Full-day Cham Islands Cruise from Hoi An with Underwater Walking Excursion

Experience the Cham Islands from Hoi An with a full-day cruise that includes an underwater walking adventure, snorkeling, swimming, and a delicious beachside lunch for around $45. You’ll spend about 7 hours exploring UNESCO Biosphere Reserve waters, with highlights like the underwater walk—a truly unique way to see marine life without needing scuba gear—plus ample free time for swimming and relaxing on pristine beaches. The tour also offers convenient hotel pickup and professional guides who ensure safety and fun.

What we love most is how accessible this adventure is: no prior experience needed for underwater walking, with all equipment provided, and the sense of escape from crowded Hoi An into the peaceful, vibrant waters of Cham Islands. The second highlight is the quality of the lunch, served beachfront, featuring fresh seafood—perfect after a morning splashing around.

A possible consideration is the water clarity, which can vary depending on recent weather, affecting underwater visibility during the sea walk and snorkeling. It’s also worth noting that the tour duration is fixed at about 7 hours, which some might find a bit long if you prefer shorter outings.

This tour suits travelers who love marine life, want a hassle-free day trip, and are keen on unique experiences like underwater walking. Families, friends, or solo travelers who appreciate well-organized trips with knowledgeable guides will find it rewarding.

• Accessible adventure: No experience required for underwater walking, equipment included.
• Beautiful setting: The Cham Islands offer vibrant marine life and peaceful beaches.
• Well-organized logistics: Pickup, boat rides, and meals are smoothly handled.
• Value for money: For $45, you get a full day of activities, lunch, and transport.
• Variable water clarity: Weather conditions can affect underwater visibility.
• Suitable for families: Kids over 8 can try the underwater walk; younger kids enjoy snorkeling.

What is the Cham Islands tour from Hoi An really all about?

This full-day cruise, operated by SeaTrek VietNam, takes you from the historic town of Hoi An to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Cham Islands, about an hour away by traditional Vietnamese boat. For around $45, you’ll experience a mix of adventure, relaxation, and local flavor over roughly 7 hours. The day kicks off with hotel pickup (a big plus, saving you the hassle of organizing transport), followed by a scenic boat ride to the islands.

The main attraction is the underwater walking activity, which sets this tour apart from typical snorkeling trips. You don’t have to be a diver—just a minimum age of 8, full instructions, and all gear are provided. If underwater walking isn’t your thing, there’s still plenty of time for snorkeling, swimming, or just lounging on the beaches.

Two things make this tour particularly enjoyable: First, the guides are knowledgeable and reassuring. Several reviews praise the staff for their friendliness and professionalism, making even nervous first-timers feel comfortable. Second, the marine environment is stunning, with coral reefs and fish that surpass expectations—at least when water clarity is good.

A potential drawback? Weather conditions can influence the experience. Some guests noted that water clarity during sea walking was less impressive due to recent weather, and in rare cases, activities might be canceled or altered (like the underwater walk being replaced with a speedboat transfer). Plus, the tour runs on a fixed schedule, so if you’re looking for a shorter or more flexible outing, this might not be ideal.

This trip suits travelers seeking a safe, well-organized day on the water, especially those eager to try underwater walking in a beautiful setting. It’s perfect for families, adventure-seekers, and anyone wanting a break from the bustling streets of Hoi An.

A Breakdown of the Itinerary: What to Expect

Morning Pickup and Departure

The adventure begins early, with pickup around 8:00 am (usually between 7:30 and 8:00, depending on your hotel). The guide will transport you comfortably to Cua Dai Wharf, where you board a traditional boat—think wooden vessel with character. The ride is around an hour—a relaxing start, and a chance to get excited for the day ahead.

Arrival at Cham Islands and Underwater Walking

Upon reaching Hon Nhon beach, the main event begins. The underwater walking tour takes place here, with all the gear provided, plus safety instructions from your guide. The experience involves walking on the sea floor with a transparent helmet, giving you close-up views of colorful corals and curious fish. Reviewers like Thomas call this activity “loads of fun” and note that the coral reefs exceeded their expectations.

The underwater walk typically lasts about 15 minutes, but in that short time, you get a surprisingly immersive glimpse of the marine environment—more than you’d see just snorkeling from the surface. The waterproof helmets are designed to be comfortable; however, some guests have mentioned that water clarity can vary, affecting how much they see underwater. Still, most agree it’s a highlight worth trying.

Beach and Lunch at Bai Chong Beach

Around 11:00 AM, you’ll head to Bai Chong Beach, a natural ecological site with calm waters and sandy shores. Here, a delicious seafood lunch awaits at a beachfront restaurant. Guests consistently praise the fresh fish, shrimp, and local flavors, with many reviewers calling it “good value” for the price. After lunch, you can relax in hammocks, swim in the clear waters, or explore the beach.

This downtime is appreciated—some reviewers mention it as “the perfect way to unwind,” especially after the morning’s activities. The beach’s uncrowded, peaceful atmosphere is a bonus, making it a genuine escape from tourist hubs.

Return Journey and Wrap-up

By 2:00 PM, it’s time to head back. The boat departs for Hoi An, giving you a leisurely ride back that allows for reflections on the day. Some guests remark that the entire experience, from pickup to drop-off, is very smoothly run, with attentive guides ensuring everyone’s safety and comfort.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, all necessary snorkeling and underwater walking gear, a professional guide, and a beachside seafood lunch. The presence of a safety diver adds reassurance, especially during the underwater walk.

Extras like alcoholic drinks and micro SD cards for photos are available for purchase, but not included in the package. It’s wise to bring a waterproof camera if you want to capture the underwater moments—though some guests have noted the water can be murky, affecting photo quality.

The Authentic Touch: What Do Travelers Say?

Feedback from travelers paints a realistic picture. Many praise the guides’ professionalism and friendliness, often citing their reassurance during the underwater walk. For example, Catheryn B mentions, “the staff were lovely and reassuring,” which is key for first-timers or nervous swimmers.

Coral and marine life are a mixed bag, depending on weather conditions. Ariel S notes that visibility was poor during their sea walk, attributed to recent bad weather. It’s a reminder that natural conditions influence the experience, and flexibility is necessary.

Lunch gets generally high marks, with many appreciating the fresh seafood and relaxing setting. Some reviewers comment that the entire day is well-organized, with pickup on time and gear supplied properly.

However, a few mention disappointing water clarity and less-than-expected snorkeling spots, which can be frustrating if underwater views are your main goal. Still, the overall tone remains positive, especially for those seeking a safe, fun, and memorable marine adventure.

Practical Tips for Enjoying the Tour

• Wear comfortable swimwear and bring a towel and sunscreen.
• Arrive early for the pickup, especially if you’re staying outside Hoi An’s center.
• Footwear like sandals can be handy for walking on the beach and getting in and out of the water.
• If possible, bring a waterproof camera or phone case to capture underwater moments.
• Expect some variability in water visibility—don’t be disappointed if conditions change unexpectedly.
• For those with pre-existing health conditions, consult your doctor and complete the health questionnaire provided on booking.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This full-day Cham Islands trip offers a mix of adventure and relaxation that suits a wide range of travelers. If you’re eager to experience underwater walking in a scenic, natural setting without the need for diving certification, this is a great choice. Families with kids over 8 will find it especially appealing, as the activities are designed to be safe and guided.

It’s also perfect for those who want a well-organized, hassle-free day with delicious food and stunning views, making it a fantastic value at $45. However, if water clarity or a shorter trip are deal-breakers, you might want to consider other options.

This tour is a wonderful way to escape the crowds of Hoi An and enjoy a memorable day exploring Vietnam’s vibrant marine environment, with plenty of opportunities to relax, take photos, and just enjoy being by the water.

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, pickup and drop-off from most hotels in Hoi An are included, making the day straightforward to plan.

How long does the boat ride take? About one hour each way on a traditional Vietnamese boat, providing a gentle start and finish to your day.

What’s the minimum age for underwater walking? Participants must be at least 8 years old to do the underwater walk. Younger children can join snorkeling but not the walk.

Do I need prior experience? No. The activity is designed for beginners, with full instructions and equipment provided. Guides are there to reassure and assist.

What if the water is murky or the weather is bad? Visibility can vary depending on recent weather conditions. Sometimes activities might be canceled or altered, but safety is the priority.

What’s included in the price? Hotel pickup/drop-off, snorkeling and underwater walking gear, a professional guide and safety diver, and a seafood lunch.

Are alcoholic drinks available? Not included but can be purchased separately at the beach restaurant.

Can I buy photos or souvenirs? Micro SD cards and other souvenirs are available for purchase, but consider bringing your own waterproof camera.

How long is the tour? Approximately 7 hours, from pickup early in the morning to return in the early afternoon.

Whether you’re after a novel underwater experience or simply want to enjoy the marine beauty of the Cham Islands with ease, this tour offers a well-rounded, memorable adventure that balances activity and relaxation.