Phu Quoc: Rach Vem Starfish Kingdom & Cooking Experience

Travelers seeking a true taste of Vietnam’s lesser-known coastal charm will find this tour to Northern Phu Quoc a balanced mix of natural beauty, local culture, and delicious food. Based on reviews and detailed itineraries, it’s clear this day-trip offers a genuine glimpse into the island’s authentic side, far from the busy tourist hotspots.

What makes this experience stand out? We love the peaceful vibe of Rach Vem fishing village, the chance to walk along iconic wooden bridges over the sea, and swimming among vibrant starfish at Ham Rong Cape. Plus, the fresh seafood lunch on a floating restaurant delivers a memorable dining experience.

However, a consideration worth noting is that weather conditions can impact the day’s flow, especially since part of the trip relies on boat rides and outdoor activities. Still, this tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy laid-back natural scenery, local life, and a bit of adventure — perfect for those wanting a relaxed, authentic day outside the usual tourist trail.

Key Points

• Authentic local experience in Rach Vem fishing village
• Stunning photo opportunities on wooden bridges and at Ham Rong Cape
• Swimming with starfish in clear, shallow waters
• Fresh seafood lunch on a floating restaurant
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Suitable for those looking for a relaxed, nature-filled day with an emphasis on scenery and local culture

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Day in Northern Phu Quoc

This full-day tour offers a wonderful chance to explore the quieter, more traditional side of Phu Quoc. While many visitors flock to the beaches and resorts, this experience takes you into the heart of the island’s rural life and untouched nature. It’s a solid choice if you’re after something more genuine and less commercialized.

The tour begins comfortably with hotel pickup, typically around 8:00 AM, depending on your location on the island. The transportation involves a short van ride (about 30 minutes), setting a relaxed tone from the start. Once you arrive at Rach Vem, you get a taste of how the local fishermen go about their daily routines, giving you a genuine insight into their humble yet resilient lifestyle.

Rach Vem Fishing Village & Wooden Bridges

A key highlight here is the chance to explore Rach Vem’s traditional fishing community. You’ll see local fishermen at work and can take in views of the sea from the village’s iconic wooden bridges. These long structures stretch out over the water, offering fantastic photo ops and a sense of being part of the scenery. As one reviewer noted, “Check in at the wooden bridges was a perfect spot for memorable photos,” emphasizing how visually striking this spot is.

The atmosphere is unhurried, and guides are usually knowledgeable, explaining the local way of life. Some reviews mention the guides’ helpfulness and friendliness, which makes a difference in understanding the area’s significance beyond just a sightseeing stop.

Cruising to Ham Rong Cape & Starfish Sanctuary

Next, you’ll hop onto a boat and head along the coastline towards Ham Rong Cape — known as the “Kingdom of Starfish.” This part of the tour offers a relaxing boat ride with the chance to breathe in the sea air and enjoy panoramic views. The boat transfer takes about 15 minutes, making it a quick yet scenic journey.

Here, the real magic begins. You’ll have free time to swim in the crystal-clear waters, which are perfect for spotting and swimming among vibrant starfish. The shallow waters mean you don’t need to be a strong swimmer, and life jackets are provided for safety. Many reviewers, like Julie from the UK, highlight the “crystal clear water and the abundance of starfish” as the highlight — “so many starfish it was magical,” she says.

A professional flycam (drone) experience is included, allowing you to capture stunning aerial shots of the shoreline and starfish in their natural habitat, adding a fun and modern twist to the experience.

Seafood Lunch on a Floating Restaurant

After your aquatic adventures, you’ll return to Rach Vem for a delicious lunch at a floating restaurant, surrounded by peaceful ocean views and gentle breezes. The menu features fresh seafood, including sour fish soup, crispy shrimp, and conch salad, complemented by steamed rice and seasonal fruits. The included iced tea keeps you refreshed amid the heat.

Reviewers frequently praise the quality of the food, with one mentioning the delicious flavors and freshness—a highlight for those who enjoy authentic local cuisine. The relaxed setting on water adds to the overall charm, making it more than just a meal but an integral part of the experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Free Time & Return Journey

Post-lunch, you have some free time to relax, stroll around, or take additional photos. Then, a short van ride takes you back to your hotel, typically concluding around 4:30 PM. The entire day spans approximately 8 hours, balancing sightseeing, beach time, and cultural insights.

How It Fits Into Your Phu Quoc Trip

This tour is especially well-suited for adventurous travelers who want to see a different side of the island. If you’re craving natural beauty, local culture, and authentic seafood, it hits the mark. The small group sizes (generally around 10-12 people) make for a more intimate experience, and the inclusion of professional guides and photographers adds value.

It’s also flexible enough for families, with children over 1 meter in height able to join, and safety gear available for non-swimmers. However, it’s not ideal for pregnant women, babies under 1 year, or seniors over 95, mainly due to outdoor and boat activities.

Price and Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, this kind of full-day experience tends to offer good value, considering the included transportation, activities, meals, and professional photography. The fact that you get to explore local villages, pristine beaches, and enjoy a seafood feast for a single day makes it a compelling option for budget-conscious travelers seeking an immersive experience.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you love authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences with an emphasis on nature, local life, and delicious food, this trip is a great fit. It’s particularly suited for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting to see a different, less commercialized part of Phu Quoc.

The relaxed pace and outdoor focus make it perfect for those who don’t mind a bit of boat riding and outdoor exploration. While weather can influence parts of the day, the guides’ professionalism and the scenic beauty make this journey worthwhile.

For travelers craving stunning views, cultural insights, and memorable seafood, this tour blends all those elements into one well-rounded, authentic day out.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 1 meter in height are welcome, and life jackets are provided. Kids under 1 meter can join for free, but younger children should be considered based on outdoor activity comfort.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, sandals, a camera, sunscreen, water, and a towel. It’s also recommended to have a waterproof phone pouch and water shoes for swimming.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. After that, no refunds are possible.

What if the weather is bad?
In case of rough seas or heavy rain, the tour provider will notify you promptly and offer a free reschedule or full refund.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat transfer from Rach Vem to Ham Rong Cape takes about 15 minutes, making it a quick and scenic crossing.

Is the seafood lunch included?
Yes, a fresh seafood lunch on a floating restaurant is part of the package, featuring local dishes and seasonal fruits.

How many people are in a group?
Group sizes are generally small, around 10-12 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Do I need to speak Vietnamese?
No, the tour is guided in English and Vietnamese, and guides are helpful in explaining the sights and helping with photos.

In summary, this tour offers a genuine, scenic, and culturally enriching glimpse into northern Phu Quoc. Perfect for those seeking a relaxed day with stunning landscapes, authentic local life, and delicious seafood. Be prepared for some outdoor activity and variable weather but expect a memorable adventure that balances beautiful scenery with meaningful experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here: