Phu Quoc: Snorkeling and Island Hopping By Speedboat with Lunch

Phu Quoc: Snorkeling and Island Hopping By Speedboat with Lunch — an in-depth look

Imagine zipping across the warm waters of Phu Quoc’s southern coast aboard a speedboat, stopping at stunning islands, snorkeling amid coral reefs, and enjoying a hearty Vietnamese lunch. For just $53.41 per person, this full-day experience offers a blend of adventure, relaxation, and authentic natural beauty. Led by knowledgeable guides like Huy or Jerry, this tour is a solid choice for those seeking a flexible and memorable day on the water.

What we love most about this tour is the balance of active and relaxing moments — snorkeling over vibrant reefs and then kicking back on pristine beaches. The flexible itinerary, which adapts based on weather and group preferences, means you’re not just following a rigid schedule but truly experiencing the best of what the islands have to offer. Plus, the included snorkeling gear and hotel transfers make this a hassle-free outing.

However, a word of caution: sun protection is crucial. Many reviews highlight the intense exposure to the sun, which can turn a fun day into a sunburn challenge if you’re not careful. This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy water activities and don’t mind a full day under the sun.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic island scenery, a relaxed pace, and good guides who care about your experience, this trip might be just right for you.

Key Points

• Comprehensive island visits: Includes May Rut Ngoai, Mong Tay, Gam Ghi, and other smaller islands.
• Snorkeling and beach time: Opportunities to see coral reefs, swim, relax, and take photos.
• Knowledgeable guides: Guides like Huy and Jerry receive praise for their enthusiasm and helpfulness.
• All-in-one package: Includes hotel transfers, snorkeling equipment, lunch, fresh fruits, and photos.
• Flexible schedule: The itinerary adjusts with weather for safety and optimal experience.
• Good value: At just over 50 USD, it offers a full day of activities, food, and transport.

What is this tour all about?

This full-day snorkeling and island-hopping experience takes you on a high-speed boat trip through the scenic An Thoi archipelago. Starting early around 8:00 am with hotel pickups, the tour spans roughly eight hours, ending around 5:00 pm with drops back at your hotel. Your guides, who speak English and Vietnamese, aim to keep things comfortable, flexible, and fun.

The trip’s core is exploring several islands, each offering its own unique charm. You’ll visit a coral park—and if you choose, walk under the sea (extra expense), and then hop between islands for swimming, photographing, and relaxing.

The itinerary in detail

Morning pickup and boat departure

Your day begins with a convenient hotel pickup in an air-conditioned car, heading straight to the port. Once aboard the speedboat, you’ll feel the wind in your hair as you head out on the water, with cold water and fresh fruit onboard to keep you refreshed.

May Rut Ngoai Island

This island is famous for its beach and coral reefs. Many visitors find this to be the highlight, especially if they enjoy snorkeling and photography. The reefs are home to a variety of fish, even if, as some reviews note, many corals are dead — a sad reality but still an interesting underwater landscape. For those who aren’t keen on taking pictures or snorkeling, guides can provide extra spots for snorkeling or simply relax on the beach.

Mong Tay / May Rut Trong Island

Here, the focus shifts to lunch and relaxation. The setting is ideal for unwinding, with calm waters and a scenic backdrop. The provided lunch typically features local dishes, offering a taste of Vietnam’s culinary delights. Afterward, you might choose to swim, shoot flycam footage, or just soak in the sun.

Gam Ghi Island

The final highlight is snorkeling around Gam Ghi Island, where you’ll play with fish and enjoy the underwater scenery. The reviews emphasize that guides are attentive, helping everyone make the most of their snorkeling experience.

Return trip

By late afternoon, the boat heads back to the port, with a scenic cruise giving you one last look at the island views. The schedule might shift slightly depending on weather conditions to ensure safety and enjoyment.

What’s included and what’s not?

Included are the essentials for a comfortable, fun day: hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, snorkeling equipment, photography and flycam services, cold water and fresh fruits, and a lunch featuring local fare. This means you don’t need to worry about extra costs for transportation or gear — unless you want to buy souvenirs or tips.

Not included are personal expenses, tips, and an extra surcharge of 100,000 VND on certain holidays like April 30 or May 1. If you plan your trip accordingly, you can avoid holiday surcharges and stick to the standard price.

The experience on the water

Traveling by speedboat is a highlight in itself — quick, exciting, and offering fantastic views. The group size is capped at 25, ensuring a more intimate experience, and the guides’ enthusiasm really shines through. Many reviews mention guides like Huy and Jerry by name, praising their helpfulness and local knowledge.

The boat ride also comes with snorkeling gear, which is well-maintained, allowing even beginners to see vibrant fish and interesting coral formations. Although some reefs show signs of damage, the effort to see marine life is worthwhile, especially when you’re patient.

The food and relaxation moments

The lunch provides a break from water activities and gives you a chance to indulge in Vietnamese cuisine. The beach stops at May Rut Ngoai and Mong Tay are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or capturing photos. Many reviewers appreciate the relaxed pace, which balances adventure with downtime.

The weather and safety considerations

Since weather can influence the schedule, it’s wise to prepare for sun exposure. Several reviews highlight the importance of sun protection, with some recommending UV-blocking clothing or high SPF sunscreen. The guides prioritize safety, and if weather conditions are poor, the schedule might shift or the trip could be canceled with full refund options.

Is this tour right for you?

This experience is ideal if you’re looking for a full day of island exploration and snorkeling without the hassle of planning each detail. It suits adventurers, nature lovers, and photo enthusiasts alike. The guides’ attentiveness and the flexible itinerary ensure that even if weather is less than perfect or coral health is waning, you’ll still leave with memorable moments.

Final thoughts

For travelers seeking an authentic, fun-filled day on the water, this tour delivers. It combines the thrill of speedboat rides with the serene beauty of Phu Quoc’s islands. The inclusion of lunch, snorkeling gear, and hotel transfers at this price point makes it a compelling choice, especially for those new to island-hopping or traveling with family.

If you enjoy guided experiences with knowledgeable hosts, and don’t mind a full day outdoors, this trip offers excellent value. The positive reviews about guides like Huy and Jerry reflect the level of care and enthusiasm you can expect, making your day in Phu Quoc both enjoyable and hassle-free.

FAQ

How early do I need to book this tour?
Most travelers book about 20 days in advance, which is wise given the popularity and limited spots.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring plenty of sun protection — hats, UV clothing, sunscreen — and your camera or phone for photos. Light swimwear and towels are also good ideas for beach stops.

Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided, and guides are attentive. Even if you’re new, you’ll likely enjoy the fish and coral.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour may be rescheduled or canceled for safety. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if the weather causes cancellation.

Are there any extra costs I should know about?
Extra expenses include personal items, tips, and an optional fee for walking under the sea (not included). Holiday surcharges apply on specific dates.

What makes this tour stand out from others?
Its flexibility, friendly guides, and well-balanced schedule make it a favorite among travelers. Many reviewers highlight the stunning views and personalized service.

In essence, this speedboat tour in Phu Quoc is a well-rounded, engaging way to see some of the most beautiful islands and reefs while enjoying the comfort and guidance of experienced hosts. It’s perfect for those eager to explore the marine and terrestrial beauty of this Vietnamese paradise, all while keeping things straightforward and fun.