Exploring Phu Quoc’s Waters: A Practical, Authentic Adventure

For travelers eager to experience the natural beauty of Phu Quoc Island, the Island Hopping and Snorkeling Tour with Lunch offers a delightful, well-organized day. Priced at just $28 per person, this roughly 7-hour trip takes you from Duong Dong to some of the most scenic spots around the island, including Xuong Island (or Gam Ghi Island) and May Rut Trong Island. A friendly English-speaking guide accompanies you, making navigation and local insights easy and engaging.
What we particularly like about this tour are the thoughtfully balanced activities: engaging snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs and plenty of relaxing beach time. The lunch onboard, served after your underwater adventure, provides a taste of local hospitality without any extra fuss. Plus, the pickup service from Duong Dong makes logistics simple, especially if you’re staying nearby.
One thing to keep in mind is that some optional activities—like the sea walker—are external add-ons, which may depend on water clarity and conditions. If you’re not keen on snorkeling or beach lounging, this tour might feel a bit limited, but for those seeking a genuine taste of island life, it’s a perfect fit.
This tour suits travelers who enjoy a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s especially good for first-time visitors wanting an authentic, worry-free day on the water, with enough time to explore, snorkel, and soak in the island scenery.
Key Points

Affordable price for a full day of island exploration
Inclusive snorkeling gear and fishing equipment, no hidden costs
Flexible relaxation options at May Rut Trong Island’s beach bar
Well-coordinated itinerary that balances activities and free time
Knowledgeable guides enhancing the local experience
Limited group size (maximum 20 travelers) for more personal attention
Fascinated by underwater life? Here are other snorkeling spots we've covered in Phu Quoc
A Detailed Look at the Phu Quoc Island Hopping Experience

Starting Out: Convenient Pickup from Duong Dong
The tour begins with a pickup from Duong Dong around 9:15-9:30 am, which is especially helpful if you’re staying in the area. Those outside Duong Dong might need to contact the operator for a pickup surcharge, so it’s worth planning your accommodation accordingly. Once aboard, the day starts smoothly, with a round trip transfer by car and boat, setting the tone for a hassle-free experience.
First Stop: An Thoi Harbor and the Journey South
After a brief ride to An Thoi harbor, you’ll climb aboard your boat, ready to explore some of the most scenic spots south of Phu Quoc. The boat itself is comfortable enough for a day trip, and the small group size (up to 20 people) keeps the atmosphere friendly and intimate.
The first notable activity is fishing—a 30-minute opportunity to try your hand at traditional local methods. We loved the demonstration by the guide on how to use the fishing equipment, which adds a cultural touch to the trip and helps you appreciate the local way of life.
Snorkeling at Gam Ghi Island
Perhaps the highlight for many travelers is snorkeling at Gam Ghi Island. Known for spectacular coral reefs and a variety of marine life, this stop offers about two hours of underwater exploration. The provided snorkeling gear—masks, snorkels, and fins—makes it easy to get in the water, even if you’re new to snorkeling. Keep in mind that fins aren’t available in children’s sizes, so if you’re traveling with little ones, plan accordingly.
While the coral reefs are unspoiled and vibrant, water clarity can sometimes vary, which might affect the sea walker experience or underwater visibility. One reviewer mentioned that conditions like water clarity may vary, so while the reefs are undeniably beautiful, expectations should be flexible.
While in Phu Quoc, here are other experiences we've covered
- Best Seller Northern Phu Quoc & Kayak Aventure with lunch
- Phu Quoc : Northern Island Tour with Kayaking and Lunch
- Phu Quoc: Full-Day Fishing Tour with Lunch/Dinner
- Phu Quoc: Cable Car Ride and 3 Islands Boat Tour with Lunch
- Phu Quoc: 3-Island Tour & Cruise with Lunch & Water Sports
- Phu Quoc: 3 Islands Day Trip with Snorkeling and Lunch
Lunch on Board: A Local Feast
After working up an appetite, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch served onboard. The menu typically features local flavors, and the convenience of eating while cruising makes it a very pleasant experience. The lunch is included in the tour price, which adds excellent value compared to other tours that charge extra for meals.
Relaxation and Beach Time at May Rut Trong Island
The final stop is May Rut Trong Island, where relaxation reigns supreme. You’ll have about two hours to unwind on the sandy shores, swim, or sip drinks at the Beach Bar. The scenery here is picture-perfect: soft sands, gentle waves, and coconut trees swaying in the breeze. It’s an ideal spot for taking photos or just lounging.
Many travelers appreciate this laid-back ending, and the opportunity to rest on sunbeds or take a dip enhances the experience. Some reviews highlight the friendly staff at the Beach Bar, making it easy to order a drink and enjoy the scenery.
Additional Highlights and Considerations
The entire journey is well-organized, with timely departures and a clear itinerary. The tour’s maximum of 20 travelers ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the friendly, knowledgeable guide adds local color and safety.
However, a few practical considerations: personal expenses like sunbed rentals or showers are not included, and additional water might be something to bring along if you’re extra thirsty or sensitive to the sun. Also, if you’re not a fan of snorkeling or beach lounging, this trip might feel too inactivity-focused.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This tour is best suited for first-time visitors eager to experience the highlights of Phu Quoc’s waters without fuss. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for an affordable, balanced day of adventure and relaxation. If you value friendly guides, authentic local activities like fishing, and beautiful coral reefs, you’ll find plenty to love here.
It also suits those who want some flexibility—with free time on the beaches and the chance to snorkel at your own pace—and appreciate the value of included meals and gear. While it’s a full day, it’s paced well enough so you won’t feel rushed, and the small group size makes for a more personal experience.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

For just $28, you receive a comprehensive, well-paced day of island exploration. The combination of snorkeling, local fishing, and relaxing on pristine beaches offers a genuine taste of Phu Quoc’s natural beauty. The inclusion of lunch and snorkeling gear makes it a very competitive option—especially considering the cost.
What makes this experience stand out is the balance of activities and the personalized attention from guides, which enhances the overall enjoyment. The scenic stops and authentic local interactions provide a meaningful glimpse into island life, making it more than just a touristy boat ride.
While water conditions can vary, the friendly guides and well-organized schedule help ensure that most you will leave satisfied. This tour is ideal if you seek easy access to snorkeling reefs, beach relaxation, and local cultural insights—all packed into a budget-friendly day.
FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup from Duong Dong ward is offered, making logistics easier. If you stay outside Duong Dong, contact the operator for a surcharge.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, starting around 9:30 am and finishing in the early afternoon.
What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a towel or extra water. Snorkeling gear is provided, but you might want to bring your own if you prefer a specific mask or fins.
Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but fins are not available for children’s sizes. Check with the provider if traveling with young kids.
What is included in the price?
The tour includes round-trip transportation, a guide, snorkeling equipment, fishing gear, a bottle of water, and an onboard lunch.
What is not included?
Personal expenses such as optional services, additional water, sunbed rentals, or showers at the beach are extra.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund.
More Lunch Experiences in Phu Quoc
- Phu Quoc: 3 Islands Tour with Cable Car & Buffet Lunch
- Phu Quoc: Starfish Beach, Kayaking, and Lunch Day Trip
- Phu Quoc: Snorkeling and Island Hopping By Speedboat with Lunch
- Snorkeling Island Hopping with Cable Car and Lunch
- Robinson Tour By Private Speedboat with BBQ Lunch
- Best Seller Land Tour Phu Quoc Southern Island with lunch
More Tours in Phu Quoc
- Phu Quoc Sightseeing Day Tour
- Phu Quoc Paradise Night Tour with Nautilus Sunset Cruise
- Phu Quoc 1 Day Tour Discovering the South Island Cable Car
- Charm Phu Quoc 3 Island Tour by Boat and Cable Car
- Phu Quoc: 5-Day Island Highlights Tour with Transfers
- Discover Phu Quoc 3 Island Tour by Boat and Cable Car 1 day
More Tour Reviews in Phu Quoc
More Phu Quoc experiences we've covered
- Phu Quoc Sightseeing Day Tour
- Phu Quoc Highlights With Spectacular Cable Car Ride
- Phu Quoc Paradise Night Tour with Nautilus Sunset Cruise
- Phu Quoc 1 Day Tour Discovering the South Island Cable Car
- Private Transfer from Phu Quoc (PQC) Airport to Cua Can
- Discover 3 islands of Phu Quoc by boat
- Dinner with Fireworks, Symphony & Kiss of the Sea Show
- Charm Phu Quoc 3 Island Tour by Boat and Cable Car
- Phu Quoc: 5-Day Island Highlights Tour with Transfers
- Discover Phu Quoc 3 Island Tour by Boat and Cable Car 1 day
- Private Land Tour & Cable car in the South of Phu Quoc island
- Phu Quoc Half-Day Tour with Sunset BBQ & Night Squid Fishing
