Starfish Beach and Floating Village Combo Boat Trip Seafood Lunch

Getting a genuine feel for Phu Quoc isn’t just about lounging at luxury resorts or snapping photos of postcard-perfect beaches. For travelers seeking a more authentic experience, the Starfish Beach and Floating Village Combo offers a wonderful blend of scenery, local culture, and scrumptious seafood—all wrapped into a flexible, family-friendly half-day adventure.

What we love about this tour is how it balances scenic boat rides with hands-on activities like fishing and snorkeling, all while giving you a true peek into the island’s traditional fishing lifestyle. The delicious seafood lunch served at their floating restaurant is another highlight, offering a taste of local flavors that’s hard to beat. Plus, the ability to start the trip at your convenience makes it perfect for those wanting a relaxed, unhurried day.

One consideration is that the activities are weather-dependent. If the skies turn grey or the sea gets too choppy, the tour might be canceled or modified, which is common for outdoor adventures. Still, this flexibility shows the operator’s focus on safety and quality.

This experience suits travelers craving a cultural connection, families with kids, or anyone interested in seeing a side of Phu Quoc beyond the touristy spots. If you love authentic local life, fresh seafood, and scenic boat rides, this trip will tick all those boxes.

Good To Know

• Flexible Start Times: Start your day whenever it suits you, between 8 AM and 4 PM.
• Authentic Experience: Visit a family-run floating house and learn about local life firsthand.
• Relaxing and Active: Enjoy scenic boat rides, snorkeling, and fishing—all with provided gear.
• Gourmet Seafood Lunch: Indulge in five freshly prepared seafood dishes at a floating restaurant.
• Breathtaking Views: Starfish Beach offers crystal-clear waters and the chance to see starfish in their natural habitat.
• Small Group Feel: Limited to 10 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

Full Review: What to Expect from the Tour

The Meeting Point and Flexibility

Your journey begins at Nha Trên Bin – Joy Adventures, located in Rach Vem village. One of the first things that stood out is the flexible start time—you can arrive anytime between 8 AM and 4 PM. This flexibility is quite handy, especially if you’re traveling with a flexible schedule or want to avoid early morning crowds. According to reviews, arriving early, around 8 AM, allows you to enjoy Starfish Beach with fewer visitors, making for a more intimate experience.

The Scenic Boat Ride

The tour kicks off with a traditional boat ride to Starfish Beach. Expect a gentle, scenic cruise that offers lovely views of the water and surrounding nature. The boat is equipped with life jackets and is small enough for a friendly group feel, typically capped at 10 travelers. Reviewers mention the boat ride as relaxing and highlight the opportunity to enjoy the sea breeze and watch local fishermen at work.

Starfish Beach: Nature’s Treasure

The star attraction is, of course, Starfish Beach. Here, the water is so clear you can see the starfish clinging to the seabed, a truly mesmerizing sight. Several reviewers have noted that their experience was enhanced by arriving early—before the crowds—allowing them to enjoy the tranquility and take plenty of photos. One traveler commented, “Getting to Starfish Beach before others meant it was almost like having the whole beach to yourself,” which adds to the appeal.

The beach itself offers ample free time, usually enough to swim, snorkel, or simply relax. The provided snorkeling gear is a nice touch, allowing you to explore the underwater world and search for scallops or marine life. Reviewers also appreciated the opportunity to fish from the pier, with some catching small fish to learn how the locals do it.

The Floating Village Experience

Back on the boat, you’ll visit a genuine floating house that is part of a local family’s everyday life. This isn’t a staged tourist spot; it’s a glimpse into what life on the water truly looks like. The guides are knowledgeable and eager to share insights, helping visitors appreciate the fishing community’s traditions and daily routines.

The Seafood Feast

Lunch is a standout feature—five seafood dishes prepared fresh and served at the floating restaurant. Typical offerings include grilled fish with homemade pepper sauce, crab fried rice, squid, prawns, and scallops. One reviewer raved about the “absolutely awesome” seafood lunch, especially the steamed fish. As part of the experience, you also receive a complimentary soda or soft drink, making this a well-rounded meal.

The value for money here is notable: at just $37.59 per person, the tour includes boat transfers, snorkeling gear, fishing equipment, and a hearty seafood meal. The reviews agree that it’s excellent value considering the personalized experience, fresh ingredients, and scenic setting.

Additional Activities and Atmosphere

The tour isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s about engaging with local traditions. You can try fishing from the pier or searching for scallops with supplied snorkeling equipment. The guides often take time to explain local life and answer questions, making the trip as educational as it is fun.

Reviewers mention the friendly, English-speaking guides who helped make the experience smooth and enjoyable. They’re also diligent about safety, providing life jackets on the boat and emphasizing weather conditions—activities are subject to change if the sea isn’t cooperating.

Weather Considerations

A few reviews note that weather can impact the experience. If the skies are overcast or the sea is rough, some activities may be limited or the trip could be canceled—something to keep in mind when planning. The operator’s policy offers a full refund if weather conditions prevent the tour from running.

Why This Tour Is a Great Value and Who Will Love It

This combo trip offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and delicious food, all at an accessible price point. The small group size ensures a friendly, intimate atmosphere, making it ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers craving an authentic look at Phu Quoc’s fishing community.

The opportunity to explore a genuine floating village and mingle with local families adds a layer of authenticity that many touristy alternatives miss. The seafood lunch, prepared from fresh local ingredients, is a highlight that elevates the overall value.

It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor activities—snorkeling, fishing, swimming—and cultural experiences. The flexibility on timing allows you to customize your day, avoiding crowded spots and ensuring a more personal experience.

The Sum Up

For those looking to see a different side of Phu Quoc—away from the luxury resorts and bustling beaches—this Starfish Beach and Floating Village Combo is an excellent choice. It combines scenic boat rides, hands-on activities, and authentic local life, all with a focus on safety and comfort.

The seafood lunch alone is worth the price, especially when paired with the chance to swim among starfish, explore a floating village, and learn about traditional fishing techniques. The tour’s small group size and knowledgeable guides make it a memorable, engaging experience that appeals to a wide range of travelers.

Whether you’re a family wanting a fun day out, a solo traveler seeking cultural insights, or a couple after a romantic scenic cruise, this experience offers genuine value and a taste of local life that’s hard to match.

FAQ

How flexible are the start times?
You can begin the tour anytime between 8 AM and 4 PM, which allows you to plan according to your schedule and avoid early crowds.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the activities like swimming, fishing, and snorkeling are family-friendly, especially with provided gear and safety measures.

What should I bring with me?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a hat. Since transportation to the meeting point isn’t included, consider arranging a taxi in advance.

What is included in the price?
The tour covers boat transfers, snorkeling and fishing gear, a seafood lunch with five dishes, and one free drink.

Will activities depend on weather?
Yes, activities are weather-dependent. Poor conditions might lead to cancellations or modifications for safety reasons.

How long does the entire experience last?
Approximately 5 hours, giving you enough time for a scenic boat ride, beach exploration, and a generous seafood lunch.

Is the experience suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely, the small group size and friendly guides make it easy for solo travelers to connect and enjoy the trip.

Are there any extra costs I should know about?
Personal purchases, additional snacks, or extras beyond the itinerary are not included, and transport to the meeting point is not covered.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of genuine local access, scenic views, fresh seafood, and flexible timing provides a well-rounded and authentic Phu Quoc experience.