The An Thoi archipelago, a chain of 15 islands off the southern tip of Phu Quoc, offers some of the best snorkeling and swimming in all of Vietnam. Day trips start from just $15 per person on a shared boat, and the crystal-clear water with visibility reaching 10-15 meters makes this a highlight of any Phu Quoc visit. Sabrina Rental at 16 Nguyen Du, Duong Dong, organizes private and group boat tours daily — message us on WhatsApp to book or ask questions.

The An Thoi islands sit about 10-15 km south of Phu Quoc's main island. The area was designated a Marine Protected Area in 2007, which has helped preserve its coral reefs and marine life. While tourism has grown significantly since the Hon Thom cable car opened in 2018, several islands remain relatively untouched and feel genuinely remote. This guide covers which islands to visit, what tours are available, what to expect underwater, and practical tips for making the most of your island hopping day.

An Thoi Islands Overview

The An Thoi archipelago consists of 15 islands and islets stretching across roughly 30 square kilometers of ocean. The largest is Hon Thom (Pineapple Island), now home to Sun World's entertainment complex and accessible by cable car. Most other islands remain undeveloped or have minimal infrastructure — a few beach bars, basic toilets, and wooden boat jetties.

The water temperature ranges from 26-30°C year-round, so you never need a wetsuit. Coral reefs surround most islands at depths of 2-8 meters, making snorkeling accessible even for beginners. Marine life includes clownfish, parrotfish, sea urchins, starfish, small reef sharks (harmless), and occasionally sea turtles near Hon Dua.

The dry season from November to April provides the best conditions — calm seas, clear water, and reliable sunshine. The wet season (June-October) brings rougher waters and some tour operators reduce schedules. May and November are transition months with generally good conditions but occasional rain.

Best Islands to Visit

Not all 15 islands are accessible or worth visiting on a typical day trip. Here are the standout destinations, ranked by overall experience:

  1. Hon Thom (Pineapple Island)

    The largest island in the archipelago and the only one with significant development. You can reach it by the famous Hon Thom cable car — the world's longest three-rope cable car at 7,899 meters, crossing the ocean at heights up to 170 meters. The island features Aquatopia water park, Sun World amusement rides, restaurants, and a long sandy beach. It is the most tourist-oriented island but worth visiting for the cable car ride alone. Allow 3-5 hours if you want to explore. Cable car tickets cost approximately 350,000 VND ($14) for adults round trip.

  2. Hon May Rut Trong (Inner May Rut)

    This small island is many visitors' favorite. A crescent of powder-white sand surrounded by turquoise shallow water, it feels like a postcard. Several floating bars and beach shacks sell seafood and drinks. Snorkeling is decent around the rocky edges. The island gets crowded between 11 AM and 2 PM when group tours arrive, so time your visit for early morning or late afternoon if possible. Sometimes called "Instagram Island" for obvious reasons.

  3. Hon May Rut Ngoai (Outer May Rut)

    Less visited than its inner sibling, Outer May Rut has better snorkeling around its southern reef. The beach is smaller but beautiful, and you will share it with far fewer people. Several boat tour operators skip this island entirely, so ask specifically when booking.

  4. Hon Gam Ghi

    A popular snorkeling stop with healthy coral formations at shallow depths (2-5 meters). The island itself is rocky with limited beach space, but the underwater scenery makes up for it. Schools of colorful reef fish are abundant here. Many tour boats anchor here for 30-45 minutes of snorkeling.

  5. Hon Mong Tay (Fingernail Island)

    A tiny, uninhabited island with a photogenic strip of sand and clear water. Once a hidden gem, it has become more popular in recent years. The snorkeling is average but the setting is stunning. Some tours include a barbecue lunch here on the beach. Technically closed to visitors at times for environmental recovery, so check current access status before booking.

  6. Hon Dua (Coconut Island)

    The best island for diving rather than snorkeling, with reef walls dropping to 15-20 meters. Sea turtles are occasionally spotted here. Not included on most budget snorkeling tours but available on private charters and diving trips.

Snorkeling and Diving Spots

The An Thoi archipelago is the primary snorkeling and diving destination for Phu Quoc. Here is what to expect:

Snorkeling

Most tour boats provide basic snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, fins) included in the tour price. The quality of rental equipment varies — if you are particular about fit, bring your own mask at minimum. The best snorkeling spots are around Hon Gam Ghi, the southern side of Hon May Rut Ngoai, and the rocky outcrops near Hon Dua.

You do not need to be a strong swimmer. Most snorkeling areas are sheltered from currents, and life jackets are provided. Water depth at snorkeling stops ranges from 1.5 to 6 meters. Visibility is typically 8-15 meters during dry season and 4-8 meters during wet season.

Expect to see hard and soft corals, anemones with clownfish, damselfish, wrasse, parrotfish, triggerfish, sea cucumbers, starfish, and the occasional moray eel peeking from a crevice. Touch nothing — coral damage has been a growing problem, and the marine park enforces fines for touching or standing on coral.

Diving

Several dive operators run trips to An Thoi from Duong Dong. Two-dive day trips typically cost $70-100 including equipment, boat, and lunch. Popular dive sites include Hon Dua (turtles, reef walls), Hon Gam Ghi (macro life, nudibranchs), and deeper sites around Hon Kim Quy. The diving is not world-class — visibility can be limited and coral bleaching has affected some areas — but it is enjoyable for recreational divers and excellent for beginners. Discover Scuba Diving courses (no certification required) are available for about $80-100.

Tour Options and Prices

Several types of boat tours operate in the An Thoi islands. Here is a comparison of what is available:

Tour Type Price per Person Duration Group Size Includes
Budget Group Tour $15-20 6-7 hours 20-40 people Lunch, snorkel gear, 3 island stops
Small Group Tour $25-35 6-7 hours 8-15 people Lunch, snorkel gear, 4 island stops, drinks
Private Speedboat (half day) $150-200 total 4 hours Up to 6 Custom route, snorkel gear, drinks
Private Speedboat (full day) $250-350 total 7-8 hours Up to 8 Custom route, lunch, snorkel, fishing
Sunset Squid Fishing $20-30 3-4 hours 10-20 people Fishing gear, light dinner, drinks
Two-Dive Day Trip $70-100 7-8 hours 6-12 people Equipment, 2 dives, lunch, guide

Sabrina Rental organizes both group and private boat tours daily. Our small group tours depart from An Thoi port at 8:30 AM and visit 4 islands including both May Rut islands and Hon Gam Ghi. Price is $25 per person including seafood lunch, snorkeling gear, and hotel pickup/drop-off in Duong Dong. Private speedboat charters start at $150 for a half day — you choose which islands to visit and how long to spend at each. Book through WhatsApp or visit us at 16 Nguyen Du.

Looking for a place to stay near the tour departure point? Check our accommodation options at Sabrina Homestay in Duong Dong, conveniently located for morning pickups.

What to Bring on an Island Hopping Tour

Proper preparation makes the difference between a good day and a great one. Pack these items:

  • Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+): Apply generously 30 minutes before the boat departs, and reapply after swimming. Regular sunscreen contains chemicals that damage coral — look for zinc oxide or titanium dioxide-based formulas.
  • Waterproof phone case or dry bag: Essential for protecting electronics. A waterproof phone case also lets you take underwater photos.
  • Towel: Some tours provide towels, but budget tours typically do not.
  • Cash: Bring 200,000-500,000 VND for drinks, snacks, and tips. Beach bars on the islands accept cash only.
  • Swimsuit and cover-up: Wear your swimsuit under clothes for easy changing on the boat.
  • Water shoes or sport sandals: Some beaches have rocky entry points. Flip-flops work for sandy beaches but water shoes are better for snorkeling areas.
  • Motion sickness medication: If you are prone to seasickness, take Dramamine or similar 30 minutes before departure. The boat ride can be bouncy, especially in the afternoon when waves pick up.
  • Snorkel mask (optional): If you have your own well-fitting mask, bring it. Rental masks often leak or fog.

Leave valuables at your hotel or homestay. Most boats have a small dry area for bags, but there is always a risk of splash or theft at busy island stops.

Best Time to Go Island Hopping

Timing matters significantly for your island hopping experience. Here is a month-by-month breakdown:

Peak Season (November — March)

The best conditions by far. Calm seas, clear water with 10-15 meter visibility, warm sunshine, and very little rain. This is also peak tourist season, so popular islands like May Rut get crowded midday. Book tours 1-2 days in advance during Christmas, New Year, and Tet (Vietnamese New Year, usually late January or February).

Shoulder Season (April — May, October)

Still good conditions with slightly less predictable weather. April can be hot (35°C+), which makes the water even more inviting. October sees the tail end of the wet season with occasional morning showers that usually clear by midday. Fewer tourists mean quieter islands and sometimes lower prices.

Wet Season (June — September)

Rougher seas can cause tour cancellations, especially in July and August when the southwest monsoon is strongest. When tours do run, visibility underwater drops to 3-6 meters. On calm days, however, you might have entire islands to yourself. Some operators offer discounted rates during this period. Always check conditions the day before booking.

Regardless of the season, morning departures (8-9 AM) are best. The sea is typically calmest before noon, and you arrive at islands before the crowds. Afternoon trips mean choppier water and more boats at popular stops.

Getting to An Thoi Port

Most island hopping tours depart from An Thoi port on the southern tip of Phu Quoc. From Duong Dong, it is approximately 25 km south — about 40 minutes by motorbike or car.

If you have rented a motorbike from Sabrina Rental, you can ride to An Thoi port yourself and park for free in the designated motorbike area. The route follows the main DT45 road south and is straightforward. Alternatively, most tour operators include hotel pickup and drop-off in Duong Dong — confirm this when booking.

The Hon Thom cable car station is located near An Thoi port. If you plan to visit Hon Thom by cable car instead of by boat, you can easily combine both in one day — cable car to Hon Thom in the morning, boat tour to other islands in the afternoon.

Combining Island Hopping with Other Activities

A day of island hopping pairs well with other things to do in Phu Quoc. Some popular combinations:

  • Morning island hop + evening night market: Return to Duong Dong by 4-5 PM, shower, and walk to the night market for fresh seafood dinner. The perfect Phu Quoc day.
  • Cable car + island hop: Take the first cable car to Hon Thom at 8:30 AM, spend 2-3 hours, then join an afternoon boat tour from An Thoi port.
  • Island hop + sunset squid fishing: Some operators offer combo tours that transition from daytime island hopping to evening squid fishing, returning to port after dark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I visit the An Thoi islands without a tour?

It is possible but impractical for most visitors. You can hire a private boat from An Thoi fishing pier, but negotiating with local fishermen requires some Vietnamese language skill, and the boats lack safety equipment and insurance. For most visitors, organized tours (group or private) are far easier, safer, and not much more expensive. A private speedboat charter through Sabrina Rental starts at $150 and gives you complete flexibility.

Is island hopping suitable for children?

Yes, for children age 4 and up. Life jackets are provided in all sizes. The beaches on May Rut have gentle, shallow entry points perfect for kids. Motion sickness can be an issue for younger children — give them medication before the boat ride and keep them on the upper deck where air flow helps. Most boats have shaded areas to escape the sun.

How many islands will I see on a typical tour?

Budget group tours typically visit 3 islands plus 1-2 snorkeling stops. Small group tours cover 4 islands. Private charters can visit 5-6 islands depending on how long you spend at each. Quality over quantity applies — spending an hour at two beautiful islands beats 20 minutes at five.

Do I need to know how to swim for snorkeling?

No. Life jackets keep you floating effortlessly, and you can snorkel while holding onto a float or the boat's ladder. Many non-swimmers enjoy snorkeling at An Thoi because the water is warm, calm, and clear. Boat crew members keep watch and will assist if you feel uncomfortable. That said, learning basic swimming before your trip will greatly enhance the experience.

What if my tour gets cancelled due to weather?

Reputable operators including Sabrina Rental offer full refunds or free rescheduling if tours are cancelled due to weather. Budget operators may try to push you to a different date without offering a refund — confirm the cancellation policy before booking. During wet season (June-September), have a backup plan for the day in case seas are too rough.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is An Thoi island hopping?

An Thoi island hopping is a day trip by boat to explore the An Thoi archipelago — 15 islands off the southern tip of Phu Quoc. Tours typically visit 3–4 islands, with stops for snorkeling, swimming, and lunch. The archipelago was designated a Marine Protected Area in 2007, preserving its coral reefs and marine life.

How much does an An Thoi tour cost?

Budget group tours start at $15–20 per person for a 6–7 hour trip including lunch and snorkel gear. Small group tours cost $25–35 and cover 4 islands with drinks included. Private speedboat charters run $150–200 for a half day or $250–350 for a full day, accommodating up to 6–8 people.

How long is a typical island-hopping day trip?

Most group tours last 6–7 hours. Boats depart An Thoi port around 8:30 AM and return by late afternoon. Private speedboat half-day charters take about 4 hours; full-day private charters run 7–8 hours. Morning departure is strongly recommended — seas are calmest before noon and islands are less crowded.

Which islands are worth visiting in the An Thoi archipelago?

The top stops are Hon May Rut Trong (powder-white sand, photogenic turquoise water), Hon Gam Ghi (best coral reefs and reef fish, 2–5 meter depths), Hon Mong Tay (tiny uninhabited island, stunning setting), and Hon Thom (the largest island, accessible by the world's longest three-rope cable car). Hon May Rut Ngoai has better snorkeling with fewer visitors.

Is An Thoi good for snorkeling?

Yes. Coral reefs surround most islands at 2–8 meter depths with water visibility of 8–15 meters during dry season (November–April). Expect clownfish, parrotfish, triggerfish, damselfish, sea cucumbers, starfish, and occasional moray eels. The best spots are Hon Gam Ghi, the southern reef of Hon May Rut Ngoai, and rocky outcrops near Hon Dua.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?

No — most tours include a mask, snorkel, and fins. However, rental equipment quality varies and masks can leak or fog. If fit matters to you, bring your own mask at minimum. A waterproof phone case or dry bag is also worth packing so you can take underwater photos without risking your device.

Is An Thoi safe for non-swimmers?

Yes. Life jackets are provided in all sizes, and most snorkeling areas are sheltered from strong currents. Water depth at snorkeling stops ranges from 1.5 to 6 meters. You can snorkel while holding a float or the boat's ladder. Boat crew members keep watch and assist anyone who feels uncomfortable in the water.

When is the best season for An Thoi island hopping?

November through March (peak dry season) offers the best conditions: calm seas, 10–15 meter underwater visibility, and reliable sunshine. April–May and October are shoulder months with slightly less predictable weather but fewer crowds. June–September is the wet season — rougher seas may cause cancellations, and underwater visibility drops to 3–6 meters.

Can I book directly with local fishermen for a cheaper tour?

It is possible to hire a private boat from An Thoi fishing pier, but it requires Vietnamese language skills to negotiate. Fishermen's boats typically lack standard safety equipment and insurance. Organized tours are not much more expensive and are significantly easier and safer for most visitors.

Are private boat charters worth it?

Private charters offer flexibility that group tours cannot: you choose which islands to visit, how long to stay at each, and can reach less-visited spots like Hon Dua (sea turtles, reef walls to 15–20 meters) and Hon May Rut Ngoai. For groups of 4–8 people, the per-person cost of a $150–350 charter is comparable to a small group tour.

What should I bring on an island-hopping day?

Essentials: reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+, zinc oxide or titanium dioxide formula — regular sunscreen damages coral), waterproof phone case, towel (budget tours don't provide one), 200,000–500,000 VND cash for beach bar drinks and tips, swimsuit, and water shoes for rocky entry points. Pack motion sickness medication if you are prone to seasickness — afternoon waves can be rough.

What tour operator should I choose for An Thoi island hopping?

Choose an operator that confirms its cancellation policy upfront (full refund or free reschedule if weather cancels the tour), specifies exactly which islands are included, and provides life jackets and snorkel gear. Sabrina Rental at 16 Nguyen Du, Duong Dong, runs daily group and private tours with hotel pickup included in the $25 per person price.