Phu Quoc
Diving in Phu Quoc
Phu Quoc is the largest island in Vietnam, and offers many opportunities for scuba diving enthusiasts to explore its underwater dive sites. Here are some of the most famous dive sites in Phu Quoc:
Most Famous dive sites:
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Hon Dau Mai:
Known for its coral reefs and diverse marine life, this site is suitable for both beginners and experienced divers. You can encounter various coral species, nudibranchs, and colorful fish.
Fingernail Island (Hon Mong Tay):
This site is popular for its clear water and vibrant coral gardens. Divers can explore coral-covered slopes and encounter marine life such as reef sharks, rays, and seahorses.
Turtle Island (Hon Doi Moi):
Named for its population of sea turtles, this site offers the chance to spot these gentle creatures along with other marine life.
Staying on Phu Quoc Island
There are a few good options to stay on Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam. Below, I listed a few places relatively close to scuba diving shops and dive sites.
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Long Beach (Bai Truong):
Long Beach is the most popular and developed area on Phu Quoc Island, stretching along the western coast.
It's close to many dive shops and centers, offering a range of diving excursions to the southern and northern dive sites. The area also has plenty of restaurants, bars, and other amenities.
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Duong Dong Town:
The main town on Phu Quoc Island, located centrally on the west coast.
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It’s a short distance from Long Beach and offers additional amenities such as markets, restaurants, and nightlife. Several dive centers operate here.
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An Thoi Town:
Located at the southern tip of the island, near the An Thoi Archipelago.
This town is in close proximity to the An Thoi Archipelago, which is one of the best diving areas with clear waters and diverse marine life. There are fewer accommodation options, but the convenience for diving is a major plus.
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Ong Lang Beach:
Located slightly north of Duong Dong.
It offers a quieter, more relaxed environment compared to Long Beach, with easy access to dive sites in the north.
"A true paradise for foodies, travellers, hikers, spiritualists AND... scuba divers! Vietnam has got it all"
Additional Information
Visibility around Phu Quoc varies throughout the year but can be excellent, especially during the dry season (November to April). Visibility ranges from 10 to 30 meters, providing clear views of the underwater landscapes.
Several dive centers operate on Phu Quoc, offering a range of services such as guided dives, dive courses, and equipment rental. Some well-known dive centers on the island include Rainbow Divers and Vietnam Explorer.
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The best time for diving in Phu Quoc is generally during the dry season, from November to April, when the seas are calmer, and visibility is at its peak. However, diving is possible year-round, and some operators continue to offer services during the wet season.
Dive Courses: Whether you're a beginner or an experienced diver, dive centers on Phu Quoc provide courses such as Open Water Diver, Advanced Open Water Diver, and specialty courses.
How to get there?
By Air:
Flights:
From Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): There are frequent direct flights from Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) to Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC). The flight duration is about 1 hour.
From Hanoi: Direct flights from Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) to Phu Quoc take about 2 hours.Other Cities: There are also direct flights from Da Nang, Can Tho, and Rach Gia, among others.
By Sea/Ferry:
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From Ha Tien:
Superdong Ferry: Takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Phu Quoc Express: A high-speed ferry that also takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
From Rach Gia:
Superdong Ferry: Takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.
Phu Quoc Express: Similar travel time.
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Getting to Ha Tien or Rach Gia:
From Ho Chi Minh City: You can take a bus from Mien Tay Bus Station. The journey to Ha Tien takes about 7-8 hours, and to Rach Gia takes about 6-7 hours.
From Can Tho:
Buses are available to both Ha Tien and Rach Gia, with travel times of about 4-5 hours.
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Phu Quoc Island
Known for its clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, Phu Quoc is a lovely island in the Gulf of Thailand that offers some of the better scuba diving in Vietnam!