left on earth. Eight-hundred islands are scattered in the Andaman Sea off the western shore of Burma’s (Myanmar's) remote south, just across from the Thai border, and with only a few dozen visitors to the entire area each month the region is virtually unknown to the outside world.

The group of islands, with powder white beaches, swaying palm trees and dense jungle, are near deserted, save for a few fishermen in dugout canoes and the elusive Moken sea gypsies – a semi-nomadic tribe living a hunter-gatherer lifestyle heavily based on the sea. The lack of human interference has left the islands with a full range of animal life, no longer found undisturbed on the Asian mainland. Azure waters are swimming with colourful reef fish and spotted corals, and above water you can see eagles circling, gibbons screeching and monitor lizards eyeing you from the thickets.

Compared with the rest of Burma this area does not have a solid tourism infrastructure and there are no luxury resorts in this region (in fact, the archipelago only opened to foreigners as recently as the late 1990s having been off-limits since the end of World War II), so the best way to experience these beautiful islands is by luxury yacht, and the area lends itself perfectly to sailing. Burma Boating have a fleet of super sexy sailing yachts which offer the utmost in comfort and service, ideal for private or shared charter. With specialist and charming crew, expert chefs and knowledgeable captains, you can be sure that all your needs are catered for every sailing. You can sail for days on end on the crystal-clear water, mooring at any number of caves and beautiful beaches, which are the highlights of any Mergui cruise. Along with the rest of Myanmar, the archipelago is a blossoming destination that's ripe with culture, and makes for the perfect end to any trip to Burma or Southeast Asia.

The main sea port for sailing trips into the archipelago is Kawthaung, which is easily accessible with regular flights from Yangon. The town itself is nothing special, with very few hotel and restaurant options, and even less tourist attractions. It is a backpacker destination and we would not advise an overnight stay here unless completely unavoidable. Alternatively, Kawthaung is a stone’s throw from Ranong in Thailand, which is a four- to five- hour drive from Phuket airport.

Mergui Archipelago Burma 12 Mergui Archipelago Burma 12
Mergui Archipelago Burma 4 Mergui Archipelago Burma 4
Mergui Archipelago Burma 19 Mergui Archipelago Burma 19
Mergui Archipelago Burma 1 Mergui Archipelago Burma 1
Mergui Archipelago Burma 20 Mergui Archipelago Burma 20
Mergui Archipelago Burma 18 Mergui Archipelago Burma 18
Mergui Archipelago Burma 17 Mergui Archipelago Burma 17
Mergui Archipelago Burma 16 Mergui Archipelago Burma 16
Mergui Archipelago Burma 13 Mergui Archipelago Burma 13
Mergui Archipelago Burma 14 Mergui Archipelago Burma 14
Mergui Archipelago Burma 15 Mergui Archipelago Burma 15
Mergui Archipelago Burma 11 Mergui Archipelago Burma 11
Mergui Archipelago Burma 10 Mergui Archipelago Burma 10
Mergui Archipelago Burma 7 Mergui Archipelago Burma 7
Mergui Archipelago Burma 8 Mergui Archipelago Burma 8
Mergui Archipelago Burma 9 Mergui Archipelago Burma 9
Mergui Archipelago Burma 6 Mergui Archipelago Burma 6
Mergui Archipelago Burma 5 Mergui Archipelago Burma 5
Mergui Archipelago Burma 2 Mergui Archipelago Burma 2
When preparing to travel, lay out all your clothes and all your money. Then take half the clothes and twice the money.
Susan Heller

Client Testimonials

I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India
I barely know where to begin... though a sincere 'thank you' would be the best. You have organised this trip perfectly. May was an inspiring and delightful companion in Myanmar – thoroughly professional and friendly at the same time. My accommodation throughout has been superb, especially The Governor's Residence and The Mandarin Oriental. The view from the cottage at Inle Lake was beautiful and I loved every moment of being there. And here I am now on the last leg of this extended holiday at my favourite place. I could stay here for ever, the peace, silence and surroundings all amazing, plus the people and the whole aura of Vana. Thank you for much, and I look forward to speaking to you on my return.
- Ms Margulies, Burma, India & Thailand
Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka
Getting to Amanpulo from Manila was very simple and the beach was the most beautiful I’d ever been on; pristine white sand, not a single piece of rubbish in sight. You get your own solar powered golf buggy to drive around resort (and a butler at request). The views from the Hillside Casita were spectacular!
- Mr Wyburd, Philippines
We really enjoyed the trip and were happy that we squeezed so much into a few short days. The Burmese people were lovely and the sites were fantastic. We really enjoyed the balloon ride and would highly suggest it to others in the future. The trip went super smoothly and a good time plus learning happened for all. Yangon was nice as the Strand was quite amazing and we of course loved the giant gold temple. Many thanks for all of your help and look forward to future travel with you.
- Wallace Family, Burma
Ballyfin was great - we loved it! Best things were the amount of space, it felt like you had the whole place to yourself, the history of the house, and the staff. We'd definitely recommend it. Thanks very much for all the help getting it booked!
- Mr Wyburd, Ireland
Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India
So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka
We have just returned back from a wonderful trip. Thank you very much for organising everything. The transfer was excellent – for once they had perfect car seats. The villa was lovely, just what we needed and the hotel had helpfully put us as far away as possible from everyone else. The breakfast buffet was the best I have ever seen – and I am slightly obsessive over breakfast!! There was an incredible choice, something for everyone and so beautifully presented. A real highlight of the trip. Thank you again for sorting everything - and at such short notice!
- Redmayne family, Phuket
Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.
- Mr & Mrs Manson, North India
Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
- Mr David Wallace, North India
Difficult to choose the highlight of the trip, can’t choose between… 1) Taj Mahal & Oberoi Amarvilas. 2) Ranthambore. 3) Lake Palace. We have to say a particular thank you for selecting Parmod as our driver. He is a delightful and kind man who took our holiday and our enjoyment as his responsibility. Thank you for putting together such an amazing trip for us. The balance of city and rural destinations was perfect for us and the variety of rooms and hotel types brilliant. Our driver and guides also added so much to the trip with their knowledge of India’s history and culture and their willingness to discuss it both from a professional and personal angle.
- Carruthers family, North India
I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India
We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
- Jaime Benitez, South India
I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India
Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India

Let us keep you up to date

Sign up to our newsletter and never miss out on unmissable exclusive luxury experiences