Cham Islands Snorkeling Tour by SpeedBoat from Da Nang

If you’re in Da Nang or nearby Hoi An and craving a quick maritime break, the Cham Islands Snorkeling Tour by Speedboat offers a lively, accessible way to enjoy Vietnam’s stunning marine scenery. For $53 per person, you get about seven hours of sun, sand, and underwater wonders—more than enough time to glimpse vibrant coral reefs, spot tropical fish, and relax on pristine beaches. Our experience was centered around a swift speedboat ride, a guided exploration of Cu Lao Cham Marine Park, and a delicious seafood lunch on Bai Chong Beach.

Two things stand out right away: the fast speedboat transfer saves precious time and gets you on the water quickly, and the included snorkeling gear and beach towels make packing light and stress-free. We particularly appreciated the calm, scenic boat ride and the well-organized nature of the trip, which offers a decent balance of adventure and relaxation. However, one area to consider is the variability in snorkeling conditions—some travelers have found the visibility less than ideal or crowded spots.

This tour suits travelers who value authentic marine environments over luxury, those eager to explore Vietnam’s marine biosphere, and families with older children (minimum age 5). If you’re after a straightforward, well-priced day out with good guides and a chance to witness the underwater world, this tour fits the bill.

Key Points

• Fast Speedboat Transfers: Get directly to the islands swiftly, maximizing your time in the water.
• Snorkeling Included: Gear is provided, making it easy to enjoy marine life immediately.
• Marine Park Access: Visit a UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve, home to hundreds of tropical fish species.
• Relaxing Beaches and Lunch: Bai Chong Beach offers a peaceful setting, complemented by a fresh seafood meal.
• Guided Experience: English-speaking guides help you navigate and learn about the marine environment.
• Flexible & Family-Friendly: Suitable for travelers aged 5 and up, with optional hotel pickup.

Starting Out: Convenience and Comfort

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup (if you opt for it), which takes you to Cua Dai Wharf for the boat ride. The traditional Vietnamese boat, with its 48 seats, offers a relaxed start, giving you a chance to enjoy the scenic coastline during the roughly one-hour cruise. We found this part charming—an authentic experience that lets you appreciate local life on the water.

The boat’s deck provides ample space for relaxing, taking in views, and feeling that gentle sea breeze. The slow pace on deck, contrasted with the quick arrival at the islands, adds to the laid-back vibe of the trip. As you cruise, guides often share insights about the area—something we appreciated, though some reviews mention variability depending on the guide.

Arriving at Cu Lao Cham Marine Park

The main highlight is the chance to snorkel among coral reefs teeming with tropical fish. The park has earned UNESCO recognition for its ecological value, and it’s clear why—blue waters, colorful reefs, and abundant marine life make for a worthwhile underwater experience.

The snorkeling spot is shared with other travelers, which could be a pro or con depending on your patience for crowds. One traveler mentioned that “the snorkeling itself was disappointing” due to poor visibility and overcrowding, while others felt it was a delightful tip to see so many fish and corals. The gear provided is simple but functional, and towels are included—helping you pack light.

Bai Chong Beach: Relaxation and Lunch

After snorkeling, the tour takes you to Bai Chong Beach. Here, you can unwind in hammocks, paddle around, or enjoy the serene shoreline. The lunch, featuring freshly prepared seafood, is praised for its flavor and simplicity. One reviewer described it as “tasteful food, quiet (no music or traffic), nice beach,” which adds to the overall peaceful vibe.

During the afternoon, some guests choose to swim or just lounge, making it an ideal spot to rest after the morning’s activity. The tour wraps up around 3 pm, giving you plenty of time to reflect on your marine adventure or plan the rest of your day.

Overall Experience: Pros and Cons

What we loved:
– The speedboat transfer is fast and fun, avoiding long waits and making the most of the day.
– The marine environment is genuinely impressive, especially for those interested in snorkeling and marine biology. The UNESCO designation underscores its ecological significance.
– The seafood lunch is a highlight—simple, fresh, and satisfying.
– The guide’s local knowledge enhances the experience, making the island feel more personal and authentic.

Considerations:
– Some reviews highlight variable snorkeling conditions, with less-than-ideal coral or fish sightings. Visibility can depend on weather and time of year.
– As the spots are shared, crowds may sometimes detract from a sense of exclusivity.
– The tour does not include drinks beyond bottled water, so bring extra if needed.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip is perfect for families with children over 5, travelers seeking a cost-effective marine day, or those wanting to explore Vietnam’s marine biosphere without fuss. It’s also ideal if you prefer organized tours with guide support and don’t mind sharing the experience with other travelers.

For just over fifty dollars, you receive a well-organized, scenic day immersed in nature’s beauty. The speedboat ride and lunch are notable highlights, especially if you’re after a relaxed, hassle-free excursion. While snorkeling conditions can vary, the chance to see vibrant marine life and enjoy a peaceful beach makes this a worthwhile outing.

If you’re looking for a lively underwater adventure, this tour offers a good balance of fun and comfort, especially for first-timers or those in need of a quick escape from the crowded streets of Da Nang or Hoi An. It’s not a luxury experience, but it’s genuine, authentic, and offers real value for those wanting to connect with Vietnam’s marine environment.

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are available as an option, but the core transfer is via shared speedboat from Cua Dai Wharf.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat from Cua Dai Wharf to the islands takes about one hour, providing a scenic, relaxed start to the day.

What is included in the tour?
Snorkeling gear, a seafood lunch, bottled water, marine protected area fees, and a guided tour are included. Towels are also provided.

Can children participate?
Yes, children aged 5 and above are welcome. The tour is family-friendly, but very young children under 1 are not recommended.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How crowded does it get?
The spots are shared with other tour groups, so expect some crowds at snorkel sites. Some reviews mention overcrowding, but others found it manageable.

What should I bring?
Besides the provided gear and towel, bring sunscreen, extra water if desired, and perhaps a waterproof camera to capture underwater moments.

To sum it up, the Cham Islands Snorkeling Tour from Da Nang offers a practical, engaging day in Vietnam’s protected marine areas. It’s valuable for travelers seeking genuine scenery, marine life, and a taste of local seafood without over-complication. For those wanting a straightforward, enjoyable day on the water, this tour hits the right notes, especially if you’re flexible about snorkeling conditions and looking for an authentic coastal experience.