REVIEW · PHU QUOC
Phu Quoc: 3 Islands Trip Snorkeling by Speed Boat
Book on GetYourGuide →Operated by Viet Nam Happy Travel · Bookable on GetYourGuide
Three islands, one reef-focused day. I like how the tour starts with clear-water snorkeling at Xuong Island (also known as Mong Tay), and I also like that you’re pointed toward the reef areas with coral diversity. One thing to keep in mind: snorkeling can feel hit-or-miss depending on what’s around that day, and the last island block may come with more waiting time than nonstop action.
This trip runs about 8.5 hours, with pickup between 8:00 and 8:30 from the Duong Dong ward/night market area (or you’ll coordinate if you’re outside that area). You’ll ride to An Thoi harbor by speed boat, snorkel at multiple stops, and then get lunch on the island before heading back around 17:00.
You get mask, snorkel, and fins (adult sizing), plus life jackets and a bottled water. If you’re bringing a lot of stuff, plan to travel light, because large bags aren’t allowed.
In This Review
- Key Highlights You’ll Feel on This Trip
- Phu Quoc 3 Islands by Speed Boat: Real Value at $42
- Duong Dong Pickup to An Thoi Harbor: The Day Starts Early
- Xuong Island (Mong Tay): Clear-Water Snorkeling Where You Start Seeing Coral
- Gam Ghi Island Reef Sites: Targeting Phu Quoc’s Coral Diversity
- May Rut Trong Island: Lunch, White Sand Lagoon, and Time to Reset
- Thom Island Sea Walker: Optional Fun, Extra Cost
- Snorkeling Gear, Life Jackets, and How to Make It Easier
- What You Eat on the Island: Lunch Menu and Dietary Swaps
- The One Friction Point: Snorkeling Expectations and the Final Island Pace
- Who This Trip Is Best For (and Who Might Want a Different Plan)
- Should You Book This 3-Island Snorkeling Tour?
- FAQ
- How long is the Phu Quoc 3 Islands snorkeling trip?
- What islands are visited on the tour?
- Where does pickup happen?
- Where is the meeting point and where do we return?
- Is lunch included?
- Is snorkeling equipment provided?
- Are fins available for children?
- Is an English-speaking guide provided?
- Can I add Sea walker near Thom Island?
- Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users or mobility impairments?
Key Highlights You’ll Feel on This Trip

- Xuong (Mong Tay) first stop for an early swim and coral spotting
- Gam Ghi reef sites focused on snorkeling where the corals are the main attraction
- May Rut Trong lunch on the island plus a white sand lagoon “chillout” time
- English-speaking guide with a schedule that stays organized across three islands
- Optional Sea walker near Thom Island on your own expense
Phu Quoc 3 Islands by Speed Boat: Real Value at $42

At about $42 per person, this is a solid “one-day splash and snorkel” deal for Phu Quoc. You’re not just paying for boat rides. You’re also paying for the full package: hotel pickup/drop-off in the Duong Dong area, round-trip car and speed boat transport to An Thoi, an English-speaking guide, snorkeling gear (mask/snorkel/fins), life jackets, and lunch on May Rut Trong.
If you’ve priced out boat-only tours in Phu Quoc, the value comes down to what’s included on top of the transport. Here, the guide and equipment matter, because snorkeling without support can get frustrating fast. And with lunch handled for you on the island, you avoid the usual scavenger hunt for a good meal on a tight day.
That said, snorkeling day quality depends on conditions and what the reef looks like that hour. Your best bet is to go with the mindset that you’re there for coral and general underwater life, not a guarantee of big, flashy fish.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Phu Quoc.
Duong Dong Pickup to An Thoi Harbor: The Day Starts Early

Pickup runs from 8:00 to 8:30 at the Duong Dong ward/night market area. If your hotel is outside Duong Dong, the operator asks you to contact them so they can arrange the right pickup point. This matters because a mismatch there can cut directly into your time on the water.
Once you’re collected, you’ll head to An Thoi harbor and board the speed boat. The trip is timed to give you snorkeling early, then keep moving through the three islands. That flow is good if you hate wasting the morning and want a full schedule without needing to plan anything.
Two practical tips before you go:
- Bring snack-free energy. You’ll have lunch later on May Rut Trong, so don’t skip breakfast.
- Keep your bag situation simple. The tour notes that you shouldn’t bring luggage or large bags.
Xuong Island (Mong Tay): Clear-Water Snorkeling Where You Start Seeing Coral

The first island stop is Xuong Island, and you may also hear it referenced as Mong Tay Island. This is where the tour starts in-water time: jump into the clear water for snorkeling and look for corals and aquatic life.
Why I like this as a first stop: it sets expectations quickly. If you’re unsure about your snorkeling comfort, you get a real trial run early rather than waiting until mid-day. If you are comfortable, this early time often feels calmer because you’re not rushed by the rest of the schedule yet.
What to focus on here:
- Watch the reef structures and coral growth rather than only chasing fish.
- Take it slow. The best underwater looking usually happens when you stop moving and let your eyes adjust.
Possible downside: the snorkel experience can vary. The underwater life you see might be more focused on coral detail than on lots of dramatic fish action.
Gam Ghi Island Reef Sites: Targeting Phu Quoc’s Coral Diversity

Next up is Gam Ghi Island, where the plan includes snorkeling at coral reef sites. This is the stop that’s most clearly tied to the tour’s reef promise: you’ll observe Phu Quoc’s largest coral reef area and the diversity of coral species.
In plain terms, this is the stop where you should expect the most “reef scenery” value. If your goal is photos of coral textures, shade lines, and the feel of an actual reef ecosystem, Gam Ghi is the one to treat as your priority.
A small reality check: coral diversity doesn’t always translate into big, colorful fish. Some reefs look incredible and still have fish that are less showy. You’ll get more from this stop if you go in looking for coral variety and underwater habitat, not only dramatic fish moments.
May Rut Trong Island: Lunch, White Sand Lagoon, and Time to Reset

After the snorkeling blocks, the tour lands on May Rut Trong Island. This stop includes check-in, lunch on the island, and time for island exploring. There’s also a white sand lagoon noted as a chillout zone, with activities at that spot.
This is where your day shifts from water-focused to more relaxed. If you’re warm-sun tired, this is the moment to take a breather, eat a real meal, and reset before the return trip.
What makes May Rut Trong useful for most people:
- Lunch is included, so you’re not stuck hunting food while your energy drops.
- You’ll have a slower option after being in the water and managing gear.
One consideration from the rhythm of the day: if you’re the kind of traveler who wants constant action, you might find the final island schedule less exciting. The schedule includes exploring and lagoon time, but it’s not a nonstop snorkeling loop. That doesn’t make it bad. It just changes the mood.
Thom Island Sea Walker: Optional Fun, Extra Cost

There’s also mention of Sea walker near Thom Island. The tour description is clear that this is at your own expense, and the service at Thom Island isn’t included.
So, plan for it like a bonus option, not part of the included package. If you’re curious, ask on the day how much it costs and what the timing looks like relative to the rest of the schedule. If you’re not into it, you can keep your energy for the included snorkeling and the lagoon/meal time.
Snorkeling Gear, Life Jackets, and How to Make It Easier

Included snorkeling equipment: mask, snorkel, and fins (and fins aren’t available in children sizes). You also get life jackets, which is a big comfort factor for many visitors.
Here’s how I’d approach the gear so you get fewer hassles:
- Make sure your mask fits comfortably before you get in. If it’s loose, you’ll spend the snorkeling time fighting it.
- Put your fins on fully and test your movement. A snug setup means less struggle once you’re in the water.
- Use the life jacket for stability and peace of mind. Even confident swimmers usually move better with good support in choppy conditions.
Also, bring the basics the tour lists:
- Swimwear
- Towel
- Sunscreen
- Comfortable clothes and shoes (you’ll likely be walking around harbor/island areas before and after water time)
What You Eat on the Island: Lunch Menu and Dietary Swaps

Lunch is included on May Rut Trong, and the menu is seafood-heavy, with flexibility. The tour lists these items:
- Steamed shrimp
- Braised or fried fish
- Sweet and sour squid
- Grilled clams with green onion
- Seafood hotpot
- Stir-fried morning glory with garlic
- Omelette
- Fresh fruit
- Steamed rice
The important detail is that ingredients can be adapted for vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free preferences, or allergies. That’s helpful, but I’d still do two things:
- Mention your needs clearly when you book.
- Be realistic about how complex strict dietary needs can be for an island lunch service with set meal components.
If you eat seafood, you’re in for a full plate rather than a snack box. And after snorkeling, that hot, cooked food helps you recover from sun and saltwater.
The One Friction Point: Snorkeling Expectations and the Final Island Pace

Based on the feedback pattern around this type of trip, the main “make or break” issue is what you expected from snorkeling. The tour is designed around coral viewing, and the reef is the headline. If your dream is seeing rare, large schools of fish, you might come away wanting more variety. On calmer days, coral and smaller underwater life can be plenty. On other days, it can feel more ordinary.
The other possible snag is pacing on the last island segment. There’s time for exploring and the white sand lagoon, plus optional Sea walker near Thom Island. If you’re hoping for nonstop water time, the final block can feel slower and more waiting-oriented. This isn’t something you can control, but you can manage your expectations by packing a simple attitude: treat the first snorkeling stops as your main event, and use May Rut Trong as your reset period.
Who This Trip Is Best For (and Who Might Want a Different Plan)
This tour fits you if:
- You want a structured, one-day snorkeling plan without organizing boats and gear yourself
- You enjoy coral-focused snorkeling and underwater looking more than chasing constant big-fish action
- You like having lunch handled, not squeezed into travel logistics
You might want to skip it if:
- You need accessibility support. The tour notes it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments and not suitable for wheelchair users.
- You expect a super flexible schedule with lots of extra stops. This is a set itinerary with specific snorkeling blocks and island time.
Also, keep an eye on fin sizing. Fins aren’t available in children sizes, which can limit the experience if you’re traveling as a family.
Should You Book This 3-Island Snorkeling Tour?
I’d book it if you want a straightforward Phu Quoc day that combines speed boat transport, multiple snorkeling stops, and an included island lunch. The $42 price makes sense because you get more than just the boat: you get equipment, guide support, and a full day plan from pickup near the night market to a return around 17:00.
I would hesitate only if your top priority is guaranteed wildlife spectacle, like lots of big fish on every minute of snorkeling. This tour is reef-first. If you’re okay enjoying coral textures and underwater life that may be subtle, you’ll likely have a fun day.
If you want my practical checklist before you commit:
- Plan your breakfast and keep your bag small.
- Bring sunscreen, swimwear, and a towel.
- Go in knowing the main value is coral snorkeling plus lunch and island downtime, not nonstop action.
FAQ
How long is the Phu Quoc 3 Islands snorkeling trip?
The total duration is about 8.5 hours.
What islands are visited on the tour?
The tour visits Xuong Island (Mong Tay), Gam Ghi Island, and May Rut Trong Island.
Where does pickup happen?
Pickup is from the Duong Dong ward/night market area. If you stay outside Duong Dong, you’re asked to contact the operator to arrange pickup.
Where is the meeting point and where do we return?
The tour starts with hotel pickup in the Duong Dong area and ends back at the same meeting point.
Is lunch included?
Yes. Lunch is included on May Rut Trong Island, and the menu can be adapted for vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free preferences, or allergies.
Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes. You get a snorkeling mask, snorkel, and fins, plus a life jacket.
Are fins available for children?
Fins are included, but fins are not available in children sizes.
Is an English-speaking guide provided?
Yes, the tour includes an English speaking guide.
Can I add Sea walker near Thom Island?
Sea walker near Thom Island is not included. It’s available at your own expense.
Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users or mobility impairments?
No. The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments and not suitable for wheelchair users.























