Snorkeling Cham Island: Snorkeling Tour by Speed Boat

Snorkeling Cham Island: Snorkeling Tour by Speed Boat

Are you craving a day on the water in Central Vietnam that combines adventure, natural beauty, and good food? This Snorkeling Cham Island tour offers a lively 7-8 hour experience, starting from Da Nang or Hoi An, where for $53 per person you’ll hop on a speedboat to one of Vietnam’s UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserves. You’ll explore the vibrant underwater world, enjoy a tasty traditional Vietnamese seafood lunch, and have plenty of time to relax on stunning beaches.

What we really like about this trip are two specific things: first, the speedboat ride itself—it’s fast and exhilarating—and second, the lunch. The seafood seems to be a highlight, with reviews praising it as “very good” and a perfect complement to a day in the sun. On the downside, some may find the snorkeling conditions a bit hit or miss, with reviews mentioning coral but fewer fish than expected, and occasional jellyfish sightings.

This tour suits travelers looking for a relaxed but engaging day out—whether you want to snorkel, soak up some sun, or simply unwind on a beautiful beach. It’s particularly good for those who enjoy a mix of activity and leisure but might not be ideal if you’re seeking intense underwater exploration or traveling with very young children or those with medical restrictions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Includes all fees: Marine Protected Area, island fees, and Bai Chong entrance.
• Good for beginners: Full snorkeling gear and a guide make it accessible.
• Time-efficient: 7-8 hours, with a well-organized itinerary.
• Scenic speedboat rides: Expect a lively start to your day.
• Relaxing beach time: Bai Chong Beach offers hammocks, sunbathing, and swimming.
• Varied experiences: Marine exploration, beach leisure, and local seafood.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Getting There and Starting the Day

The experience typically begins with hotel pickup in Da Nang or Hoi An, which is included in the price. Once you’re at Cua Dai Wharf, you’ll board a speedboat, a mode of transport that immediately sets an energetic tone and offers a breezy, exhilarating way to start your adventure. The boat ride to Hon Nhon Beach takes about 20 minutes, giving you a quick taste of the water and a chance to feel the sea breeze.

Arrival at Hon Nhon Beach and Snorkeling

Your first stop is Hon Nhon Beach, a part of Cham Island designated as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. Here, you’ll have ample time to swim and snorkel at your leisure. The waters are known for their colorful fish and coral, making it an appealing spot, especially for beginners or those who just want to relax in the waves.

One review notes, “You can see coral and some fish (not much but they r cute), as well as jellyfish!” This suggests that while the marine life is decent, it might not be as teeming as in more famous snorkeling spots. Still, the chance to see underwater sea life in such a protected area is a real plus. The experience of floating above coral reefs and spotting small fish is both calming and visually appealing.

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Lunch at Cham Jungle Restaurant

After snorkeling, you’ll head to a local restaurant, where a Vietnamese seafood lunch awaits. The reviews rave about the quality, with one describing it as “very good,” emphasizing the freshness and local flavor. The meal is a highlight for many, as it’s a chance to savor authentic seafood—think grilled fish, shrimp, and other local specialties—while sitting in a relaxed setting.

Beach Relaxation at Bai Chong

Post-lunch, the tour takes you to Bai Chong Beach. Here, you’ll find hammocks, sun loungers, and gentle waves perfect for a lazy afternoon. Reviewers mention that the beach is “awesome,” with a lovely spot to rest, sunbathe, or take a second swim. Some even note that the beach is great for “chillaxing,” making it ideal for travelers who want a break from the water activities.

Returning to Da Nang or Hoi An

The day wraps up with a return speedboat ride back to the wharf, followed by hotel drop-off. The entire experience is quite well-paced, with enough time at each stop to enjoy without feeling rushed.

What’s Included & What to Consider

Included in the Price

• English-speaking guide (or request other languages)
• Hotel pickup and drop-off in Da Nang and Hoi An
• Shared speedboat transfer
• Full snorkeling gear and mineral water
• Seafood lunch
• All island fees (Marine Protected Area, Bai Chong, Cham Island entrance)

Not Included

• Towel (so bringing one for drying off or lounging is smart)

Practical Tips

• The tour is not suitable for children under 5, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions like heart problems or high blood pressure.
• If you’re a non-swimmer, this might not be the best fit, although the gear, guides, and calm waters make it manageable for beginners.
• Bring a towel and perhaps some sunscreen; these aren’t included.
• The timing varies, so check availability for your preferred day.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

Travelers consistently mention the friendly guides, who are knowledgeable about the marine environment and the island’s highlights. One reviewer, Ami, noted, “We took the speedboat and started snorkeling. You can see coral and some fish (not much but they r cute), as well as jellyfish!” This paints a realistic picture: the marine life is charming but not overwhelming.

Another traveler, Jan Arild, praised the lunch, calling it “very good,” which correlates with the many reviews that highlight the meal as a memorable part of the trip. The beach time at Bai Chong is also a major plus, with travelers loving the opportunity to relax or nap in the hammocks after the water activities.

On the Downside

Some reviews mention big waves that can make the boat ride a bit bumpy, and snorkeling conditions might not always meet expectations in terms of fish variety. If you’re seeking more vibrant coral or abundant marine life, you might find this experience a tad underwhelming. Still, the overall atmosphere—friendly guides, beautiful scenery, and excellent food—makes up for it.

Who This Tour is Best For

This snorkeling trip is ideal for beginners, families, or travelers seeking a relaxed day on the water. If you love the idea of a quick, fun speedboat ride combined with some underwater exploration and then hours of beach lounging, this is a good pick. It’s perfect if you want a balance of activity and downtime, especially if good seafood and scenic beaches appeal to you.

However, if you’re after intense snorkeling or a highly wildlife-rich experience, you might want to look elsewhere. The tour is quite accessible and laid-back, making it a great introduction to Vietnam’s marine environment.

The Sum Up

This Cham Island snorkeling tour offers a well-rounded, affordable way to spend a day in Central Vietnam. You get the thrill of a speedboat ride, the chance to see some colorful marine life, a delicious seafood meal, and plenty of time to relax on pristine beaches. It’s a straightforward, enjoyable option for those who want to combine some water activities with cultural and natural sights.

While the marine life might not be as abundant as in more famous snorkel spots, the experience of being on the water, soaking up the sun, and enjoying authentic Vietnamese seafood makes it worth considering. It suits travelers who value comfort, simplicity, and a taste of local life without too many complications.

In short, if your idea of a perfect day includes snorkeling, beach time, and good food in a beautiful setting while traveling in Vietnam, this tour delivers on all fronts.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts about 7 to 8 hours, including pickup, travel, activities, and return.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from hotels in Da Nang and Hoi An, making it convenient and stress-free.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses. Towel isn’t included, but all snorkeling gear and water are.

Is snorkeling suitable for non-swimmers?
While full snorkeling gear is provided, the tour is not recommended for non-swimmers or those with medical restrictions like heart problems or high blood pressure.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is the seafood lunch like?
Reviews describe it as “very good,” with fresh local seafood served at a Cham Jungle Restaurant.

Are there any age restrictions?
The minimum age is 5 years old. It’s not recommended for pregnant women or anyone over 70.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour offers free cancellation if weather conditions make the experience unsafe or undesirable.

This tour is a solid choice for those seeking a relaxed, authentic, and scenic day in Vietnam, with a good mix of adventure, nature, and local flavor. Whether you’re looking to snorkel, lounge on the beach, or enjoy fresh seafood in a beautiful setting, it ticks many boxes without breaking the bank.

You can check availability for your dates here: