Phu Quoc: Snorkeling and Island Hopping By Speedboat with Lunch

Traveling in Phu Quoc offers countless ways to enjoy its natural beauty, but few experiences match the excitement and authenticity of a full-day snorkeling and island-hopping tour. This particular trip, rated 5.0 based on 27 reviews, has earned high praise for its well-organized itinerary, friendly guides, and scenic stops. If you’re seeking a day filled with adventure, stunning landscapes, and a taste of local island life, this tour might just be your ideal outing.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the speedboat ride offers a quick and exhilarating way to cover multiple islands, avoiding long boat journeys or crowded tourist spots. Second, the stops at May Rut Ngoai, Mong Tay, and Gam Ghi Islands provide a balanced mix of relaxing beaches, snorkeling, and cultural vibe—all with plenty of photo opportunities. Lastly, the knowledgeable guides, like Huy and Stephan, genuinely enhance the experience with local insights and attentive care.

That said, a consideration worth noting is that the coral reefs can vary in vibrancy, with some reviewers mentioning some dead corals. Also, because weather conditions influence the schedule, flexibility might be required on the day of your trip.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love a mix of water activities, scenic island views, and sociable group outings. It’s especially ideal for those who want a good balance of adventure and relaxation, with a focus on authentic experiences rather than luxury.

Good To Know

• Affordable value at around $53 per person for a full-day adventure.
• Diverse stops including snorkeling, beach relaxing, and photo opportunities.
• Expert guides who are enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and attentive.
• Flexible itinerary adapted for weather, ensuring safety and the best experience.
• All necessary equipment provided, including snorkeling gear and fresh fruits.
• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off in key areas of Phu Quoc.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: The Morning Pickup and Speedboat Ride

The day kicks off early at Ngoc Hien Pearl Farm or other central locations, with hotel pickups in popular areas like Duong Dong, Bai Truong, or An Thoi. This convenience is a big plus—no need to navigate or arrange transport, especially if you’re new to the island. Once everyone is gathered, the group heads to the harbor, where a speedboat awaits, ready to whisk you across the waters.

The ride itself is where the excitement begins. The boat is designed for comfort and speed, giving you a quick way to reach the islands while soaking in the views. Expect to spend around 9 hours total, including breaks, snorkeling, and meals, which offers solid value considering the number of stops and activities.

May Rut Ngoai Island: Snorkeling and Flycam Fun

Your first stop is May Rut Ngoai Island, which is often the highlight for visitors. Here, you can swim, snorkel, or even shoot aerial footage with a flycam (if you opt for that extra expense). Reviewers like Andres describe this as a “really good spot for photoshoots and snorkeling,” emphasizing how the clear waters and shallow coral reefs make for great underwater viewing.

One reviewer mentions that if you’re not into taking pictures, guides are flexible and can direct you to alternative snorkeling spots. It’s worth noting that some corals are dead, which is a common issue in many reef areas globally, but there’s still plenty to see in terms of colorful fish and marine life.

May Rut Trong Island: Lunch and Relaxation

A popular aspect of this tour is the lunch stop at Mong Tay (or May Rut Trong) Island. The guide will help you settle in for a relaxed meal, with fresh local dishes served on the beach. The setting is postcard-perfect—white sand, palm trees, and the sound of gentle waves. It’s a good chance to unwind, socialize, and reflect on the morning’s adventures.

Guests like Brian found this part particularly enjoyable, mentioning the “wonderful crew” that took care of them. The meal offers a taste of local flavors, making this more authentic than typical tourist buffet options.

Gam Ghi Island: Snorkeling and Fish Playtime

Post-lunch, the journey continues to Gam Ghi Island, renowned for snorkeling and its lively marine life. It’s where many travelers find the underwater scenery surprisingly vibrant. Despite some reports of coral bleaching, the fish and other sea creatures still provide plenty of entertainment. Reviewers who snorkeled here noted “playing with fish” as a highlight, and many appreciated the equipment provided.

Flexible Schedule and Weather Considerations

Throughout the day, guides remain attentive to weather conditions, which can influence the order of stops. They prioritize safety, often shifting plans to avoid rough seas or poor visibility. This flexibility ensures you get the best experience possible, even if it means some minor changes to the itinerary.

Returning to Land: The End of the Journey

By late afternoon, the boat heads back toward the harbor, with an estimated return around 5 PM. The ride offers opportunities to relax, enjoy the sunset, or review photos. The tour company provides cold water and fresh fruits on the boat, ideal for rehydrating after a day in the sun.

Practical Details and What You Should Know

Tour Duration and Group Size

This is an 8-hour experience, making it ideal for a full day’s outing without feeling too rushed. The group sizes are capped at 25 travelers, which means you’ll get a more intimate experience compared to bigger tours.

Transportation and Convenience

Included hotel pickup and drop-off in key areas eliminate the hassle of arranging your own transport. If you’re staying outside city centers, there’s an extra charge, but for most visitors, the included transfers make things easy.

Cost and Value

At just over $53 per person, the tour offers good value considering the multiple stops, snorkeling gear, lunch, and guided service. The reviews suggest that guides like Huy and Stephan go above and beyond to ensure guests are comfortable and informed, which enhances the overall value.

What’s Included and Not

You’ll get snorkeling equipment, photography with flycam, fresh fruits, lunch, and a friendly bilingual guide. Personal expenses, tips, or holiday surcharges are extras, so budget accordingly.

Accessibility and Suitability

Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The tour is suitable for those who enjoy water activities and island scenery, but be prepared for the sun and a fair amount of walking or swimming.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

Reviewers consistently mention the enthusiasm and professionalism of guides like Huy and Stephan. For example, Andres appreciated the “enthusiastic” guide who made his trip memorable, and Brian praised Stephan’s helpfulness and good English skills.

The coral reefs, while somewhat affected, still offer enough marine life for a rewarding snorkeling experience. One traveler pointed out that with patience, you can see some interesting fish, even if the corals aren’t at their most vibrant.

Guests also appreciated the flexibility of the schedule, with guides accommodating those who are less inclined to take photos. The relaxed, friendly atmosphere was a common theme, making it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers.

The Sum Up

This Phu Quoc snorkeling and island-hopping tour strikes a fine balance between adventure, relaxation, and culture. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want value-packed activities with experienced guides who genuinely care about your experience. The stops are scenic, the water activities are fun, and the logistics are straightforward.

If you’re after a day that combines beautiful beaches, underwater exploration, and local flavor, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s especially ideal for those who prefer a guided experience that’s flexible and safe, with enough room for spontaneous moments.

While coral health is a variable factor, the overall experience remains enjoyable, thanks to the friendly guides and stunning islands. For anyone looking for an authentic, fun-filled way to explore the waters around Phu Quoc, this trip offers a memorable and worthwhile adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs around 8:30 AM, with pickup from your hotel or specified meeting points.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included in popular areas like Duong Dong, Bai Truong, and An Thoi. Outside these areas, there’s an extra charge.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, leaving plenty of time for multiple stops, snorkeling, and lunch.

What is included in the price?
Snorkeling equipment, photography with flycam at May Rut Island, fresh fruits, cold water, lunch, and a bilingual guide are included.

Are there any additional costs?
Personal expenses, tips, and holiday surcharges (on specific dates) are payable separately. If you want the flycam or other extras, those are paid additionally.

Can I participate if I don’t snorkel?
Absolutely. The guides are flexible, and if you prefer not to snorkel, they can suggest alternative spots for relaxing or sightseeing.

What about safety and weather?
The schedule may adjust depending on weather conditions to ensure safety. The tour offers a full refund or alternative date if canceled due to bad weather.

Is this suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the physical activity involved. The boat ride, snorkeling, and walking may require some stamina.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, swimwear, a towel, and waterproof camera or phone case. The tour provides snorkeling gear, but you can also bring your own if preferred.

This tour offers an authentic taste of Phu Quoc’s waters and islands. Whether you’re a snorkel enthusiast, a beach lover, or someone seeking a lively day out, it’s a great way to see the best of southern Phu Quoc’s beautiful archipelago.