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Snorkeling In Central Vietnam - Costs And Practical Tips

Where is the best snorkeling in Southeast Asia ? Central Vietnam, with its crystal-clear waters and exceptional marine biodiversity, is a true paradise for snorkeling enthusiasts. Imagine yourself floating above colorful corals, surrounded by tropical fish in the turquoise bays of Nha Trang or Cu Lao Cham. This immersive activity is a must for any traveler seeking aquatic adventure. But how much does snorkeling in Central Vietnam cost ? Is it an activity accessible to all budgets? Prices vary based on several factors, and this article provides a detailed guide with reference rates, comparisons, and practical tips to plan your getaway without any financial surprises.

I. Is Central Vietnam good for snorkeling ?

Yes, without hesitation. The price of snorkeling in Central Vietnam remains very affordable compared to other destinations in Southeast Asia. Prices start around 300,000 VND for basic packages and can exceed 1,000,000 VND for more exclusive experiences. The key is not to choose solely the lowest rate, but to prioritize the quality of the sites, safety, and organization.

Which destination to choose?

Prices differ depending on the sites. Nearby and well-organized islands like Cu Lao Cham (Hoi An) are generally more affordable, while more preserved areas like Vinh Hy Bay in Ninh Thuan Province can be more expensive.

What type of tour to prioritize ?

• Group tour: the most economical solution, ideal for small budgets.

• Private tour: more expensive, but offering comfort, flexibility, and tranquility.

• Combined tour: often including lunch, additional islets, or ancillary activities (kayaking, fishing villages), with a good value for money.

What does the price include ?

• Basic services: provision of snorkeling equipment in Vietnam (mask, snorkel, life jacket), boat outing, and accompaniment by a local guide.

• Premium services: meals, drinks, transfers, underwater photos, insurance.

II. How much does snorkeling in Central Vietnam cost ?

The rates below are given as an indication and may change. Approximate conversion: 1 € ≈ 30,000 VND, 1 $ ≈ 26,000 VND.

1. Snorkeling at Cham Islands (Hoi An – Da Nang)

What is the best place to go snorkeling in Vietnam ? Located near the old town of Hoi An, Cu Lao Cham is a UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve and one of the best snorkeling spots in Central Vietnam, renowned for its ancient coral reefs and calm, clear waters.

Snorkeling prices at Cu Lao Cham:

• Full-day group tour (basic snorkeling): 400,000 – 600,000 VND/person (16–24 €). Includes boat transfer, guide, snorkeling equipment, and often lunch.

• Premium tour (speedboat, multiple spots like Bai Ong and Bai Bac, seafood lunch): 650,000 – 900,000 VND/person (26–36 €).

• Private tour: starting from 2,500,000 VND/group (about 100 €), ideal for a more flexible experience.

• Independent snorkeling on site: about 12 € (≈ 300,000 VND) with guide and full equipment, a very affordable rate to discover the underwater world.

Most excursions depart from Hoi An or Da Nang and allow exploration of renowned sites like Hon Nhon, Bai Xep, Bai Ong, and Bai Bim. The best period for snorkeling runs from March to August, with peak attendance between June and August.

2. Snorkeling at Quy Nhon (Ky Co – Eo Gio)

The sites of Ky Co and Eo Gio, near Quy Nhon, are renowned for their clear waters and still-preserved landscapes. At Ky Co Beach, the regular waves also make swimming enjoyable and fun.

Snorkeling tours in Quy Nhon are generally done during short guided outings of about 20 minutes, offered starting from 250,000 VND per person, with mask and life jacket included.

For more complete packages, indicative prices are:

• Half-day group tour: 300,000 – 450,000 VND/person (12–18 €).

• Full-day with lunch: 500,000 – 700,000 VND/person (20–28 €).

• Private tours are also available, with a decreasing rate per person depending on group size (about 1,250,000 to 1,550,000 VND/person). These prices remain indicative and may vary according to the season and provider.

3. Snorkeling in Nha Trang

Where is the best place to snorkel in Vietnam ? Nha Trang offers one of the widest ranges of snorkeling in Central Vietnam, suitable for all budgets and levels.

• Classic "4 islands" tour: 250,000 – 400,000 VND/person (10–16 €). Friendly atmosphere, but limited snorkeling time.

• Specialized snorkeling tour at Hon Mun: 500,000 – 800,000 VND/person (20–32 €, entry included), ideal for observing corals and fish.

• Private boat tour: starting from 1,500,000 VND/group (about 60 €), for more flexibility.

Most centers accept reservations by email, phone, or on-site, provided you book at least the day before. Reputable providers like Rainbow Divers, Vietnam Active, or Sailing Club Divers, all PADI-registered, generally provide snorkeling equipment in Vietnam (mask, snorkel, vest), as well as drinks, snacks, and often lunch. Departures take place around 8:00 AM; remember to protect yourself from the sun with a hat or rash guard.

4. Ninh Thuan and Binh Thuan

Located off the main tourist flows, Vinh Hy Bay (Ninh Thuan) and Phu Quy Island (Binh Thuan) are ideal for snorkeling in Vietnam in a natural and preserved setting. Their clear waters and reefs close to the shore offer a peaceful experience, away from the crowds.

In Vinh Hy, the corals are accessible from the coast, with calm seas from May to September. Phu Quy captivates with crystal-clear water around Hon Tranh and Ganh Hang, especially between December and June.

Snorkeling prices in Ninh Thuan and Binh Thuan:

• Full-day tour in small group (Vinh Hy, Ninh Thuan): 600,000 – 900,000 VND/person (24–36 €), generally including boat, guide, and basic equipment.

• Snorkeling on Phu Quy Island: 250,000 – 500,000 VND/person (10–20 €) for a guided outing near the coast; more complete excursions with boat and multiple spots can reach 700,000 – 1,000,000 VND/person.

• Private boat rental (Cu Lao Cau – Binh Thuan): 2,500,000 – 4,000,000 VND/boat/day (100–160 €, excluding meals), ideal for small groups wanting to explore freely.

III. How to pay less for your snorkeling in Central Vietnam?

To optimize your snorkeling budget in Central Vietnam, the choice of package and equipment is crucial. The equipment strategy allows you to reduce costs by comparing the equipment included in tours and alternative solutions.

Equipment included in the tour :

• Mask, snorkel, and sometimes fins included in the excursion price

• Simple and economical solution for a one-time outing

• No transport or logistics concerns

• Variable quality depending on operators: recommended check before departure

Daily equipment rental

• Rental from dive centers or port areas

• Often more comfortable and better-maintained gear

• Interesting for multiple days of independent snorkeling

• Additional cost to anticipate (about 5 to 15 EUR per day)

• Useful for those seeking where to rent good-quality snorkeling equipment in Vietnam

Practical tips for better value for money

• Compare precisely the services included in each tour

• Prioritize well-rated all-inclusive packages, especially for a first experience

• Politely negotiate an equipment upgrade, especially in low season

• Opt for long-term rental during extended stays in the same place

• Systematically test the mask's seal and snorkel's proper functioning

• Ask the right questions before booking (type of equipment, available sizes, corrective options)

By better understanding the price of snorkeling in Central Vietnam, you can select the experience best suited to your budget while prioritizing site quality and safety. Between crystal-clear waters, colorful reefs, and still-preserved areas, central Vietnam offers an unforgettable marine immersion. Dive in, explore, and leave with memorable souvenirs. With good preparation and the choice of a reliable travel agency in Vietnam like Autour Asia, your snorkeling outing can become one of the highlights of your stay.