Hoi An: Cham Island Discover Scuba Dive for Beginner 1-Day

Exploring the underwater world without prior diving certification can seem daunting, but this Discover Scuba Dive tour from Hoi An makes it both accessible and fun. Designed specifically for non-certified divers, it promises a day full of adventure, stunning sea life, and plenty of memorable moments—all at an affordable price of just $71.

This tour is especially appealing for those curious about diving but hesitant to commit to a full certification course. It offers a taste of the ocean’s beauty through shallow reefs, a delicious seafood lunch, and a thrilling speedboat ride. However, it’s worth noting that the experience depends heavily on good weather—canceled trips due to rough seas are possible. Perfect for beach lovers, families, or anyone wanting a gentle introduction to the underwater realm, this excursion balances adventure and comfort well.

Key Points

• Accessible for Beginners: No experience required, suitable from age 10.
• All-Inclusive Value: Equipment, marine park fees, and lunch included.
• Short but Sweet: About 7 to 7.5 hours from pick-up to drop-off.
• Memorable Underwater Moments: Shallow reefs with vibrant coral and marine life.
• Thrilling Transport: Speedboat rides add a dash of excitement.
• Beautiful Setting: Combine sea exploration with relaxing beach time at Chong Beach.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Tour Experience

The Cham Island Discover Scuba Dive is designed for those who’ve always wanted to try diving but didn’t want to go through a full certification process. It’s ideal for first-timers, families, or anyone looking for an easy, safe way to explore the ocean. The tour balances fun, safety, and value, making it a compelling choice for a day trip out of Hoi An.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the chance to see colorful coral gardens and marine creatures at a maximum depth of around 6 meters. The boat rides are lively and scenic, giving you a taste of the open sea while maintaining a manageable pace suitable for beginners.

While the trip’s core focus is on the underwater adventure, the highlight for many is the delicious seafood lunch and free time to relax on Chong Beach. The tour’s structure, with its emphasis on safety and education, means you’ll receive comprehensive briefings beforehand, easing any nerves about breathing underwater for the first time.

What Sets This Tour Apart

What really shines about this tour is its simplicity and inclusiveness. You don’t need any prior experience, and children from age 10 can join in the fun. The equipment—mask, snorkel, fins, wetsuits, BCD, tank, and weights—is imported and provided, so all you need to do is show up ready for adventure.

The guided aspect is also noteworthy; an English-speaking guide takes you through each step, ensuring you’re comfortable and informed. Many reviews mention the professionalism of guides like Mr. Thanh and Mr. Huy, who go above and beyond to ensure safety and fun.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Morning Pickup and Transfer

The day begins with a hotel pickup in Hoi An around 7:30 to 8:00 AM. The organized transfer ensures a hassle-free start, with private pick-up options available for those in Da Nang or outside Hoi An, for a surcharge. It’s worth being ready early, as the tour departs from Cua Dai Harbor around 8:45 AM for the speedboat ride.

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Speedboat Adventure

The 30-minute speedboat ride to Cham Island adds an element of excitement early on. The wind in your hair and the open sea views make this part of the trip particularly enjoyable, especially if you’re a fan of scenic boat rides. Many guests mention feeling invigorated by the swift journey, signaling the start of a memorable day.

Diving at Two Marine Sites

Once on Cham Island, you’ll visit two designated dive sites, each allocated roughly one hour. Guides typically select reef spots teeming with coral and marine life, providing plenty to see at shallow depths. Expect to encounter vibrant corals, colorful fish, and perhaps even some playful small creatures, all within your comfortable 6-meter maximum depth.

Guests have commented that the guides are attentive, explaining the equipment, signals, and safety precautions thoroughly. One reviewer appreciated that, “they took the time to ensure everyone felt safe and understood what to do,” which is vital for a beginner experience.

Lunch and Free Time

At around 12:30 PM, everyone heads to Chong Beach for a delicious seafood lunch. Although drinks are not included, the meal is often described as fresh and satisfying, with some guests noting the seafood’s high quality. After lunch, there’s ample time to relax, swim, or simply soak up the sun in this beautiful bay.

The free time on the beach is another highlight—many reviewers mention the pristine sands and gentle waves, perfect for unwinding after the underwater exploration.

Return Journey

Departure from Chong Beach is scheduled at around 2:30 PM, with the group heading back via speedboat. You’re expected to arrive back at your hotel around 4:00 PM, wrapping up a full, well-paced day of adventure and relaxation.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are the hotel pick-up and drop-off in Hoi An, all necessary diving equipment, entrance fees for the marine park, and a tasty lunch. This inclusive approach simplifies planning and offers good value, especially considering the cost covers both the transport and equipment.

Not included are drinks during lunch, personal expenses, and transfers from Da Nang or other locations outside Hoi An. If you’re staying outside the central Hoi An area, private arrangements can be made for an extra fee.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring swimwear, a towel, comfortable shoes, and a change of clothes. The tour involves both water activities and beach time.
• Luggage or large bags are discouraged to avoid inconvenience during boat transfers.
• Weather conditions influence this tour heavily. Poor weather may lead to cancellations, with options for reschedule or full refunds.
• Children aged 10 and up can participate in Try Dives, making it suitable for families looking for shared experiences.
• Avoid high heels or formal footwear on the boat—focus on comfort and practicality.

Authentic Insights from Guest Reviews

Guests consistently praise the beautiful coral reefs and the ease of the experience. One review notes, “The reef was full of color, and I couldn’t believe I was breathing underwater without a full certification.” Another mentions the guides’ attentiveness, highlighting that safety was prioritized without dampening the fun.

Many loved the speedboat rides, describing them as thrilling and a perfect way to start the day. The seafood lunch, often labeled as delicious and well-prepared, adds a satisfying midday break.

Some reviewers pointed out that the availability of private pick-up helps reduce logistical stress, especially for travelers staying outside Hoi An. The tour’s timing and structure strike a balance between adventure and relaxation, making it appealing for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $71 per person, this experience packs a lot into a single day. The inclusive equipment, park entrance, boat rides, and lunch mean no surprise expenses—just bring your enthusiasm. The relatively short duration allows you to enjoy a full day without feeling overstretched, and the shallow reefs ensure safety and ease for beginners.

Compared to more expensive or intensive dive courses, it offers a low-commitment way to try diving and see what the underwater world has to offer. Plus, the opportunity to relax on Chong Beach after your underwater exploration makes it more than just a dive trip—it’s a well-rounded day of sea, sand, and adventure.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is perfect for first-time divers, families with kids over 10, and travelers who want a taste of the ocean without diving certification. It’s also suitable for those seeking a relaxing beach day combined with a gentle underwater adventure. If weather conditions permit, it provides a safe, fun, and affordable way to experience Cham Island’s marine life without the complexities of a full dive course.

However, if you’re looking for a more in-depth or certified diving experience, you might want to explore other options. This tour is best viewed as an introduction—an exciting, safe, and beautifully accessible window into the underwater world.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, children from age 10 can participate in the Try Dive, making it family-friendly.

Do I need any prior diving experience?
No, this is a beginner-friendly activity that doesn’t require previous experience or certification.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, comfortable shoes, a change of clothes, and a hat or sunscreen for sun protection. Luggage or large bags are not recommended.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel pick-up and drop-off, all diving equipment, a seafood lunch, and entrance fees for the marine park.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour can be canceled or rescheduled if weather conditions are poor, with full refunds or alternative dates offered.

How long is the boat ride?
The speedboat to Cham Island takes approximately 30 minutes each way.

What is the maximum depth for the dive?
The maximum depth for the discovery dive is about 6 meters, perfect for beginners.

Are drinks included during lunch?
No, drinks are not included, so you might want to bring some or purchase at the beach.

Final Thoughts

The Hoi An Cham Island Discover Scuba Dive is a solid choice for anyone wanting to dip their toes into the underwater world. It combines accessible, safe diving with scenic boat rides, delicious seafood, and plenty of free beach time. The tour’s inclusive nature, professional guides, and stunning marine scenery offer fantastic value for a day trip.

It’s especially well-suited for families, newbies to diving, or travelers seeking a relaxed yet adventurous experience. Just remember to keep an eye on the weather forecast, and you’ll find yourself with a memorable story to tell about your first underwater adventure.

Whether you’re looking to see vibrant coral reefs, enjoy a scenic boat ride, or simply relax on a beautiful beach, this tour provides a well-rounded, enjoyable day that captures the spirit of exploration and fun on Cham Island.

You can check availability for your dates here: