If you are a reader of my travel blog and GlobeRovers Magazine, you know my penchant for off-the-beaten-path destinations. I believe that true adventure lies in venturing to places often overlooked by ordinary travellers.
In this post, I want to introduce you to Boulder Bay Eco Resort on Boulder Island (Nga Khin Nyo Gyi Island in the Burmese language) which is easily accessible by boat from Ranong on the west coast of Thailand so we do not have to travel via Yangon, the capital of Myanmar.
Boulder Island is one of the world’s most pristine and remote islands in Asia’s largely unexplored Mergui Archipelago. Although I had the privilege of exploring the stunning Mergui Archipelago a few years ago (2018), I have yet to set foot on Boulder Island and experience the wonders of the Boulder Bay Eco Resort. There are no other accommodations on the entire island, making it private for the resort and its guests. Based on my knowledge of the islands in this archipelago that I have visited in the past, I have no doubt about the magnificence of this hidden gem.
I will visit Boulder Bay Eco Resort over the next few months and will then provide a very detailed review.
The Mergui Archipelago (also known as the Myeik Archipelago or Myeik Kyunzu) comprises over 800 islands nestled in the Andaman Sea west of the southern part of Myanmar (Burma). This remote region beckons with its untouched beauty and captivating landscapes.
Varying in size from tiny islets to sprawling jungles, the islands feature a diverse mix of limestone and granite formations draped in lush tropical foliage. As you set foot on these pristine shores you will be surrounded by picturesque beaches, rocky headlands, and in some areas, tranquil mangrove swamps. Venture offshore and you’ll discover vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, a playground for diving enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
As its name suggests, Boulder Island is distinguished by its striking boulders scattered along its shores. These colossal rock formations create an atmosphere of overwhelming beauty that will leave you speechless. Imagine strolling along the sandy beaches, marvelling at the magnificent cliffs and observing the nesting sites of white-bellied sea eagles and Brahminy kites.
Boulder Bay Eco Resort features 20 bungalows built entirely of renewable, locally sourced materials. The resort’s commitment to preserving the natural environment is evident in every aspect of its design. The buildings blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape and remain mostly hidden when viewed from the sea. This careful integration allows guests to feel completely immersed in nature, undisturbed by the presence of human structures.
The resort’s multipurpose centre was completed in March 2019. It is located in its own private bay (Eagle Bay) and provides an idyllic setting for yoga retreats, weddings and corporate workshops. The pavilion is an example of beautiful and sophisticated bamboo architecture. Of particular note is the use of bamboo nails throughout, reducing the need for metal fasteners in this corrosive marine environment.
If you are a diver or snorkeler, you are in paradise! Diving in the Mergui Archipelago is mostly done from liveaboard boats whose itineraries usually do not include the area around Boulder Island. Therefore, the dive sites around Boulder Island are rarely visited. The resort offers diving and snorkelling trips to at least ten sites, and new sites are still being discovered and surveyed.
Typical of the Andaman Sea, marine life is very diverse, ranging from tiny nudibranchs to massive manta rays and even whale sharks. Due to its location on the western edge of the Mergui Archipelago, the water around Boulder Island is usually clearer with visibility between 10 to 30 metres depending on the condition of the sea and the diving site. Massive granite boulders with swim-throughs and stunning limestone walls covered with sea fans and soft corals make for an interesting topography and underwater landscape. With maximum depths between 18 and 30 metres, all dive sites are suitable for beginners and experienced divers alike.
In addition to exploring the resort and the island’s jungle, the resort also offers land and boat safaris, so there’s plenty to do!
One of the most fascinating aspects of this region is the presence of the Moken people, also known as sea gypsies, whom you will most likely encounter as you explore the islands. These indigenous people have inhabited the archipelago for centuries, leading a nomadic lifestyle centred around the abundant resources of the sea. The Moken’s close connection with the sea and their ancient traditions make encountering them a truly enriching experience.
The dry season is the best time to visit these islands and begins in early October and ends next May. During the monsoon season (June to September) the resort is closed while the islands are bathed in invigorating tropical downpours that rejuvenate the land and its inhabitants.
The resort is open from early October each year, so it’s best to book now before the limited bungalows are fully booked. This is a holiday you will not soon forget.
Stay tuned for my comprehensive review of the island and resort after my upcoming visit. I will share my personal experiences and findings with you so you can make an informed decision about your visit.
Check out Boulder Bay Eco Resort’s website for more information and contact them to book an unforgettable experience. Alternatively, make contact via info@boulderbayecoresort.com.
The beautiful photos in this blogpost were captured by one of the world’s most gifted photographers, David Van Driessche. Check out David’s photos at www.davidvandriessche.com, or even better, book a place on one of his popular travel photography workshops.
☛ Read more:
Scuba Diving Myanmar’s Myeik Archipelago
Unspoiled Mergui Archipelago – Asia’s Paradise
Blog post and photos by Peter who has been travelling almost full-time since 2005 and has been to over 122 countries. He visited several countries, such as Japan, more than 20 times. Peter is Editor-in-Chief and Publisher of GlobeRovers Magazine, an independent travel magazine focused on intrepid destinations.