Cham Islands: Scuba Dive & Snorkel Tour with Local Guide

Summary

Scuba diving day trip to Cham Islands with coral reefs and seafood lunch

You’ll ride out from Hoi An by speedboat with a local guide before diving into the Cham Islands’ coral reefs—literally. Expect close-up encounters with marine life, plus time to relax on Bai Chong Beach over fresh seafood lunch. With all equipment included and easy logistics, it’s an easy way to experience both adventure and quiet moments you’ll remember long after the trip.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the sound — that high-pitched whine of the speedboat as we left Hoi An behind, salt spray hitting my face and everyone’s hair going wild. Our guide, Minh, handed out gear and grinned like he’d done this a thousand times (he probably has). The Cham Islands came into view all at once, green and kind of mysterious, and I caught myself grinning too. I guess I didn’t expect to feel nervous about scuba diving here — but there it was, that little flutter in my stomach.

Getting into the water was colder than I thought it would be. My mask fogged up for a second and Minh tapped my shoulder to remind me how to clear it. Underwater, everything slowed down. The coral wasn’t just colorful — it looked alive, swaying with the current. Fish darted everywhere (I recognized exactly none of them), and there was this moment where a school moved right past my hand. I could hear my own breathing echoing in my ears. It’s weird how quiet things get down there.

Back on the boat, someone passed around sweet pineapple slices while we peeled off wetsuits and compared notes — one guy swore he saw an octopus but nobody else did. Lunch at Bai Chong Beach tasted like the ocean itself: grilled fish, rice, something spicy that Minh called “just a little kick.” He laughed when I tried to say it in Vietnamese — probably butchered it completely. We had time to just sit under palm trees after that, toes in the sand, not really talking much because everyone seemed content to just listen to the waves for a bit.

I still think about that feeling of floating above the reef — weightless but sort of anchored by everything happening around me. If you’re looking for a day trip from Hoi An or want a real taste of Cu Lao Cham Marine Park (with actual locals showing you around), this is honestly worth it. Not every day feels like you’re somewhere new.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Scuba Diving and Island Relaxation

• Travel by speed boat
• Diving and snorkeling to see corals
• Relax on the island
• Enjoy landscape and food
• Join island activities

Top questions

Is this Cham Islands scuba diving tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, both beginners and certified divers can join this tour with guidance from professional instructors.

Does the tour include lunch?

Yes, lunch with local seafood is provided at Bai Chong Beach during the tour.

Are diving equipment and snorkeling gear included?

Full diving equipment is included for all participants.

How do we get to Cham Islands from Hoi An?

The group travels by speedboat from Hoi An to Cham Islands as part of the tour.

Is there a vegetarian meal option?

A vegetarian option is available if requested at booking.

Can infants join this scuba diving tour?

Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap; specialized seats are available.

Is public transportation nearby for this activity?

Yes, public transportation options are available near the departure point.

Are there any health restrictions?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip speedboat transfers from Hoi An, full use of professional diving equipment (or snorkeling gear if you prefer), guidance from certified instructors who know these waters well, snacks and bottled water on board, plus a fresh seafood lunch served right on Bai Chong Beach before heading back in the afternoon.