Diving
in Phu Quoc

Yes. You do not need a diving certification for your first scuba experience. Before entering the water, an English-speaking instructor will explain how to use the equipment, breathe underwater, equalise pressure and communicate using hand signals. After the briefing, you will dive with the instructor on a calm coral reef. Warm water and shallow dive sites make Phu Quoc a comfortable place to try scuba diving for the first time.

There are two main diving areas in Phu Quoc: the northern part of the island and the An Thoi Archipelago in the south. In the north, diving trips often visit Hon Doi Moi, also known as Turtle Island. The southern area offers more islands, coral reefs and dive sites at different depths. The exact destination is selected according to the season, sea conditions, visibility and the experience level of the group.

The most comfortable diving season in Phu Quoc usually runs from October or November until April or May. During this period, the sea is generally calmer, rainfall is lower and conditions are more stable for trips to both the north and south of the island. The rainy season lasts approximately from May to October, when wind, waves and reduced visibility are more likely. Diving trips still operate whenever the weather and sea conditions allow boats to go out safely.

The price depends on the selected program. Two dives for certified divers cost from USD 90. A beginner program with two introductory dives costs from USD 100. Snorkeling or joining the boat as a non-diver costs approximately USD 35–50. Open Water and Advanced courses cost around USD 390–440, depending on the course level and whether you choose PADI or SSI certification.

The program includes an English-language briefing, a full set of scuba equipment, a wetsuit and two dives with an instructor. Before the first dive, you will learn the main safety rules and practise using the equipment. The instructor stays close throughout the experience and monitors your depth, air supply and comfort. The trip normally also includes the boat journey, lunch, fruit and drinking water.

Certified divers normally complete two dives during one boat trip. Dive sites are selected according to the weather, currents, visibility and the experience of the participants. The southern area offers a variety of reefs around the An Thoi Archipelago, while northern dive sites may be visited during the appropriate season. The price includes a dive guide, equipment, tanks, weights, wetsuit, boat trip, lunch and drinks.

Yes. Snorkeling in Phu Quoc is a good choice for guests who want to see coral reefs and tropical fish while staying at the surface. You can join friends or family members who are diving and spend the day on the boat near the islands. A mask, snorkel and fins are normally provided. Snorkeling is suitable for adults and children who feel comfortable in the water and want to explore the reefs without scuba training.

The underwater world of Phu Quoc is especially interesting for divers who enjoy smaller marine life. The reefs are home to soft and hard corals, nudibranchs, sea cucumbers, crabs, shrimp, sea urchins, moray eels and a variety of tropical reef fish. Cuttlefish may also be seen during certain seasons. Turtles and small rays are uncommon, so sightings cannot be guaranteed during a regular diving trip.

Northern Phu Quoc is best known for Turtle Island. The coral begins at a shallow depth, making the area suitable for beginners, relaxed dives and snorkeling. The southern route covers the An Thoi Archipelago, which has more islands and a wider variety of underwater landscapes. In the south, divers may explore coral gardens, rocky formations, small swim-throughs and sites suitable for both beginners and experienced divers.

Phu Quoc is better known for relaxed reef diving and macro life than for encounters with large marine animals. The island does not have well-known wreck dives, and sharks, large rays and turtles are rarely seen. Experienced divers can still enjoy the coral reefs around the southern islands, underwater walls, small swim-throughs and the search for unusual marine creatures. The route and maximum depth always depend on the diver’s certification and current sea conditions.

Bring swimwear, a towel, a hat and reef-safe sunscreen. Certified divers should also bring their certification card or its digital version. Alcohol should not be consumed before diving. Guests with heart or respiratory conditions, epilepsy, uncontrolled high blood pressure or other serious medical conditions may need medical clearance. Any health concerns must be discussed with the instructor before the trip.

After one dive, you should wait at least 12 hours before flying. After two or more dives, a certification course or several days of diving, you should allow at least 18 hours before boarding a flight. For this reason, it is better not to schedule diving on your final day in Phu Quoc. The safest option is to finish diving one day before departure and spend the remaining time relaxing on the beach or exploring the island.