Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest island, is often celebrated for its palm-fringed beaches and seafood, but beneath its turquoise waters lies another world — one filled with coral gardens, tropical fish, and tranquil dive spots perfect for both scuba divers and freedivers. Whether you’re a first-time snorkeler looking to go deeper or a seasoned diver seeking new challenges, Phu Quoc offers something for everyone.

🐠 Why Dive in Phu Quoc?

• Calm waters: Most dive sites have gentle currents, ideal for beginners.

• Rich marine life: Colorful reef fish, blue-spotted rays, nudibranchs, and sometimes seahorses.

• Variety of sites: From shallow reefs for training to deeper spots for experienced divers.

• Warm water year-round: Average temperature is 27–30°C.

📍 Popular Diving Areas in Phu Quoc

1. North – Turtle Island (Hon Doi Moi)

• Depth: 5–12m

• Highlights: Healthy coral reefs, parrotfish, triggerfish, and occasional squid.

• Best for: Beginners and fun dives.

2. South – An Thoi Archipelago

• Depth: 5–20m

• Highlights: Larger variety of fish, hard and soft corals, better visibility during dry season.

• Best for: Intermediate divers and freedivers.

3. Nudibranch Garden

• Depth: 8–12m

• Highlights: Small creatures and macro life — a favorite for underwater photographers.

🤿 Scuba Diving in Phu Quoc

Best Time to Dive:

• November to May: Calm seas and best visibility.

• Rainy season (June–October) can be rougher in the south, but northern sites may still be diveable.

Popular Dive Operators:

• Many offer PADI or SSI certification courses, fun dives, and equipment rental.

• Half-day trips often include 2 dives, lunch, and hotel pickup.

Average Prices (per person):

• Discover Scuba Diving (no license): 1,500,000–1,800,000 VND

• Fun Dive (certified divers): 1,200,000–1,500,000 VND (2 dives)

• PADI Open Water Course: 8,000,000–9,000,000 VND (3–4 days)

🌬 Freediving in Phu Quoc

Freediving — diving without tanks — is growing in popularity thanks to Phu Quoc’s warm waters and relaxed atmosphere.

Why Try Freediving Here?

• Calm conditions perfect for breath-hold training.

• Clear water for equalization and depth practice.

• Courses available from beginner to advanced.

Popular Freediving Spots:

• Hon Dam Ngang (in An Thoi) – Stunning reef walls and clear water.

• Hon Roi – Shallow practice areas plus deeper sections.

Average Prices (per person):

• Intro Freediving Course: 1,800,000–2,500,000 VND

• AIDA/SSI Level 1 Course: 4,000,000–5,000,000 VND

• Training Sessions: 1,200,000–1,500,000 VND

🧳 Tips for Diving in Phu Quoc

1. Book ahead during peak season (Dec–Feb).

2. Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect corals.

3. Stay hydrated — tropical heat can cause dehydration faster.

4. Respect marine life — look, but don’t touch.

5. If you’re flying after diving, wait at least 18–24 hours before your flight.

📅 Sample Diving Day in Phu Quoc

• 7:30 AM – Hotel pickup & transfer to pier

• 8:30 AM – Boat departs to dive site

• 9:00 AM – First dive (reef exploration)

• 10:30 AM – Surface interval, snacks, and relaxation

• 11:00 AM – Second dive (macro photography or deeper wall)

• 12:30 PM – Lunch on the boat

• 1:30 PM – Return to pier and hotel drop-off

🌴 Final Thoughts

Whether you’re floating weightless over coral gardens on scuba or exploring the depths on a single breath, Phu Quoc’s underwater world is an experience that blends adventure and serenity. With warm waters, accessible sites, and professional dive centers, the island is a great choice for first-time divers, certification seekers, and seasoned ocean lovers alike.