Crayfish Cave - Mergui Archipelago

Dropping down at Crayfish Cave, you'll find the entrance to a swim-through arch around 22 metres. It’s not a huge cave system, more of a deep archway, but it does get dark enough inside that we'd suggest bringing a torch to properly appreciate the colours. Look for the colourful sponges, lazy lobsters, and yes, plenty of crayfish tucked into the crevices. On the way out, you’ll likely meet a friendly school of striped snapper hanging around the exit, and the seafans wave gently in the current. It’s a straightforward dive, good for anyone comfortable in enclosed spaces, offering a nice change of pace from the outer reef.

Location
Mergui Archipelago, Myanmar, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
9.000000, 97.750000
Type
cave
Maximum Depth
22m+

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 Crayfish Cave

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 Crayfish Cave

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 is the typical depth range for diving at Crayfish Cave, and are there any particularly deep sections?
The dive at Crayfish Cave typically begins around 22 meters, where the cave and arch entrance is located. While it starts at 22m, the site description indicates it "slopes up," suggesting the deepest point is around the entrance, with the interior being shallower. Divers should be prepared for depths of 22 meters and potentially slightly deeper at the entry point.
What kind of marine life, besides crayfish, can divers expect to see inside and around Crayfish Cave?
Beyond crayfish, divers at Crayfish Cave can expect a vibrant array of marine life. Outside the cave, look for a friendly school of stripped snapper and colorful seafans adorning the rock formations. Inside the cavern, you'll discover colorful sponges, sweeper fish, and lobsters, making for a rich wildlife encounter.
How challenging is the diving at Crayfish Cave, and what skill level is recommended for divers?
Diving at Crayfish Cave is rated as an intermediate difficulty dive. It's described as an easy cavern dive, making it accessible for divers with some experience. However, a dive light is highly recommended for navigating the initial darker sections of the swim-through to enhance safety and visibility.
What are the best times of year or day to dive Crayfish Cave for optimal conditions and marine life encounters?
The provided data does not specify the best times of year or day for diving Crayfish Cave for optimal conditions or marine life encounters. For general information on seasonal diving in the Mergui Archipelago, please consult our When to Dive section.
What specific diving certifications are required or highly recommended for exploring Crayfish Cave safely?
While Crayfish Cave is an easy cavern dive, its classification as a "cave" dive and "intermediate" difficulty suggests that divers should have appropriate experience. Although not explicitly stated, a Cavern Diver certification is highly recommended for safe exploration, and proficiency with a dive light is essential for the darker sections.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at Crayfish Cave, and how do they affect the dive?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding typical current conditions or visibility at Crayfish Cave. Divers planning to visit should inquire with local dive operators for the most up-to-date conditions, as these factors can significantly affect the dive experience.