Private Snorkelling Boat Trip in South Phu Quoc

Your private speedboat from An Thoi

An Thoi is the fishing port at the southern tip of Phu Quoc and the gateway to the An Thoi archipelago, a group of small islands and reefs within a marine protected area. Your private speedboat leaves from the speedboat station here, and within twenty to thirty minutes you are among green islands and clear, warm water. Many visitors search for a private boat trip in Phu Quoc precisely to avoid the big tour boats that crowd the best-known beaches.

With a private trip, the boat and the driver's attention are for your party only. There is no waiting while others take photos, no fixed schedule set by a large group, and you decide when to move on. The driver knows these waters well and follows the agreed plan; he speaks limited English, and an English-speaking guide can be added on request for an extra cost.

Gam Ghi, Roi or Buom Island: the first reef

The first snorkelling spot is chosen on the day from three islands: Gam Ghi, Roi or Buom. The choice depends on the wind, the current and your swimming ability, and the driver picks the clearest, most sheltered side with healthy coral and plenty of fish. All three have shallow reefs close to shore, ideal for beginners and children who are confident in the water with a life jacket.

Expect branching and plate corals, sea urchins, giant clams and schools of damselfish, parrotfish and wrasse. Because the trip is private, you can stay as long as you like here; families often spend most of their time at this first reef. Please do not stand on the coral or touch marine life, and use a reef-safe sunscreen or a long-sleeved swim top.

Kim Quy Island: deeper snorkelling

The second stop, Kim Quy Island, is a hidden gem of southern Phu Quoc and a favourite with more experienced snorkellers. The water is deeper here, and the reef drops away into a colourful slope of hard and soft corals where larger fish gather. On calm days visibility can be excellent, and free divers can descend for a closer look.

Because of the depth, we recommend snorkelling here with a life jacket unless you are a strong swimmer or hold a diving licence. If anyone in your party prefers to stay on board, the driver can keep the boat close by. This deeper reef is the reason many guests say this is the best snorkelling in Phu Quoc they found, without the noise of the big tour boats.

Optional stop: May Rut Ngoai Island

If you have time and energy, you can add a third stop at May Rut Ngoai Island, known for its white sand and calm, shallow water. Here you can swim, relax on the beach and use the paid facilities: sun loungers, showers and changing rooms, as well as water sports such as parasailing and jet skis for those who want some speed.

These extras are not included and are paid directly on the island. The stop is entirely up to you; some guests prefer to return straight after the reefs, others like to end with an hour on the beach. On the way back you can also be dropped close to the Hon Thom cable car if you plan to continue to the island and its water park on your own.

Best time for a private boat trip in Phu Quoc

The best time to snorkel in southern Phu Quoc is the dry season from November to April, when the sea is calm and visibility at its best. From May to October the south-west monsoon brings more wind and rain, and some days are not suitable for small boats. This trip needs good weather; if conditions are unsafe, we offer you another date or a full refund.

Morning departures usually have the calmest water and softer light, while afternoon trips are warmer and quieter on the reefs. The trip lasts around two to three hours depending on how long you stay at each spot. Hotel transfers are not included, but we can arrange a private car to and from An Thoi if you wish.