Cockscomb Island - Mergui Archipelago

Cockscomb Island, just a couple of hours from Kawthaung, is a curious spot often chosen for a last, easy dive. We're talking about a limestone island with a lagoon tucked inside, accessible through several low openings in the rock. It's a shallow dive, maybe two to three meters deep, where you fin through these narrow passages into a sunlit natural pool. Inside, it's mostly rock walls and a calm, protected environment – more of a unique geological experience than a coral bonanza. Think schools of small fish flitting in and out of crevices and the cool feel of the rock. It's perfect for a relaxed finish to a trip, especially if you appreciate interesting topography.

Location
Mergui Archipelago, Myanmar, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
9.983300, 98.150000

Best Time to Dive in Mergui Archipelago

The warmest water temperatures in Mergui Archipelago occur in May, averaging 30.8°C. The coolest conditions are in January at 28.5°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.5°C
  • February: 28.9°C
  • March: 29.6°C
  • April: 30.7°C
  • May: 30.8°C
  • June: 29.9°C
  • July: 29.5°C
  • August: 29.2°C
  • September: 28.9°C
  • October: 29.0°C
  • November: 29.2°C
  • December: 28.7°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Mergui Archipelago

Nearest Dive Centres to Cockscomb Island

Marine Life in Mergui Archipelago

Home to 173 recorded species including 106 reef fish, 49 hard corals, 8 seagrass & algae, 3 sharks & rays, 2 other, 2 octopus & squid.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Cockscomb Island

Based on average water temperature of 29.4°C, currents 7 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 29°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of marine life and corals can divers expect to see at Cockscomb Island?
While Cockscomb Island is classified as a reef dive site, specific details regarding the types of marine life and corals divers can expect to see are not available in our current data. For general information on marine species found in the region, you might explore our wildlife database.
When is the best time of year to visit Cockscomb Island for diving and snorkeling?
Our current data for Cockscomb Island does not specify the best time of year for diving and snorkeling. For general guidance on dive seasons in the Mergui Archipelago, you may wish to consult our When to Dive section.
How challenging is the diving at Cockscomb Island, especially when entering the heart-shaped lagoon?
Diving at Cockscomb Island is rated as intermediate difficulty. When entering the aptly named 'Hidden Lagoon' through the limestone openings, divers will navigate shallow sections at depths of around 2-3m. It is important to consider these shallow depths in your dive profile calculations, especially given the unique entry points.
What are the typical depths for scuba diving around Cockscomb Island?
While the typical overall depth for diving around Cockscomb Island is currently unknown, specific sections offer unique shallow diving experiences. Divers exploring the openings into the 'Hidden Lagoon' can expect to dive through at depths of around 2-3m. This shallow nature makes it a popular choice for the final dive of a cruise.
Are there any specific scuba diving certifications required to dive at Cockscomb Island?
Our current data for Cockscomb Island does not specify any particular scuba diving certifications required. However, given its classification as an intermediate difficulty dive site, divers should possess adequate experience and training for such conditions. Always ensure your certification level matches the demands of the dive.
What are the usual water conditions and currents like for diving around Cockscomb Island?
Details regarding the usual water conditions and currents for diving around Cockscomb Island are not provided in our current data. It is always recommended to check with local dive operators for the most up-to-date information on conditions before planning your dive.