Phu Quoc: Snorkeling & Island Discovery Full-Day Tour

Exploring Phu Quoc’s Islands: A Practical Review of the Snorkeling & Island Discovery Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day spent swimming in crystal-clear waters, lounging on pristine beaches, and sampling fresh seafood in Vietnam’s famous Phu Quoc island, this snorkeling and island-hopping tour might be just what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed itineraries reveal a balance of adventure, relaxation, and authentic local flavor.

What makes this experience appealing? First, the chance to snorkel among vibrant coral reefs and see marine life firsthand suggests an unforgettable underwater adventure. Second, the visits to several stunning islands promise varied scenery and activities, including beach lounging and exploring hidden lagoons. Lastly, the included seafood lunch on May Rut Trong Island offers a genuine taste of local cuisine in a relaxed setting.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour’s group size and schedule may not suit everyone—especially those seeking a very private experience or with mobility challenges. Still, it’s well-suited for travelers wanting to cover multiple islands comfortably within a single day, and who don’t mind a bit of boat time. This tour suits active travelers, families, or anyone eager to see Phu Quoc’s best islands with a knowledgeable guide.

Key Points

• Multiple options available to customize your island discovery experience
• Vibrant coral reefs and marine life for snorkelers of all levels
• Fresh seafood lunch served on a picturesque island setting
• Group size and timing may vary, impacting the overall experience
• Guide expertise and organization seem to be well-received by most travelers
• Not suitable for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness

You can check availability for your dates here:

How the Tour Works: A Complete Breakdown

This full-day adventure spans about six hours, with three main departure options, each catering to different preferences in timing and itinerary. The core idea remains the same: hop between islands, snorkel in lively reefs, and enjoy a local meal. Here, we’ll go through each option to help you decide which suits you best.

Pick-up and Departure

All options include hotel pickup in the center of Duong Dong town, with a small extra fee if you’re staying outside this area. The first step involves boarding a boat—either a standard or speed boat—at harbor. The journey is a significant part of the experience, giving you a chance to see the coastline from the water and settle into island-hopping mode.

Option 1: The Classic Day

Departing around 9:30 am, this option is slightly more relaxed. After a scenic drive, you’ll cruise to a fishing spot for about 30 to 60 minutes—an authentic experience if you enjoy seeing local fishing practices or even trying your hand at it (though not guaranteed). Then, the boat moves to two popular snorkeling islands: Xuong Island (also called Gam Ghi Island) and May Rut Trong Island.

What you’ll do: Snorkel among coral reefs, relax on white sandy beaches, and enjoy a seafood lunch on board. Reviewers mention that the lunch is plentiful and tastes authentic, with some noting it’s suitable even for those who aren’t huge fans of Vietnamese cuisine.

Return: Around 4:30 pm, you’ll head back to Duong Dong, feeling satisfied after a full day of activities.

Option 2: The South Island Focus

Starting earlier, around 8:15–8:30 am, this version emphasizes visiting three islands in the south, with the added thrill of an optional sea walking activity—a self-funded experience that some travelers found highlights their trip, though not everyone chose it.

What you’ll do: The stops include Xuong Island and Gam Ghi Island for snorkeling and beach time, plus May Rut Trong Island for lunch and exploration. The latter offers a white sand lagoon and a chance to relax away from crowded spots.

Highlights: Reviewers appreciate the friendly crew and the opportunity to take drone photos at no extra cost. The pace allows ample time for snorkeling, relaxing, and enjoying the scenery.

Return: Around 4:00 pm, you’ll head back, with plenty of memories and photos in tow.

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Option 3: The Best of the South

This version combines elements of the previous options, with departure around 8:15–8:30 am from An Thoi harbor. It highlights exploring three main islands—Xuong, Buom (also called Bird Island), and Gam Ghi—famous for their reefs and underwater beauty.

Extra: It features sea walking (self-funded), providing an immersive experience at sea. On the last stop, May Rut Trong Island, you’ll enjoy a well-deserved seafood lunch in a laid-back setting, with plenty of space to relax and soak up the sun.

Return: By 4 pm, you’ll be back at your hotel, ready to recount your underwater adventures.

What You Can Expect During the Day

Snorkeling and Marine Life

Most reviews emphasize the quality of snorkeling, with reefs teeming with fish and colorful corals. Xuong Island is particularly praised for its coral formations, and Buom Island offers an “undiscovered” reef, giving you a sense of exploring something special. Snorkelers—whether novices or experienced—will likely enjoy the variety of marine habitats.

Beach Relaxation on Islands

The beaches are noted for their fine white sand and clear waters. Many travelers appreciate how peaceful and untouched some spots feel, offering an ideal escape from crowded beaches.

Seafood Lunch

The on-board or on-island lunch is a highlight for many. The reviews mention delicious, plentiful seafood, suitable for diverse tastes—even for those who might not be fond of Vietnamese dishes. It’s a casual, laid-back meal that perfectly complements a day of adventure.

Additional Activities

Some tours offer optional sea walking (self-funded), which can be an exciting way to stay above water and see marine life without needing to swim. Drone photography is also available on some trips, creating opportunities for stunning aerial shots.

Group Size, Timing, and Comfort

Most tours are run as group experiences, with the exact size varying—some reviews mention around 40 people, while others note smaller groups. The boat might feel cramped during peak times, so packing light and arriving early can improve comfort.

Timing is crucial. Early departures mean more time on the water and less rush, but some travelers noted the group size and schedule can impact the overall experience. The duration of six hours allows for a relaxed pace but expect some boat travel, which might be tiring for sensitive travelers.

Guides and Service

Reviewers consistently mention knowledgeable guides who are attentive and friendly, making the experience more enriching. They also appreciate the organization, punctuality, and care taken during the trip.

Practical Considerations

• Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen, especially since much of the day involves outdoor activities.
• Non-swimmers should be cautious, as snorkeling can be challenging without prior experience.
• Seasickness is worth considering if you are prone—an earlier departure might be better for calmer seas.
• The tour includes hotel pickup in Duong Dong, with extra fees for out-of-town hotels, so confirm your pickup point in advance.

Final Thoughts

This Phu Quoc snorkeling and island discovery tour offers a balanced mix of marine adventure, beach relaxation, and local cuisine. Its strength lies in the well-organized itinerary, practical group sizes, and friendly guides who keep the day engaging. The variety of stops ensures you experience both vibrant reefs and tranquil lagoons, making it ideal for those who want a true taste of the island’s natural beauty.

While some might find the boat ride a bit long or prefer more private experiences, most travelers leave feeling they’ve gained a genuine connection to Phu Quoc’s islands. The included seafood lunch and opportunities for drone photography and sea walking add extra layers of enjoyment.

In essence, this tour is best suited for active travelers, families, or groups who enjoy snorkeling, exploring multiple spots, and savoring good seafood—all packed into a well-paced day.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup in Duong Dong, boat transportation, snorkeling stops, and a seafood lunch on the island. Guides speak English and Vietnamese.

Are there different options to choose from?
Yes, there are three departure options, each with slightly different itineraries focusing on different islands and activities, including optional sea walking.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, with departure times starting around 8:15 or 9:30 am.

Can I snorkel if I’ve never done it before?
Most reefs are suitable for beginners, but comfort in water and basic swimming ability are recommended. Non-swimmers should exercise caution.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable shoes, a camera, and comfortable clothes for the day.

Is seasickness a concern?
If you are prone to seasickness, consider taking precautions—early morning trips tend to be calmer.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a seafood lunch is served on May Rut Trong Island, with plenty of tasty options.

How many people are in each group?
Group size can vary; some reviews mention up to 40 travelers, so expect a lively group but with enough space to enjoy the day.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, but non-swimmers and those sensitive to seasickness may find it more challenging. Check with the provider if unsure.

Can I customize the experience?
You can choose among the available options, but private or tailored tours are not mentioned. Confirm special needs with the provider beforehand.

To sum it up, this tour offers an excellent combination of marine exploration and island relaxation, making it a fantastic way to see some of Phu Quoc’s most beautiful spots in a single day. It’s especially good for travelers eager to snorkel and enjoy fresh seafood, with friendly guides ensuring a smooth experience. If you’re looking for a fun, active day on the water with authentic touches, this tour is definitely worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: