White sand beach and clear water on Phu Quoc island, Vietnam

Diving and snorkelling in Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc is Vietnam's winter dive spot: when the central coast is stormy, the southern island has calm seas and warm water around the An Thoi islands.

Photo: dronepicr, CC BY 2.0

By VietnamDiving.com editors · Updated

Phu Quoc is the place to dive and snorkel in Vietnam’s winter. The dry season runs roughly November to May, when the sea around the An Thoi islands off the south of the island is calm and the water is about 28–30°C. In the July–September rainy stretch visibility can drop to 5–10 m.

Our top pick: 4 Islands & 2 Reefs Snorkeling by Speedboat

Snorkel or scuba?

Snorkelling trips Scuba trips
Who Everyone, including non-swimmers with a vest Beginners (try dive) and certified divers
Where Shallow reefs in the An Thoi islands Reefs around the southern islands
Typical day Speedboat, 3–4 islands, 2 reef stops, lunch 1–2 dives plus island stop

The most-reviewed trips

Top rated

4 Islands & 2 Reefs Snorkeling by Speedboat

The classic Phu Quoc reef day with two snorkel stops. 4.8/5 from over 440 reviews.

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Most reviewed

Real Snorkel & Island Hopping (max 12)

Small speedboat groups for more time in the water. 4.3/5 from over 670 reviews.

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South Phu Quoc Pro Snorkeling (max 10)

Smaller group, more reef time in the southern islands.

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Why book online

  • Free cancellation on most tickets, usually up to 24 hours before
  • Reserved time slot: no queue at the ticket desk
  • Mobile ticket on your phone
  • Reviews from verified travelers

Smaller boats, better snorkelling. Trips capped at 10–12 people spend longer at each reef and avoid the busiest spots.

Hotels in Phu QuocStay in the south for the shortest transfer to the boats

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to dive in Phu Quoc?

During the dry season, roughly November to May, when the sea is calmer and visibility is better. In the July–September rainy months visibility can fall to 5–10 m.

Is Phu Quoc better for diving or snorkelling?

Most visitors snorkel: the An Thoi islands have shallow reefs that suit speedboat snorkel trips. Scuba is available too, mostly as beginner and fun dives.

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