Cham Island Snorkeling: A coral viewing experience not to be missed

When visiting Hoi An, many people immediately think of the traditional ancient villages. However, there is another undersea wonder that you can explore through Cham Island snorkeling.

Exploring the underwater wonders of Cham Island through snorkeling stands as a favored pursuit among both tourists and locals. This immersive activity provides a unique opportunity to witness the captivating marine beauty without the requirement of intricate diving gear or official certifications.

Let’s discover what diving to see coral entails, what makes it interesting, and some valuable experiences to have when visiting Cu Lao Cham!

Where is Cham Island? How to Get There?

Cham Island, or Cu Lao Cham in Vietnamese, is a group of eight small islands off the coast of Hoian, about 15 km from the coast of Hoi An. The islands are part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a Marine Protected Area, which means they are home to a rich biodiversity of coral reefs, fish, sea turtles, and other aquatic creatures.

You have three options for traveling to Cu Lao Cham:

Wooden Boat: The advantages of the wooden boat include its capacity to carry more people and even transport motorcycles to Cu Lao Cham. However, it has the drawback of taking quite a long time, approximately 3 hours, with only one trip to and from the island each day. You can catch the wooden boat at Hoi An Pier at 7:30 AM or at Cua Dai Pier at 8:30 AM.
Canoe: Taking about 15 minutes to reach Cu Lao Cham, the canoe is a quicker option. It is advisable to head to the pier between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM for a better chance of catching the canoe, as the number of tourists is higher during this time. If you’re late, you might find it challenging to join a group, as fewer tourists go later in the day.
Booking a package tour: Getting to Cham Island couldn’t be easier with the convenience of a hotel pick-up in Hoian. This tour goes beyond just snorkeling and offers a host of other exciting activities, such as visits to two villages, beaches, pagodas, and even a delicious seafood lunch. The cost for this full-day snorkeling tour on Cham Island is approximately 45 USD, which also includes the seafood lunch.

Popular Snorkeling Sites in Cham Islands:

Bai Xep: A premier snorkeling destination on Cham Island, Bai Xep is nestled on the east coast of Hon Lao, the archipelago’s largest island. With its expansive sandy shores, Bai Xep is an idyllic spot for both relaxation and sunbathing. The area’s shallow and effervescent coral reefs provide a captivating display of marine life, including an array of fish, starfish, sea urchins, and sea cucumbers. Given its placid waters and modest depths of 2 to 4 meters (6 to 13 feet), Bai Xep is an exceptional haven for novice snorkelers.
Bai Bac: On the northern coast of Hon Lao lies Bai Bac, another popular snorkeling locale on Cham Island. The beach here is characterized by its rocky and rugged terrain, offering a raw glimpse into nature’s splendor. The deep and intricate coral reefs at Bai Bac are a sanctuary for more exotic aquatic species such as clownfish, angelfish, butterflyfish, and parrotfish. With its more vigorous water conditions and depths that plunge up to 10 meters (33 feet), Bai Bac caters to the seasoned snorkeler.
Hon Tai: To the south of Hon Lao, Hon Tai is a smaller, more secluded isle that features a peaceful and untouched beach setting. Here, visitors can effortlessly slip away from the crowds and delve into the serene beauty of Hon Tai’s immaculate coral reef. The area is a habitat for rare and protected species like sea turtles, seahorses, and nudibranchs. For the intrepid snorkeler, Hon Tai presents a thrilling challenge with water conditions and depths that extend up to 15 meters (49 feet).
Cham Island Snorkeling Tour: This full-day excursion whisks you away to three or four exquisite snorkeling sites around Cham Island, contingent on the day’s weather and tidal patterns. The tour includes round-trip boat transportation, snorkeling gear, a savory lunch, and the expertise of an experienced guide. Priced at approximately 600,000 VND ($26) per person, the tour can be conveniently booked online or through various hotels and travel agencies. Catering to snorkelers of all skill levels, your guide will ensure you explore the most suitable locations while providing vital safety briefings.

What To Expect In Cham Island Snorkeling

Participating in the Cu Lao Cham snorkeling, you will experience the following:

Vivid Coral Reefs: Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters and discover vivid coral reefs bursting with life. The array of colors and diverse marine species create a captivating underwater world.
Exotic Marine Life: Encounter a variety of exotic marine life, from colorful fish of all shapes and sizes to unique creatures that call the coral gardens home.
Excellent Visibility: Cu Lao Cham is renowned for its excellent underwater visibility, creating an optimal environment for snorkelers.
Stunning Seabed Landscapes: Explore the captivating seabed landscapes with intriguing formations and structures. The ocean floor provides a dynamic and picturesque backdrop, adding to the allure of your snorkeling adventure.
Expert Guides: Many snorkeling tours offer experienced guides who have extensive knowledge about the best spots, safety precautions, and the marine life you’ll encounter. Their expertise enhances the overall snorkeling experience.

The current price for Cham Island snorkeling tickets:

Currently, the ticket price for Cham Island snorkeling is 150,000 VND ($6.5) per person.

When participating in this activity, you will receive a life jacket, snorkel, and protective glasses and be instructed on safety rules. During this activity, you will have the opportunity to dive into the water and move along the current to directly admire the stunning beauty of the vibrant and colorful coral reef.

Furthermore, there are two other types of scuba diving services at Cu Lao Cham. Accordingly, prices and services will be different for these two forms, specifically as follows:

Deep Diving: Price: 850.000 VND($34)

Tourists can observe coral reefs up close (around 5m depth) with a guide who teaches underwater signals. They are provided with a breathing tube, diving goggles, and an air tank.

Seabed Walking: Price: 950.000VND($38)

For those who want to touch the ocean floor, tourists are given a diving helmet weighing 30kg (which becomes 5kg underwater). They learn how to move underwater, hold onto the railing, and hand-feed fish while enjoying coral reefs.

When is the Best Time to Go Snorkeling in Cham Island?

From March to September, the ideal period for snorkeling in Cham Island occurs. During this time, the weather is typically sunny and dry, and the water remains calm and transparent.

The average water temperature hovers around 28°C (82°F), and visibility can extend up to 20 meters (65 feet). It’s important to note that this period coincides with the peak tourist season in Cham Island, resulting in larger crowds and potentially elevated prices.

What to Bring and Wear for Cham Island Snorkeling:

To make the most of your Cham Island snorkeling trip, you should bring and wear the following items:

Snorkeling equipment: Bring your own or rent from the boat or tour operator. Ensure it fits well and is in good condition. Rinse with fresh water after use and store in a dry place.
Swimwear and cover-ups: Wear comfortable swimwear and a cover-up (rash guard, wetsuit, or t-shirt) for sun and cold protection. Bring a change of clothes and a towel.
Water shoes or fins: Wear water shoes or fins to protect feet. Use socks or booties to prevent blisters. Avoid flip-flops or sandals.
Sun protection: Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Choose water-resistant, reef-safe sunscreen. Apply 30 minutes before snorkeling.

Cham Island is an ideal tourist destination for days when you want to temporarily escape the bustling city to experience the peaceful countryside. The Cham Island Snorkeling Tour promises even more exciting adventures that you can only truly appreciate once you set foot on this serene land. We hope you have a journey that exceeds all expectations.