The Boat

The M/V Mahtab
Built in 2006 in Ranong, Thailand of tropical hardwoods (including ironwood), the M/V Mahtab is a hardcore, self-sufficient exploration vessel. As an 80’ long all purpose "liveaboard" for a maximum 8 guest (4 double cabins), she comes equipped with air conditioned cabins. There is a large back deck and swim step and a fully covered upper deck with chairs and hammocks for lounging. She has all up to date safety and navigation equipment, 10 dive tanks, a Bauer compressor, and Shimano, Newell, and Penn rods and reels for the hardiest "stand up fishing". She sports a double sea kayak and a 25hp Yamaha powered 12ft RIB tender.



Feasts are cooked nightly in the full galley and served at the two long dining tables in the main living room. For your culinary delight, our cook Rina will prepare all your Western favorites, some Indian, Chinese and Thai foods and even a Moken (sea gypsy) seafood stew she has picked up along the way. A 29" Sony flatscreen TV with a 200 movie library or for viewing your own made videos for quiet evenings.

The Boat Operator and Guide
Scott Williams is a 26 year resident of S.E Asia who was formerly a merchant marine and U.S licensed Deck/Navigation officer aboard USA registered merchant ships. Scott has many years of experience handling large ocean going vessels in challenging conditions. Fully licensed for operating Mahtab in SE Asia and he is a PADI certified scuba diving instructor. Scott has spent many years exploring and surfing the breaks of North Sumatra.

The Chef
Rina, our cook from Indonesia, spent 8 years cooking Indian and Chinese foods in Singapore and she cooks Western equally well. Since joining IOA she has also learned a few Moken (Sea Gypsy) recipes using traditional jungle plants and fresh seafood. Specialties include Tex Mex chili, spaghetti Bolognese, Thai coconut soup, and so much more. Fresh, and good, coffee brewed every morning. And we have a bread maker on board for warm fresh bread.