Cham Island Snorkeling: The Ultimate Guide

Many visitors come to Hoi An for sightseeing, photography, and cycling, unaware that Hoi An is also a hub for snorkeling. Located about 20 km from the mainland, Cham Island is a premier destination for Cham Island snorkeling enthusiasts. If you have a passion for snorkeling, this island is a must-visit. The following article will guide you through the best spots for snorkeling in Cham Island, Hoi An.

Cham Island offers a variety of activities, including camping, sea trekking, swimming, and snorkeling. Snorkeling here is quite affordable; for just around $10, you can purchase a ticket that includes a tour guide and complete equipment. From June to August, Cham Island is bustling with snorkelers, as this is the prime season for exploring its underwater wonders.

Where is Cham Island and How to Access It for Cham Island Snorkeling?

Hoi An boasts numerous beautiful beaches and islands, offering fantastic opportunities for a variety of water activities such as swimming, boat riding, diving, and, notably, snorkeling. The premier destination for Cham Island snorkeling is Cham Island (Cu Lao Cham), recently recognized by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve. This area is also designated as a Marine Protected Area (MPA) due to its significant marine habitats, including coral reefs and a diverse range of marine life.

Cham Island consists of eight small islands off the coast of Hoi An: Hòn Lao (Pearl), Hòn Dài (Long), Hòn Mồ (Tomb), Hòn Khô Mẹ, Hòn Khô Con (Dry), Hòn Lá (Leaf), Hòn Tai (Ear), and Hòn Ông (East Wind). The largest of these is Hòn Lao, known for its stunning beaches, excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities, and delectable seafood. However, with its increasing popularity, many tourists visit each year, which has led to some negative impacts on the coral reefs. It is crucial to exercise caution during your Cham Island snorkeling tour, ensuring you do not damage or remove any coral from the site.

To reach Cham Island for an exciting Cham Island snorkelen experience, you have several options:

• By public ferry: You can catch a ferry to Cham Island from An Hoi or Cua Dai Pier. This mode of transportation is economical but slower, with a fare of 150,000 VND per person each way.
• By speedboat: For the quickest access, take a speedboat to Cham Island, which takes just 30 minutes. Speedboats depart around 8:30-9:00 in the morning and 13:30 in the afternoon, with tickets priced at 300,000 VND per person each way.
• Booking a package tour: This is the most convenient option. Tours include hotel pick-up in Hoi An and offer additional activities beyond Cham Island snorkeling, such as visits to two villages, beaches, a pagoda, and a seafood lunch. A day tour for snorkeling in Cham Island costs around 45 USD and includes a seafood lunch.

Why should you experience Cham Island snorkeling?

Cham Island stands out as the premier destination for Cham Island snorkeling near Hoi An. With its consistently cool climate throughout the year, it offers an abundance of flora and fauna, providing snorkelers with breathtaking views of marine life. This island is ideal for witnessing a diverse array of fish species, stunning coral formations, and vibrant sea life.

The Cham Island snorkeling and diving season is not year-round. The optimal time for snorkeling trips is from March to September, with the best conditions typically occurring between June and August. During this period, the weather is warm and sunny, the water is clear, and the sea is calm, making it perfect for observing colorful corals and marine creatures.

It’s advisable to avoid traveling to Cham Island during the monsoon season from October to February. During these months, the weather can be harsh, with seasonal storms affecting the coast and creating unsuitable conditions for diving and snorkeling. When weather conditions deteriorate, boat access to the Cham Islands can be restricted, significantly limiting your opportunities for snorkeling.

Readmore: Hoi An Cycling Tour: Discover the Best Self-Guided Routes

Is Cham Island snorkeling expensive?

Cham Island offers a variety of activities such as camping, sea trekking, swimming, and notably, Cham Island snorkeling. This exhilarating experience is quite affordable, costing around just $10. For this price, you get a snorkeling ticket that includes a tour guide and full equipment, allowing you to explore the vibrant underwater world beneath the clear blue waters. This is an exceptional value for such an exciting activity on this picturesque island in Central Vietnam. From June to August, Cham Island is bustling with snorkelers, as this period offers the best conditions for Cham Island snorkeling. At $10, the cost is too good to miss—just give it a try and you won’t regret it.

Snorkeling is a sport accessible to everyone; there’s no need to be a skilled swimmer. The basics involve floating, breathing, and observing. If you can manage these, you’re ready to snorkel!

The activity requires minimal swimming. You simply float face-down on the water’s surface with your snorkel and mask, enjoying the stunning underwater views. For those who might not feel entirely confident in the water, we provide life jackets to keep you buoyant and secure. Our snorkeling excursions also include swimsuits that enhance buoyancy and allow you to relax on the surface. Snorkeling doesn’t require a swimming stroke or the use of your arms to propel yourself; you only need to kick your legs to navigate.

What should you prepare before embarking on Cham Island snorkeling?

Before embarking on Cham Island snorkeling, make sure to:

• Bring sunscreen or reef-safe sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the sun.
• Consider bringing your own mask and snorkel to ensure a proper fit, even if you’ve booked a snorkeling tour.
• Pack an underwater camera to capture footage of your underwater adventures.
• Purchase travel insurance before your trip to cover any unforeseen events.
• If you’re interested in an extended experience, consider booking a 2-day, 1-night Cham Island snorkeling trip and prepare for an overnight stay.

We hope this information enhances your Hoi An experience. Don’t miss out on this stunning destination from June to August, when the corals and marine life are truly spectacular. If you need assistance arranging a snorkeling tour on Cham Island, feel free to contact Danavitour.

Readmore: Experience scuba diving Hoi An and explore the coral reefs at Cham Island