Cham Island Snorkeling Private Tour (Only Snorkeling & Beach)

A Closer Look at the Cham Island Snorkeling Private Tour

If you’re visiting Hoi An and craving a day away from crowded temples and markets, this private snorkeling tour to Cham Island offers a refreshing escape. For around $265 per person, you’ll spend about six hours exploring the clear waters and soft sands of this lesser-known island. Led by friendly guides, the trip features speedboat rides, two vibrant snorkeling spots, and a delicious seafood BBQ on the beach.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it emphasizes privacy and personalization. Unlike large group excursions, your small group gets extra time at each snorkeling location and flexibility to relax without feeling rushed. Plus, the focus solely on snorkeling and beach lounging means no wasting time on unnecessary stops like shopping or temples.

One potential drawback is that this is a more streamlined experience—if you’re looking for cultural sights or a mix of activities, this might feel a bit too simple. But if your priority is crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and a tranquil beach day, this tour hits the mark.

This experience suits travelers who want a peaceful, authentic beach and snorkeling adventure, especially those who prefer private or semi-private trips over crowded group tours. It’s perfect for snorkelers, sunbathers, and anyone looking to enjoy marine life without the hustle.

Key Points

• Focus on Snorkeling and Beach: Designed solely for underwater exploration and relaxation, avoiding tourist traps.
• Private Experience: Small group, personalized service, and exclusive access to snorkeling spots.
• Beautiful Coral Reefs: Visit two different islands, Dai and Tai, each offering soft and hard coral, plus colorful fish.
• Delicious BBQ Lunch: Enjoy fresh seafood, fruits, and drinks right on the beach—perfect for refueling after snorkeling.
• Comfortable Transport: Speedboats and private transfers ensure quick, exciting rides with minimal hassle.
• Flexible Cancellation: Full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance, making this a low-risk choice.

An In-Depth Review of the Cham Island Snorkeling Private Tour

Setting the Scene: What’s Included and How It Works

Starting bright and early at 8:00 am, your day kicks off with hotel pickup in Hoi An or Da Nang, which means no fuss about finding your way. Your private driver takes you to Cua Dai quay, where you’ll register for your speedboat transfer—a fun, adrenaline-pumping start to your island adventure. The admission fees for the snorkel spots are included, so there’s no extra surprise cost.

The actual journey to Cham Island is quick—about 25 minutes on a speedboat—and you’ll get a good view of the coastline along the way. The boat is shared with others, but the experience feels intimate, and the ride is swift enough to maximize your time on the island.

Exploring Cham Island: The Snorkeling Stops

The first snorkeling stop is at Dai Island, famous for its soft coral reefs and vibrant fish. Expect to see a kaleidoscope of colors as you glide above the reefs, with clear waters offering excellent visibility. Guides ensure you have your gear—mask, snorkel, and life jacket—and are there for safety tips and assistance.

After about an hour here, the boat moves on to Tai Island, which is notable for hard coral formations and an abundance of colorful marine life. Here, you’ll also have the unique opportunity to join a fish feeding session, which many reviews mention as a highlight. We loved the way the guides allowed us to get close enough for incredible underwater photos and safe enough to enjoy the spectacle.

Lunch and Relaxation: A Seafood Feast on the Beach

Around 1:00 pm, everyone gathers on Ong or Chong Beach for a barbecue lunch featuring freshly grilled seafood, fruits, and refreshing drinks. The meal is simple but satisfying, and many reviewers say the delicious food and relaxed setting make the whole experience feel authentic and enjoyable.

Following lunch, there’s ample time to sunbathe, swim, or just soak up the peaceful beach atmosphere. It’s a perfect time to reflect on the underwater sights or simply enjoy the warm sun.

Returning and Reflection

By around 2:30 pm, the group departs for the return trip, with a quick speedboat ride back to Cua Dai. From there, your private vehicle is ready to take you back to your hotel, wrapping up a day of adventure, relaxation, and stunning scenery.

Authentic Experience, No Crowds, Great Value

One of the biggest kudos from travelers is how this tour avoids the usual tourist crowds. The focus on snorkeling and beach time, combined with the private aspect, means you get a more relaxed and authentic experience. As one reviewer noted, “We were first by 20-30 min at the snorkeling spot,” which made a difference in seeing the vibrant reefs without throngs of other travelers.

How It Compares to Other Tours

Compared to larger group excursions, this private tour offers more flexibility, more time in the water, and less rushed moments. The price might seem steep at $265, but considering private transportation, guided snorkeling, and a seafood lunch, it offers solid value for travelers wanting an exclusive, hassle-free day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience best suits snorkelers and beach enthusiasts who prefer a calm, personalized outing over large, crowded tours. It’s ideal if you’re after high-quality marine sights and a relaxing day on the sand, with the bonus of skip-the-crowd benefits that many reviews rave about.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off with private transportation, making the start and end of your day smooth.

How long is the snorkeling?
You’ll spend about 2 hours snorkeling across two different spots—Dai Island and Tai Island—each offering unique coral and fish.

What is the main focus of this tour?
The entire day revolves around snorkeling and beach relaxation, with no visits to temples, markets, or cultural sites.

Are the lunch and drinks included?
Yes, a seafood BBQ lunch, fruits, and drinks are all included, providing a tasty break after hours in the water.

How many people are on this tour?
It’s a private tour, so only your group participates, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour is weather-dependent, and if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If your idea of a perfect day involves snorkeling in vibrant reefs, lounging on quiet beaches, and enjoying a private, hassle-free experience, this tour ticks those boxes admirably. The focus on authentic marine encounters and delicious seafood makes it stand out from more commercialized options.

Travelers who appreciate personalized service, less crowded spots, and the chance to truly relax will find this tour a worthwhile investment. It’s especially suited for those who want to maximize snorkeling time and avoid the tourist-heavy areas, making for a more genuine and peaceful island escapade.

On the flip side, if you’re after a cultural or historical experience, or prefer a full-day tour with various activities, this might not be the best fit. But for water lovers and sun seekers, it’s a solid choice that promises a memorable day on Cham Island.

Final Verdict

The Cham Island Snorkeling Private Tour offers high-quality marine life encounters in a relaxed setting, with the added bonus of privacy and excellent food. It’s perfect for travelers seeking authenticity, comfort, and a focus on underwater beauty. While it may not suit those looking for a cultural sightseeing day, it excels as a peaceful, immersive ocean experience that leaves you with vivid memories of Vietnam’s underwater treasures.