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Scuba diving in Phu Quoc: Top dive sites & tips for rookies

28/03/2025

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Scuba diving in Phu Quoc offers a remarkable underwater experience in Vietnam’s tropical paradise. Here, crystal-clear waters reveal vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine species. In this guide, we will walk you through the best sites, optimal seasons, and preparation tips.

1. Is Phu Quoc good for scuba diving?
2. Best time for scuba diving in Phu Quoc
3. Top spots for scuba diving in Phu Quoc Island
4. Tips for the ultimate Phu Quoc scuba diving experience

1. Is Phu Quoc good for scuba diving?

Phu Quoc in Kien Giang, Vietnam is an exceptional destination for scuba diving. Its sheltered waters create ideal conditions for multi-layered coral structures that thrive in remarkable diversity. These pristine conditions support nearly 400 species of hard coral, complemented by abundant soft coral varieties.

Enthusiasts of scuba diving in Phu Quoc can explore two distinct areas – the northern area, renowned for fascinating octopus encounters, and the southern area, where vibrant coral ecosystems have developed complex biological communities. Both offer unique underwater landscapes and marine life observations.

With exceptional visibility, accessible pricing (from 900,000 VND to 1,500,000 VND per pax), and dive operations catering to all levels of divers, from beginners to experts, Phu Quoc delivers unforgettable underwater adventures throughout its surrounding waters.

Phu Quoc is home to one of Vietnam’s most vibrant coral ecosystems (Source: Collected)

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2. Best time for scuba diving in Phu Quoc

Scuba diving in Phu Quoc is possible year-round, with each season offering distinct advantages. The dry season (November-April) provides ideal conditions with stable weather, calm seas, and great visibility. However, the southern area may experience limited visibility of 3-4 meters due to the currents.

Interestingly, the rainy season (May-October) offers excellent diving conditions, particularly during the early season, with visibility reaching 8-9 meters and pleasant sea temperatures. Despite rainfall, the underwater visibility often remains unaffected.

For optimal diving experiences, consult daily water condition forecasts rather than relying on seasonal generalizations, as factors like turbidity, currents, and tides vary significantly by location and can change daily across Phu Quoc’s diverse diving sites.

Weather in Phu Quoc: Full seasonal guide

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3. Top spots for scuba diving in Phu Quoc Island

Phu Quoc Island boasts numerous dive sites catering to various levels of divers, each offering unique underwater landscapes.

3.1. Gam Ghi Island

Gam Ghi Island (Dam Ngang) is a premier diving destination in Phu Quoc. Nestled within An Thoi Archipelago, it lies 14 km away from An Thoi Port. Phu Quoc scuba diving at this site showcases exceptional coral diversity with Brain, Table, Tube, Cabbage, Mushroom, Branching, and Massive varieties. Its shallow waters, averaging less than 2 meters deep, create ideal conditions for robust coral growth.

The accessible depth makes Gam Ghi Island perfect for divers of all levels while still delivering mesmerizing underwater landscapes. This has the island as an essential stop for scuba enthusiasts exploring Phu Quoc’s marine treasures.

Gam Ghi Island, one of the best places for Phu Quoc scuba diving (Source: Collected)

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3.2. Fingernail Island

Fingernail Island in southern Phu Quoc offers exceptional diving opportunities just 30-60 minutes away from An Thoi port. This site sits northeast of Gam Ghi Island and north of Bom Island.

This island features remarkably clear waters and thriving marine development, hosting one of the world’s most abundant coral ecosystems. Scuba diving in Phu Quoc at Fingernail Island is best experienced during early morning or late afternoon, when gentler sunlight enhances underwater visibility and showcases the vibrant colors of the coral.

The unique underwater rock formations at Fingernail Island create distinctive marine habitats (Source: Collected)

3.3. Doi Moi Island

Turtle Island (Doi Moi Island) sits in the northwest of Phu Quoc in Ganh Dau Commune. Named after the hawksbill turtles (doi moi) which once resided here, this site houses the island’s pristine coral ecosystem.

The dive site ranges from 1m to 8m deep, with most areas between 2m and 3m, making it accessible for all skill levels. During the dry season, the clear water showcases impressive hard corals, particularly Bushy and Table varieties spanning 2-3m in diameter.

After a two-hour boat ride from Duong Dong Ward, visitors may spot sea turtles, stingrays, and vibrant coral formations while exploring this underwater haven through sailing trips and sea-SUP excursions.

Doi Moi Island hosts Phu Quoc’s pristine coral ecosystem (Source: Collected)

3.4. May Rut Island

May Rut Island comprises two islands south of An Thoi Port: May Rut Trong and May Rut Ngoai, accessible via a 20-minute speedboat ride from the port.

May Rut Trong offers uncrowded snorkeling along its spacious long beach, while May Rut Ngoai hosts the popular Coral Park, home to over 250 species of hard and soft corals alongside diverse marine life. With crystal-clear waters, the ideal environmental conditions make it perfect for underwater exploration at various depths.

Beyond scuba diving in Phu Quoc at May Rut Ngoai, visitors can also enjoy sea walking, free diving, and snorkeling.

Phu Quoc coral park at May Rut Ngoai Island

Sea-walking, scuba diving, and free diving within May Rut Ngoai Coral Park (Source: Collected)

3.5. Thom Island

Thom Island, the largest of An Thoi Islands, ranks among Phu Quoc’s most beautiful diving destinations, with the Ky Lan Cape area being its premier spot. This site features distinctive greenish-blue waters with unique rock formations, creating a fascinating underwater landscape.

The shallow waters around Ky Lan Cape are particularly accessible – at just a depth of 1 meter. Visitors can observe vibrant corals with excellent visibility to the seabed. Access requires either a cable car ride over Thom Island followed by a boat ride to Ky Lan Cape, or a speedboat ride from An Thoi Port. This popular diving excursion costs approximately 650,000 VND per person.

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4. Tips for the ultimate Phu Quoc scuba diving experience

Scuba diving in Phu Quoc Island offers magnificent underwater experiences, but requires proper preparation and adherence to safety guidelines:

Ensure good health before diving – avoid diving if you have heart conditions, respiratory issues, or other serious medical conditions
Receive proper training from certified professionals who understand breathing techniques, pressure balancing, and emergency procedures
Check all the equipment thoroughly before diving, including oxygen tanks, regulators, masks, and depth gauges
Avoid diving during strong winds or rough seas, as these conditions reduce visibility and increase risks
Stop diving immediately if you experience dizziness, breathing difficulties, or nausea, and alert your guide
Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol before diving
Observe safety regulations that prohibit non-swimmers, children under 15, and those with certain medical conditions from participating
Respect local diving schedules and recommended depth limits for your level
Choose appropriate diving experiences based on your level: Beginner (2-6m depths with full supervision), Open Water (6-18m with guided independence), or Advanced (18-40m for experienced divers exploring shipwrecks and caves)
Compare the scuba diving in Phu Quoc price in advance, as it can vary between dive centers based on the service, equipment quality, and site accessibility
Never touch or disturb the coral reefs – they are fragile ecosystems easily damaged by human contact
Follow the guidance of professional instructors who know local dive sites, difficulty levels, and how to safely interact with marine life
Carry designated waste bags and never leave trash that could harm marine life

Understand the local regulations before going scuba diving in Phu Quoc (Source: Collected)

Scuba diving in Phu Quoc presents an unparalleled opportunity to explore Vietnam’s most vibrant marine ecosystems. With proper preparation, respect for safety guidelines, and selection of appropriate dive sites, you will discover a mesmerizing underwater world of colorful coral and marine life that makes this island a premier diving destination.

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These attractions, combined with the beachfront luxury accommodations of Vinpearl Phu Quoc, create a comprehensive experience balancing exploration and relaxation.