PHU QUOC TRIP 2: 2 ISLANDS BY BOAT

Exploring the scenic waters of Phu Quoc is a popular way to escape the busy mainland and enjoy Vietnam’s natural beauty. This particular 2-island boat trip from JOHNS TOURS promises a day of snorkeling, relaxing beaches, and a chance to see some vibrant marine life—an accessible way to experience the island’s coastal charm without breaking the bank.

What makes this tour stand out? First, at just $22 per person, it offers a surprisingly good value, especially considering it includes snorkeling gear, a delicious lunch, and transportation. Second, the friendly guides and well-organized itinerary help ensure a smooth day. Lastly, the opportunity to relax on a beach bar and swim in lagoons makes it a flexible and laid-back choice for those who want to combine adventure with downtime.

However, there’s a possible catch. The description mentions potential changes to islands due to weather conditions, which might alter your planned stops. This flexibility is common with boat tours in tropical areas, but it’s worth noting if you’re particular about specific islands or activities.

This experience is well-suited for families, solo travelers, or couples looking for an affordable, day-long marine adventure that balances snorkeling and leisure. If you’re the type who enjoys exploring at a relaxed pace and values local guides and small group intimacy, this tour could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Affordable price point at $22 per person offers good value for a complete day out.
• Includes snorkeling equipment, lunch, and transport, making it a convenient all-in-one package.
• Flexible itinerary that can change based on weather, emphasizing safety and adaptability.
• Friendly, English-speaking guides help enrich the experience with local insights.
• Relaxed pace with time for swimming, beach lounging, and enjoying the scenery.
• Mixed reviews highlight both the positive experiences and some disappointment over unfulfilled promises.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins around 9:30 AM, with pickup from JOHNS TOURS office or your hotel’s lobby in Duong Dong town. The pickup process is straightforward and efficient, and the tour company offers easy booking with a pay-later option. If you’re staying outside the designated pickup areas, be prepared for an extra fee, which is common for such excursions.

The transportation is by car and boat, providing a comfortable and hassle-free start. The group size tends to be small and intimate, fostering a friendly atmosphere where guides can offer personalized attention.

The First Stop: Snorkeling at Xuong Island (or Gam Ghi Island)

Once on board, the first highlight is snorkeling at one or two islands. The tour description mentions Xuong Island (also called Dam Ngang Island) or Gam Ghi Island as the snorkeling spots. Expect to see colorful fish and coral—the primary draw for underwater enthusiasts.

One reviewer noted that “the guide was very friendly,” and others appreciated the good quality snorkeling gear, although fins are not available in child sizes, so plan accordingly if you’re bringing kids. The water clarity and marine life tend to satisfy those who love vibrant underwater scenes, and the experience is accessible even for beginners.

Lunch on the Boat

After snorkeling, a delicious lunch is served on the boat. The menu is typically a local Vietnamese meal, designed for comfort and flavor, allowing you to refuel before heading to the next activity. Several reviews praise the value for money, mentioning that the lunch was “great” and satisfying, especially after a morning of swimming.

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Swimming and Relaxing at May Rut Trong Island

Post-lunch, the tour moves to May Rut Trong Island, a tranquil spot ideal for swimming, relaxing, or just soaking up the sun. The lagoon’s calm waters are perfect for a leisurely dip, and the island offers activities like lounging at a beach bar. One traveler described it as “a beautiful island,” perfect for unwinding.

Some reviews mention that weather can influence the exact islands visited, with guides adjusting plans accordingly. This flexibility can be a plus or a downside, depending on your expectations. If a specific island or activity is a priority, check with the tour operator beforehand.

Return and Drop-off

The boat departs around 4:30 PM, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the day. The return journey provides scenic views and a chance to reflect on a day spent exploring Vietnam’s coastal wonders. The journey back concludes with drop-off at your hotel or designated location.

What’s Included and What to Bring

Included

• Round-trip car and boat transportation
• English-speaking guide to help navigate and explain
• Snorkeling gear, life jackets, and fishing equipment
• A bottle of water to keep you hydrated
• A delicious lunch

Not Included

• Personal expenses like souvenirs or additional snacks
• Towels and sunscreen—bring your own to stay comfortable
• An extra 10% surcharge applies during special holidays like New Year or Lunar New Year, payable directly on-site

Tips for a Better Experience

• Pack swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen
• Be prepared for potential schedule changes due to weather conditions, which is common in tropical climates
• Arrive early for pickup to ensure a smooth start

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Many reviewers highlight the friendly guides and the value-packed experience. One quoted, “I like everything—the guard, transportation, value for money, lunch”—indicating overall satisfaction with the organization and affordability. Another noted, “everything was good—as described,” reaffirming the tour’s reliability.

However, some concerns include promised transfer options not being honored (additional fees may apply), and the snorkeling locations not always matching the description. One traveler remarked, “it’s pretty good, but the description says you could snorkel in two places, even though that wasn’t the case,” which suggests the itinerary can be flexible or change unexpectedly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour appeals most to budget-conscious travelers eager for a full day of marine activities without a hefty price tag. It’s suitable for families with children, given the relaxed pace and straightforward snorkeling. It works well for solo explorers or couples wanting a casual, scenic trip with easy logistics.

If your priority is exploring specific islands or underwater spots, or you prefer a more structured or luxurious experience, you might want to consider other options. But for those seeking authentic, fun, and laid-back island adventures, this trip offers a practical and enjoyable way to see some of Phu Quoc’s best spots.

The Sum Up

This boat trip from JOHNS TOURS provides an affordable and accessible way to experience some of Phu Quoc’s most picturesque islands. With snorkeling, swimming, and relaxation, it caters to travelers looking for a balanced mix of adventure and downtime. The friendly guides, combined with good value for money, make it a solid choice for those on a budget.

While the itinerary can vary based on weather, the flexible nature of this tour ensures safety and comfort are prioritized. The included lunch and snorkeling gear add to the convenience, making it a fuss-free option for a day at sea.

This tour is ideal if you want a laid-back, reasonably priced day exploring Vietnam’s vibrant marine life and tranquil islands. It’s especially well-suited for families, solo travelers, or couples who value authentic local experiences and friendly service over luxury.

FAQ

What time does the tour start and end?
It begins around 9:30 AM with pickups, and returns to your hotel by approximately 4:30 PM.

Does the tour include transportation to and from my hotel?
Yes, it includes round-trip car transportation from designated pickup points. Extra fees may apply for locations outside the standard pickup areas.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, masks, snorkels, and fins are included, though fins are not available in child sizes.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and possibly a hat for sun protection.

Can I change the islands visited?
Yes, the itinerary may change due to weather conditions; guides will select alternative islands as needed.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most likely yes, but check fin availability and ensure your children can swim comfortably.

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $22 per person, offering good value given the included activities and meals.

Are there additional costs?
During holidays like New Year or Lunar New Year, a 10% extra charge applies, payable on-site.

What do reviews say about the experience?
Reviewers praise the friendly guides, good value, and beautiful scenery, though some noted minor discrepancies on snorkeling locations.

How flexible is the booking process?
You can reserve now and pay later, with a full refund available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

This boat tour in Phu Quoc offers an affordable, relaxed way to enjoy the island’s coastal beauty, perfect for those looking to combine marine adventure with a bit of leisure.

You can check availability for your dates here: