Cham Islands Snorkeling Tour by Speedboat : Hoi An/Da Nang

Experience the Cham Islands Snorkeling Tour by Speedboat: An Honest Look at the Waters of Vietnam

If you’re planning a day trip to escape the busy streets of Da Nang or Hoi An, the Cham Islands Snorkeling Tour by Speedboat offers a chance to enjoy Vietnam’s stunning coastlines and vibrant marine environment. Priced at around $33 per person and lasting about 6.5 to 7.5 hours, this tour takes you from your hotel to the waters around Cham Island, with snorkeling, sightseeing, and a seafood feast on the agenda.

What we like most about this experience is the opportunity to relax while cruising on a speedboat through scenic landscapes and the chance to see colorful fish in their natural habitat. The traditional Vietnamese seafood lunch is another highlight, offering a taste of local cuisine in a beautiful setting.

One potential concern is the crowd density during peak season, which can sometimes lead to chaos, especially in snorkeling areas. It’s also worth noting that the tour’s duration can vary, and some reviews mention that weather issues might shorten the activities. This tour suits those who are eager for a mix of adventure, cultural sights, and authentic seafood, especially if you’re comfortable with group tours and slightly busy environments.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $33, it offers solid value with snorkeling, sightseeing, and a seafood lunch included.
• Beautiful Marine Environment: Snorkeling at Cham Island reveals colorful fish and clear waters.
• Cultural Stops: Visit the Hai Tang pagoda and traditional fishing village to get a glimpse of local life.
• Scenic Transportation: The speedboat ride provides lovely views and a refreshing breeze.
• Flexible Schedule: Duration varies, but most trips last around 6.5 to 7.5 hours.
• Limited for Certain Travelers: Not suitable for pregnant women, mobility-impaired, or those with vertigo.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Cham Islands Snorkeling Tour

This tour begins bright and early, with hotel pickups in Hoi An or Da Nang between 7:00 and 8:30 am. The journey is divided into a few key segments: a van transfer, a speedboat cruise, and the exploration of Cham Island itself. We found that the transportation is smooth and well-organized, with pick-ups from central locations making it easy to start the day.

The Speedboat Experience

The highlight of the trip begins once you’re on the speedboat, which takes you across the water to Cham Island. The ride lasts roughly 20 minutes, during which you’ll enjoy cool breezes and scenic views of the coastline. This part of the trip is often praised for its beautiful landscape and the thrill of the open sea. As Kelly noted, “Relaxing in fresh cool wind, you will enjoy the beautiful landscape on a speed,” which captures the essence perfectly.

Exploring Cham Island: Key Stops and Activities

Once on the island, your itinerary includes visits to several points of interest:

• Lang Beach: A serene spot where you can relax and take in the stunning scenery.
• Marine Protected Area: Perfect for snorkelers eager to see vibrant fish and coral reefs. However, some reviews note that snorkeling can get crowded, with up to 50 people in a small area, which might impact your experience if you’re seeking solitude.
• Boat Shelter, Hai Tang Pagoda, and Fishing Village: These cultural stops give insight into local Vietnamese life and traditions. Kelly appreciated the view of the village and how locals live, making this part of the trip more meaningful than just the beach.

Snorkeling and Free Time

The snorkeling segment is generally well-liked, with many travelers enjoying the chance to see colorful fish in clear waters. Stephen called it a “great spot for snorkeling,” though some might find the crowding and the chaos less appealing. The ecological zones like Bai Ong or Bai Chong Beach are good spots to unwind, swim, or simply soak up the sun.

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Lunch and Relaxation

Most participants spend about 1.5 hours at the beach or ecological zones, enjoying a traditional Vietnamese seafood lunch. From reviews, this meal is often considered a highlight, with Kelly saying it was “great” and worth the trip. Keep in mind that the lunch timing might be affected by weather or other logistical issues, and some travelers felt they had limited free time afterward.

Return Journey and Drop-off

The trip wraps up around 2:30 pm with the boat ride back to the mainland, followed by van transfers to your hotel. The overall process is efficient, with most reviews noting the trustworthiness of the arrangement and the friendly guides.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy moderate adventure and are curious about local culture and marine life. It’s ideal if you’re looking for an affordable day trip that combines sightseeing with snorkeling and a delicious seafood meal. Active families, group travelers, or solo explorers who want a full-day overview of Cham Island will find it satisfying.

However, it’s not perfect for everyone. Those seeking a peaceful, solitary experience might find the crowds overwhelming, especially during peak season. Also, if you have mobility issues or are pregnant, the physical demands or the busy environment may pose challenges.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

The Cham Islands snorkeling tour offers a well-rounded day of scenic boat rides, cultural insights, vibrant marine life, and tasty seafood. For around $33, you get a lot of value—especially if you enjoy active mornings combined with relaxed beach time. The friendly guides and beautiful settings make it a memorable outing, though the potential for crowds and weather-related schedule changes are worth considering.

If you’re the kind of traveler who enjoys group tours that balance sightseeing and leisure, this trip can be a fantastic way to experience Vietnam’s coastal charm without breaking the bank. Just remember, the more flexible and patient you are, the more you’ll enjoy what Cham Island has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Pickups generally start between 7:00 and 8:30 am, so it’s best to be prepared early to ensure on-time departure.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear to enjoy snorkeling and beach time comfortably.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
While it’s generally okay for active children, those with mobility issues or vertigo should consider the physical demands and busyness of the snorkeling areas.

Are there additional costs not included?
The tour covers transportation, guide, entrance fees, meals, and insurance. However, personal expenses like souvenirs or optional activities like jet skiing are extra.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour can be canceled or shortened due to weather conditions. It’s advisable to check the weather forecast and be flexible with your plans.

Can I snorkel alone?
Snorkeling is done in groups, often in crowded conditions. If you prefer solitude, be aware that some reviews mention chaos at snorkeling spots.

Is lunch included, and what is it like?
Yes, a traditional Vietnamese seafood lunch is included, often praised as a highlight for its freshness and flavor.

How long are the stops at each location?
Stops vary but generally include about 1.5 hours at the ecological zones and cultural sites, with snorkeling and beach time in between.

Are there any restrictions on activities?
Littering, drone flying, and welcoming banners are not allowed. The tour is also not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with vertigo.

In all, the Cham Islands snorkeling tour by speedboat combines beautiful scenery, cultural insights, and marine adventure, making it a solid choice for travelers eager to see Vietnam’s coastal treasures without fuss. Just keep your expectations flexible, and you’ll likely come away with some memorable moments—and maybe even a few fish stories.

You can check availability for your dates here: