Da Nang/Hoi An: Cham Island Speedboat Tour with Snorkeling

Thinking about a day of sun, sea, and snorkelling around Cham Island? While the Cham Island Speedboat Tour with Snorkeling isn’t perfect, it offers a worthwhile glimpse into Vietnam’s marine beauty and local culture. We’ve looked into what this tour really delivers — from the quick boat rides to the vibrant reefs — and what you should expect before booking your spot.

We love the accessibility of this trip, the delicious seafood lunch on the island, and the chance to get up close to abundant marine life. The friendly guides make a difference, and the overall experience is quite manageable for most travelers. That said, it isn’t without its challenges — like crowded snorkel spots and some misleading descriptions. This tour is best suited for those who want a taste of Cham Island without a full-day commitment, especially if you’re keen on snapping photos and enjoying a relaxed beach vibe.

Key Points

• Affordable price point makes this a good value for a half-day adventure.
• Snorkeling and marine viewing are accessible, but expect crowds.
• The lunch on the island is a highlight, offering traditional Vietnamese seafood.
• Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the trip more enjoyable.
• Be prepared for bumpy boat rides and crowded snorkel spots.
• Not ideal for travelers with motion sickness or who want a lengthy, immersive experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Cham Island Speedboat Tour

This tour packs a lot into 5.5 hours — starting from your hotel pickup in Da Nang or Hoi An, to the scenic boat ride and the chance to dip into the island’s marine environment. It’s designed for those looking for a quick escape from city life, with a taste of island charm, delicious food, and underwater adventures.

The tour’s appeal lies in its simplicity and value. For just around $37 per person, you get transportation, a guided exploration, snorkeling, and a local seafood lunch. It’s a straightforward package, but one that covers the essentials for a fun day out.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Pickup and Transportation

Your adventure kicks off early, with hotel pickups in Da Nang or Hoi An. The service is fairly flexible, with multiple pickup points (up to 19 options, including districts and neighborhoods). Expect a 30-minute van ride to Cua Dai Port, which offers a chance to relax and chat with your fellow travelers. We appreciate the timely pickups and the clear instructions, making the start of the day hassle-free.

Visit Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village

On the way, there’s a 15-minute stop at Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village. It’s a quick peek at local craftsmanship, perfect for snapping photos and picking up small souvenirs. It’s a nice touch that adds a bit of cultural flavor before heading to the island.

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High-Speed Boat to Cham Island

Once at Cua Dai Port, you’ll hop on a high-speed boat that whizzes you across the water in about 30 minutes. The ride can be bumpy, especially if the sea is choppier than usual — a fact acknowledged by some reviewers who mention a “bumpy AF” boat ride, but also note that it’s part of the fun.

Exploring Cham Island

Arriving at Cham Island, the group explores parts of the Biosphere Reserve, visiting sites like the Cham Ancient Well and Hai Tang Pagoda. These stops are brief but meaningful, giving you a taste of local history and natural beauty. You’ll also have time to visit the seafood market at Tan Hiep, a lively spot where you can see the day’s catch.

Beach Time and Snorkeling

Next up is some beach time at Bai Lang, Bai Ong, or Bai Chong — prime spots for swimming, sunbathing, or just relaxing on the sand. If you want to change into your swimsuit, the tour allows for a quick change, but some reviews suggest the facilities could be better.

The main event, snorkeling, lasts about 45 minutes. It’s a decent window to explore the coral reefs, and you’ll likely see plenty of vibrant fish. One reviewer noted seeing “many colourful fish,” although some also mentioned that the snorkeling spots can get crowded, which can detract from the experience. The reefs are thriving, but because many boats visit the same area, expect a busy underwater scene.

Lunch and Leisure Time

After snorkeling, it’s time for a family-style Vietnamese seafood lunch at a local restaurant. The meal features one type of fish and some prawns, which some reviewers felt was a limited selection. Still, the food is generally fresh, and the setting offers a relaxed break. Post-lunch, you have some free time to swim, sunbathe, or walk along the beach.

Return Journey

In the late afternoon, the group boards the speedboat again for the 20-minute ride back. Expect this to be another bumpy ride, but it’s part of the adventure. The tour concludes with a drop-off in Da Nang or Hoi An around 3:30 PM.

What We Really Think

This trip is a solid introduction to Cham Island’s natural and cultural highlights, especially if you’re short on time. The guided visits add value, helping you make sense of your surroundings, and the friendly guides make the experience more personable.

However, the snorkeling spots can feel crowded, and the description around “snorkeling” can be misleading — you’ll get about 45 minutes of actual underwater time, which might not satisfy serious snorkelers. Some reviews indicate that the beaches lack very comfortable facilities and that the boat ride can be bumpy, so bring seasickness medication if you’re prone to motion sickness.

On the food front, the lunch is decent but not extensive — you won’t find a seafood buffet, but rather a set menu of local dishes. For many, the highlight is actually the seafood and the chance to relax on the island’s scenic beaches.

Is it worth the price?

At $37, this tour offers good value for a half-day trip. It includes transportation, sightseeing, snorkeling, and a local meal, making it a hassle-free option. But if you’re craving a more immersive or quieter snorkel experience, or want to avoid crowds, you might prefer a more tailored or private tour.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for first-timers curious about Cham Island, families looking for a manageable day out, or travelers who want a quick escape from city buzz. It’s also suitable for those who enjoy a breezy boat ride and are okay with being part of a larger group.

If you’re seeking a relaxed day of beach lounging with some underwater exploration, this tour will serve you well. But if you’re a snorkel enthusiast or prefer less crowded spots, you might want to research alternative options.

Final Thoughts

The Cham Island Speedboat Tour offers a straightforward, budget-friendly way to experience a slice of Vietnam’s marine and island life. With friendly guides, delicious seafood, and beautiful coastal views, it delivers many of the essentials for a memorable day — even if it’s not the most exclusive or hidden gem around.

In the end, this experience gives you just enough time to enjoy snorkeling, explore the village, and relax on the beach, making it a good choice for those with limited time or looking for an easy-seeming adventure.

FAQs

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5.5 hours, including pickups, boat rides, sightseeing, and lunch.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, cash, comfortable shoes, and sunglasses. Avoid large luggage or bags, as they’re not permitted on the boat.

Is snorkeling worth it?
Yes, many reviews mention seeing colorful fish and thriving coral reefs, but expect some crowds at the snorkeling spots.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, guides are generally described as friendly, pleasant, and informative, adding a lot to the overall experience.

What is the lunch like?
The meal is a set Vietnamese seafood lunch featuring fish and prawns, served family-style at a local restaurant.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
Yes, for most part, but those with motion sickness or mobility issues should consider potential bumpy boat rides and slippery ladder steps.

This trip offers a nice balance of adventure and relaxation, perfect for travelers wanting a quick, affordable taste of Cham Island. Keep expectations realistic regarding crowds and facilities, but don’t miss the chance to see some vibrant marine life and enjoy fresh seafood on Vietnam’s scenic coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: