Da Nang/Hoi An: Cham Island Speedboat Tour with Snorkeling

If you’re looking for a lively day trip that combines scenic boat rides, marine wildlife, and a taste of local seafood, the Cham Island Speedboat Tour with Snorkeling offers just that. Priced at around $37 per person and lasting approximately 5.5 hours, this tour takes you from Da Nang or Hoi An to the beautiful Cham Islands—a UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve.

What we love about this experience is the ease of travel—speedboats whisk you across the water quickly, giving you more time to enjoy the island’s natural beauty. You’ll appreciate the chance to see spectacular marine life and the coral reefs, especially if you’re a snorkeling enthusiast. Plus, the local seafood lunch provides an authentic taste of Vietnamese flavors, served in a relaxed, island setting.

One potential consideration is the crowded snorkeling spots—as some reviews mention, multiple boats visit the same reefs, which can lead to busy conditions. Plus, the tour’s snorkeling window is around 45 minutes, which may feel short for avid underwater explorers. Still, if you’re after a straightforward, well-organized day trip with friendly guides, this tour might be just what you’re looking for.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, marine life, and authentic local cuisine. It’s especially suited for those who want a manageable, roughly half-day adventure that includes plenty of time to relax and soak up the atmosphere on the island. However, if you’re seeking an in-depth dive into snorkeling or a more exclusive experience, you might want to explore other options.

Key Points

• Quick & Scenic Transport: Speedboats make the journey to Cham Island exciting and fast.
• Marine & Cultural Highlights: Snorkeling, exploring biosphere reserves, and visiting historical sites like Hai Tang pagoda.
• Authentic Local Food: Enjoy a set Vietnamese seafood lunch on the island, offering genuine flavors.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides enhance the day with insights into the island’s natural and cultural sights.
• Crowd Consideration: Popular spots can get crowded, especially during peak season.
• Limited Snorkeling Time: About 45 minutes of actual snorkeling might leave some wanting more underwater time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Journey Begins

The day kicks off with a pick-up from your hotel in either Da Nang or Hoi An, usually between 7:30 and 8:30 am. This early start is advantageous, giving you a full day of exploration. The journey involves a short van ride (about 30 minutes) to Cua Dai Port, where you’ll stop briefly at the Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village—a perfect spot for a quick photo and to appreciate local craftsmanship.

This part of the trip is straightforward; the guides typically handle the logistics seamlessly. As you wait for your speedboat, you might enjoy watching local fishermen or taking in the morning air, setting the tone for a relaxed day.

Speedboat to Cham Island

Boarding the high-speed canoe around 9:15 to 9:30 am, you’ll feel the wind in your hair as the boat races across the water, cutting through waves and offering exhilarating views of the coast. The 30-minute ride is often lively, with plenty of photo opportunities—both of the coastline and the open sea.

Exploring Cham Island

Upon arrival at Cham Island, you’ll have about an hour to explore some of its highlights. This includes visiting the Cham Biosphere Reserve, where you can learn about the island’s ecological importance, and seeing the ancient well and Hai Tang pagoda—a quiet spot that offers a glimpse into traditional Vietnamese spirituality and history.

A notable feature is the Seafood Market at Tan Hiep, where travelers often stop for a quick browse or to pick up fresh ingredients. This adds an authentic touch, letting you see local life up close.

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Beach Time & Snorkeling

Next, you’ll head to one of the coastal beaches—either Bai Lang, Bai Ong, or Bai Chong—to change into your swimsuit. The scenery here is laid-back, with golden sands and clear waters. At around 11:30 am, snorkeling sessions begin, lasting approximately 45 minutes.

Reviews mention that the coral reefs are vibrant and teeming with fish—many colorful and shy, as Kevin from Belgium noted. However, some travelers find the crowded conditions somewhat detract from the experience, especially since multiple boats tend to visit the same reefs simultaneously.

Lunch and Relaxation

Close to noon, you’ll return to the beach for a family-style Vietnamese seafood lunch. The meal typically includes one kind of fish and some prawns, so don’t expect an endless buffet, but the flavors are fresh and authentic. After lunch, there’s free time for swimming or sunbathing, giving you a chance to relax on the island or take more photos before heading back.

Return Trip & End of Tour

By around 3 pm, you’ll board the speedboat back to the port, then transfer to your hotel via van, with drop-offs planned at various locations in Da Nang or Hoi An. The overall day feels well-paced, balancing activity and downtime effectively.

Honest Insights from Travelers

Many reviewers highlight friendly, knowledgeable guides who add value through interesting commentary and smooth logistics. One traveler from Australia appreciated the “lovely guide and pretty place”, though some also noted safety concerns, like slippery boat ladders and jellyfish in the water.

The short snorkeling window is a common theme—some wish for more underwater exploration time, especially if they love marine life. Others found the lunch satisfactory, though a few expected more variety for the price.

A few satirical comments about the discrepancy between the tour’s description and reality—such as the boat type—serve as reminders to keep expectations flexible.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring your camera to capture the scenery and marine life.
• Cash is handy for small purchases or tips.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the island and sunglasses to shield your eyes.
• Luggage or large bags are not allowed on the boat, so pack light.
• If you’re prone to motion sickness, consider taking precautions, as boat rides can be bumpy.
• The tour is not suitable for over 95-year-olds or those with altitude or motion sickness.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure suits travelers who enjoy lively boat rides, marine environments, and local cuisine. It’s perfect if you’re after a balanced mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxation without the hassle of planning multiple stops. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a manageable day trip will find it rewarding, especially if they appreciate guides with local knowledge.

Those seeking deep underwater exploration or a more secluded, exclusive experience may find the snorkeling component somewhat limited, and crowded conditions a drawback.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

The Cham Island Speedboat Tour is a solid, affordable way to experience Vietnam’s coastal beauty and underwater life without overcomplicating your plans. You’ll get to see traditional sites, enjoy vibrant coral reefs, and savor fresh seafood—all in a single day. While the snorkeling may feel brief and spots can be crowded, the lively boat ride, friendly guides, and authentic lunch make up for it.

If you’re eager for a fun, active, and culturally rich day with easy logistics, this tour offers genuine value. It’s especially suitable for those who want a taste of island life without dedicating several days or spending a fortune.

For travelers who prioritize off-the-beaten-path tranquility, or desire more extensive underwater adventures, other options might better suit your tastes. Still, for a lively, well-organized outing that captures the essence of Cham Island, this tour hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 5.5 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, snorkeling, and lunch.

What time does the tour start and end?
Pick-up is typically between 7:30 and 8:30 am, with the tour concluding around 3:00 to 3:30 pm.

Is snorkeling included?
Yes, there is about 45 minutes of snorkeling on the reefs, with opportunities to swim and see marine life.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, a family-style Vietnamese seafood lunch is included, served at a local restaurant on the island.

Can I buy souvenirs or local products?
There is a seafood market stop where you can browse or purchase fresh seafood, giving an authentic taste of local commerce.

Are the boats comfortable?
The boats are high-speed canoes, designed for quick transport. Some reviews mention bumpy rides, so be prepared for a lively journey.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s best for travelers without mobility issues or health concerns related to motion sickness. The tour is not recommended for those over 95 years old.

Embark on this lively adventure to Cham Island, and you’ll return with memories of vibrant marine life, cultural sights, and a delicious taste of Vietnam’s coastal flavors.

You can check availability for your dates here: