A private tour with Cable car & Boat trip to An Thoi islands

Introduction: Exploring Phu Quoc’s Island Paradise

If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam’s stunning island of Phu Quoc, you’ll want an experience that combines breathtaking views, authentic island charm, and a touch of adventure. This private tour, which includes a ride on the iconic cable car, a boat trip around three beautiful islands, and plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing, promises just that.

What we love about this package are the stunning panoramic views from the cable car, the exclusive attention from a dedicated guide, and the opportunity to visit multiple islands in a single day. Plus, the mix of land, sea, and air activities keeps the adventure dynamic. The only thing to consider is that the snorkeling might not meet the expectations of seasoned snorkelers, according to some reviews, but overall, it offers excellent value for a full day of exploring.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of scenic rides, island hopping, and beach time—all wrapped in a private, hassle-free experience. It’s perfect if you prefer a personalized itinerary and enjoy discovering less crowded spots.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines cable car rides, boat trips, snorkeling, and island exploration in one tour.
• Excellent Value: Includes most fees, lunch, and private transport, making it a convenient package.
• Authentic Local Guides: Guides with local knowledge enhance the experience with insider tips.
• Flexible & Private: Tailored for your group, avoiding crowded group tours.
• Stunning Views: Picture-perfect vistas from the cable car and idyllic island beaches.
• Some Limitations: Snorkeling may not be as impressive due to water conditions, as some reviews suggest.

The Itinerary: Breaking Down the Adventure

Start: Pickup & Cable Car to Hon Thom Island

Your day begins with a hotel pick-up, whisking you southward from your accommodation to the cable car station. The journey itself is part of the fun, as the vehicle is air-conditioned and comfortable, setting a relaxed tone for the day. Once you reach the base of the cable car, you’ll ascend the Hon Thom cable car, which is a highlight by itself.

The ride offers spectacular views of the islands, fishing boats, and pearl farms, as a reviewer noted, creating a sense of anticipation. The cable car is modern, offering ample space and smooth transit, with the ticket including free transfers to the small beach on Hon Thom Island. Expect a 15-20 minute ride that provides plenty of photo opportunities, especially of the turquoise waters and lush islands below.

Stop 1: Hon Thom Island – Beach & Play Area

Once on Hon Thom, you’ll find a small but charming golden-sand beach, perfect for a quick swim or a relaxing break. This spot features a fun floating playground resembling a jumping castle—great for families or those young at heart. Water swings, deck chairs, and shady palm trees make it a lovely setting for unwinding.

Reviewers mention that the water’s turquoise color makes it hard not to take endless photos, and the beach is surprisingly uncrowded. It’s an ideal spot for a gentle start, with plenty of time allocated before heading back to the boat for the island-hopping segment.

Stop 2: Gam Ghi Island – Paradise Found

Next, you’ll board the private speedboat for a scenic hop to Gam Ghi Island, often described as one of Phu Quoc’s most untouched slices of paradise. The journey itself is a highlight—cruising over calm waters with panoramic views of lush green islands.

On arrival, soft white sand beaches and vibrant coral reefs await. One review highlights this as “one of Phu Quoc’s best beaches,” despite its relative obscurity. Expect around an hour here to swim, snorkel, and snap photos. The coral teeming with marine life makes it a favorite for snorkelers, though water clarity varies with weather conditions. Some visitors found the snorkeling not as spectacular as hoped, citing water quality and roughness, but the chance to see colorful fish up close remains a draw.

Stop 3: May Rut Island – Relaxation & Exploration

Moving on, your next stop is May Rut Ngoai Island (Ocean Pearl Island). Here, the focus is on relaxing and exploring the pristine beach. Reviewers mention the beautiful sand and clear waters, perfect for a leisurely swim or just soaking up the sun. It’s a quieter spot, ideal for unwinding after the more active snorkeling on Gam Ghi.

The highlight for many is the chance to simply relax and take in the stunning scenery, with some guests noting the peaceful atmosphere makes it feel like a true escape.

Stop 4: Bom Island – Snorkeling & Marine Life

The boat next takes you to Bom Island for more snorkeling. The shallow waters—about 10 meters deep—are great for observing coral and marine life, with many colorful fish darting around. This stop is highly appreciated by those who love underwater scenery, with reviewers describing encounters with numerous vibrant fish.

One guest said, “It’s exciting to see many colorful fish around you when snorkeling,” which indicates the marine environment here is lively despite the water not being crystal clear all year round. It’s a good spot for families and beginners eager to see marine life up close.

Stop 5: Finger Nail Island – Lunch & Relaxation

Finally, you’ll head to Finger Nail Island (Mong Tay) for a late lunch and some downtime. The island’s name reflects its distinctive shape, and it’s a scenic place for a beachside meal. The tour includes a delicious lunch, usually featuring local dishes, and enough time for lounging, swimming, and even a short drone video to capture your day.

Guests rave about the opportunity to relax on a beautiful beach and enjoy a freshly prepared meal, making this a perfect finish to a busy day.

Practical Details & What You Can Expect

Transportation & Comfort

The tour provides air-conditioned vehicle transportation from and back to your hotel, which is a big plus. The private speedboat is well-maintained, offering a smooth ride across the waters. The flexibility of private travel means you won’t be stuck with a large group, allowing for a more personalized experience, and your guide is an English speaker with local knowledge—adding value to the trip through storytelling and recommendations.

Duration & Timing

Spanning approximately 4 to 6 hours, this tour is a full but manageable day trip. The itinerary is well-paced, with about an hour at each island, allowing for swimming, snorkeling, relaxing, or taking photos, and two hours on Finger Nail Island for lunch and leisure. The start time around 8:45 AM gives ample daylight for all activities, especially if you’re keen on catching sunset views later in the day.

Cost & Value

At $205 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package that includes most essentials: cable car tickets, snorkeling gear, lunch, private boat, and guide services. Considering the inclusive nature, excellent guide attention, and the variety of experiences—scenic rides, island exploration, and beach downtime—it delivers good value, especially for travelers wanting an all-in-one adventure.

Reviews & Authentic Insights

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides—with one reviewer mentioning Jackson, a local guide who “loves the ocean,” which adds a personal touch. The stunning views from the cable car frequently earn a mention, with many describing the scenery as breathtaking.

While some note that snorkeling conditions might not always meet expectations due to water quality, this is a common challenge in outdoor marine environments. Still, the opportunity to see vibrant fish and coral remains a highlight for many travelers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure-loving families, couples, and solo travelers seeking a flexible, private day on the water. It suits those who want to maximize island visits without the hassle of organizing multiple trips themselves. It’s also ideal if you’re looking for a mix of scenic rides, beach time, and marine activities, all wrapped in a comfortable, guided package.

However, if snorkeling is your main focus and you’re a seasoned diver, you might want to research water conditions beforehand, as some reviews suggest the underwater scenery could be variable.

The Sum Up: An Authentic, Well-Rounded Island Adventure

This private tour offers a balanced blend of scenic cable car rides, island hopping, snorkeling, and relaxation that captures the essence of Phu Quoc’s natural beauty. The inclusion of a knowledgeable guide and private transport makes it a hassle-free option that maximizes your day.

It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a personalized experience, want to explore multiple islands without the stress of planning, and value comfort and convenience. The combination of stunning vistas, quiet beaches, and engaging marine activities makes this tour a compelling choice for those looking to uncover the best of Phu Quoc’s south coast.

While snorkeling conditions might vary, the overall experience delivers excellent value and memorable moments—perfect for families, couples, or anyone eager to see the island’s highlights in one well-organized day.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is private, so it can be tailored for families with children. The activities such as swimming and beach time are generally safe, but always consider your child’s swimming ability and comfort with boat rides.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, pickup is offered from your hotel, making the experience hassle-free from start to finish.

How long does the cable car ride last?
The cable car ride to Hon Thom Island takes about 15-20 minutes, providing great views along the way.

Are snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, allowing you to explore marine life comfortably.

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $205 per person, which covers transport, cable car tickets, snorkeling gear, lunch, and guiding services.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, with full refunds.

Is there enough time for relaxing on the beach?
Absolutely. The itinerary balances active activities with plenty of time to unwind, especially at Finger Nail Island where you can relax post-lunch.

This tour offers a thoughtfully curated blend of scenery, adventure, and relaxation, making it a standout option for exploring Phu Quoc’s south shore without the stress of organizing multiple activities.