Phu Quoc: 3 Islands Day Trip with Snorkeling and Lunch

Exploring Phu Quoc’s 3 Islands with Snorkeling and Lunch

If you’re after a day that combines adventure, relaxation, and a taste of local marine life, this 3 Islands Day Trip from Phu Quoc offers a balanced mix. For $42, we get to visit Xuong (or Buom) Island, Gam Ghi Island, and May Rut Trong Island—each offering something unique, from vibrant coral reefs to white sandy beaches. The tour, which lasts a full day, usually starts around 8:15 to 8:30 AM, with a convenient pick-up from central Duong Dong town, including the night market and Eden Resort area.

What we really appreciate are two things: the opportunity to snorkel at two different coral reefs—a chance to see colorful marine life—and the delicious lunch onboard. The meal’s menu, featuring steamed shrimp, squid, braised fish, and fresh fruit, is more than just a filler; it’s a highlight that relieves the day’s physical activity with well-prepared local dishes. Also, relaxing on May Rut Trong’s quiet, white sand beaches makes for a perfect chillout spot after swimming.

However, a potential consideration is weather dependency. If conditions aren’t ideal, some islands may be swapped out, which might affect the experience or scenery you expect. It’s also worth noting that the tour isn’t suitable for non-swimmers or those with back issues, so check your comfort level with water activities.

This tour suits those who love snorkeling, beach relaxation, and sampling local seafood in a short, organized day. It’s also good for travelers who prefer a guided experience rather than navigating solo, especially if you want a straightforward way to explore these islands without planning individual transport.

Key Points

• Snorkeling at Vibrant Coral Reefs: You get to swim among colorful marine life at two different islands, making it ideal for underwater enthusiasts.
• Visit Three Unique Islands: Each island—Xuong/Buom, Gam Ghi, and May Rut—offers distinct scenery, from coral reefs to tranquil beaches.
• All-Inclusive Lunch on Board: The seafood menu is hearty and flavorful, with options that can be tailored for vegetarians if requested in advance.
• Convenient Pickup & Drop-off: Centralized hotel pickup simplifies logistics, with a return by 5 PM.
• Weather Flexibility: Some island visits might change depending on weather, so the experience can vary day-to-day.
• Authentic Experience for Non-Experts: No prior snorkeling experience is needed, though non-swimmers should consider their comfort level.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the Phu Quoc 3 Islands Day Trip

The Journey Begins: Pickup and Transportation

The day starts with a prompt pickup around 8:15 AM from your hotel or the local office, making it easy to organize around your existing plans. We found that the transportation was smooth, with air-conditioned vehicles taking us from Duong Dong town to the harbor. The group size was manageable, and the process felt efficient – no long waits or confusion.

Once at the harbor, you board a tourist boat equipped with life jackets, snorkeling gear, and a relaxed vibe. The boat itself is comfortable enough for a full day at sea, with enough space to move around or sit back and enjoy the views.

The First Stop: Xuong (or Buom) Island

The first island on the itinerary is Xuong Island, also called Buom Island, depending on weather conditions. The highlight here is snorkeling at a coral reef. We loved the clarity of the water and the kaleidoscope of small fish darting around the coral formations. The guide pointed out some of the more colorful marine creatures, which made the experience feel like an underwater treasure hunt.

Lady C commented, “Loved the snorkeling and our guide was fab.” This sentiment is common—local guides tend to be enthusiastic and knowledgeable, which enhances the experience. The coral reefs are vibrant but not overcrowded, offering a genuine glimpse of marine biodiversity.

Second Stop: Gam Ghi Island

Next, the boat moves to Gam Ghi Island, another coral-rich site. The snorkeling here might surprise you with how lively and clear the waters are. It’s a perfect setting for both beginners and seasoned snorkelers. Notably, this stop often feels less crowded than busy tourist spots, offering a peaceful environment to float and observe the underwater world.

Some reviews mention a desire for more snorkeling time, which is worth considering if underwater exploration is your main goal. On the downside, the itinerary may feel a bit rushed, especially with only a few short stops, but the trade-off is a full day of varied scenery.

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The Lunch and Relaxation: May Rut Trong Island

After active snorkeling, we arrived at May Rut Trong Island, famed for its white sand lagoon. Here, the focus shifts to relaxation. The boat provides a delicious, hearty lunch—a mix of seafood, vegetables, rice, and fresh fruit. The menu is flexible enough to accommodate vegetarians if you request ahead of time, which is good to know.

The beach at May Rut is quieter, less commercialized than some other islands, ideal for lounging or a gentle swim. Many travelers enjoy this calm time, as one reviewer noted: “Wanted more snorkeling and a quieter beach to chill on.”

Return and Reflection

By 5 PM, it’s time to head back to the harbor, with the journey concluding with a comfortable ride back to your hotel or accommodation. The overall duration of about nine hours is well-spent, balancing activity with relaxation.

The Value and Experience

For the price of $42, you’re getting access to multiple snorkeling sites, comfortable transportation, a well-rounded itinerary, and a tasty onboard meal. While a few travelers have expressed a desire for more snorkeling time, the overall experience is a good value, especially considering the convenience and guided nature of the tour.

Common Criticisms and How to Manage Expectations

Some reviews, like Lady C’s, point out displeasure with extras like the pearl farm visit or photo sessions at beaches not included in the itinerary. It’s worth clarifying with your guide beforehand if you want to focus solely on snorkeling and beaches. Also, weather conditions can alter the islands visited, so the actual scenery might differ slightly from expectations.

The tour isn’t suitable for non-swimmers or those with back problems, mainly because of the water activities involved. You’ll need to be comfortable in the ocean and able to handle your own gear.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for sea lovers and those eager to snorkel in clear waters. If you enjoy beach time, seafood, and underwater viewing, you’ll find it fulfilling. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers looking for a straightforward day out without the hassle of organizing transport or gear.

However, if you’re more interested in cultural or land-based activities, or want to spend more time on one particular island, this might not satisfy those specific needs. Similarly, if you prefer quiet, less touristic beaches, you may find some stops a tad crowded or commercialized.

FAQ

Is snorkeling equipment included?
Yes, the tour provides masks, snorkels, and fins (though fins are unavailable in child sizes). You can comfortably explore the reefs with the gear provided.

How long do we spend snorkeling?
Typically, snorkeling stops are relatively short, allowing for a quick glimpse of the marine life. If underwater exploration is your priority, consider that the schedule may limit your time below the surface.

Can I request vegetarian meals?
Absolutely. The lunch menu can be customized with prior notice, accommodating vegetarian or other dietary preferences.

When does the tour start?
Most tours begin around 8:15 to 8:30 AM, with pickup from central Duong Dong. Be sure to check the available times when booking.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for children who are comfortable in the water and can handle snorkeling. Non-swimmers or very young children might find the water activities challenging.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and water. It’s advisable to pack a hat and sunglasses for sun protection during beach stops.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Some islands or activities may be substituted if weather conditions are unfavorable. The tour provider aims to maximize your experience, but a change of plans can occur.

Is this tour eco-friendly?
The focus on coral reefs and marine life suggests a need for responsible snorkeling practices. Travel light, avoid touching corals, and follow guides’ instructions to minimize environmental impact.

Final Thoughts

This 3 Islands Day Trip from Phu Quoc offers a well-priced, engaging mix of snorkeling, beach leisure, and local seafood. It’s a great choice for travelers keen to see the underwater world without the complications of planning each activity themselves. The tour’s highlights—crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and a relaxed island atmosphere—are balanced by practical considerations like weather dependency and limited snorkeling time.

If you love marine adventures, enjoy authentic beach scenery, and are comfortable with guided group tours, this experience will serve you well. For those who want more time underwater or a quieter setting, consider other options that allow longer stays at each spot.

Overall, Sunny Tourist’s offering provides a memorable slice of island life and a chance to connect with Vietnam’s beautiful waters—at a price that makes it accessible for most travelers. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure, a good sunhat, and a desire to enjoy some of the best snorkeling near Phu Quoc.

You can check availability for your dates here: