Cham Islands in a Day: Speedboat, Snorkel, and Village Life Off Hoi An
A fast, splashy escape from Hoi An—snorkel reefs, explore a fishing village, and eat fresh seafood in a single day.
The speedboat noses out of Cua Dai like it’s impatient to get to the coral. Spray cuts across the sunlight, and the mainland—low rice paddies, tile roofs, the silhouette of Hoi An’s tiled spires—shrinks until the sea becomes the only geography that matters. For the next six hours you are in a different cadence: waves that dare you to look away, a reef that holds secrets in bands of neon, and a small island community that moves deliberately between tides and tradition.
Trail Wisdom
Bring a reef-safe sunscreen
Protect your skin and the coral—choose a non-nano, reef-safe formula and reapply after swimming.
Arrive with a light stomach
Seas can be choppy; eat a small snack before boarding and consider motion-sickness meds if you’re prone to nausea.
Rent or bring a well-fitting snorkel mask
Good visibility and a solid mask make the difference between spotting parrotfish and fighting leaks; operators usually rent gear but supply quality varies.
Respect local life on the island
Stick to marked paths, ask before photographing people’s homes, and leave no trace at beach and village sites.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk to the old Hai Tang temple for quiet views and shade
- •Visit the ancient island well near the village and ask locals about fishing traditions
Wildlife
Green sea turtles, Parrotfish and colorful reef wrasse
Conservation Note
The marine park restricts certain fishing and encourages reef stewardship—use reef-safe products and avoid touching coral to minimize impact.
Cu Lao Cham has been a fishing and trading stop for centuries and was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2009 to protect its marine and cultural heritage.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: calm seas, snorkeling visibility
Challenges: occasional rain showers, early season wind
Spring (Mar–May) brings warming water and generally calm seas—great visibility for snorkeling but occasional showers.
summer
Best for: warm water, long daylight, beach time
Challenges: sun intensity, crowds on peak days
Summer (Jun–Aug) is peak season for swimming and sun; expect warm water and more visitors.
fall
Best for: fewer tourists, dramatic skies
Challenges: increasingly rough seas, possible monsoon swells
Fall (Sep–Nov) can deliver dramatic weather; the sea is less predictable and crossings may be rough.
winter
Best for: milder mainland temperatures, quieter piers
Challenges: choppy water, cooler wind-driven sea temperatures
Winter (Dec–Feb) is the quiet season—cooler, with a higher chance of choppy water and canceled crossings.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Mask & Snorkel (or rent on-site)Essential
A good seal and comfortable mouthpiece improve viewing time and reduce fatigue.
Reef-safe SunscreenEssential
Protects skin and fragile coral life—apply before boarding and after swims.
Water Shoes
Protect feet on rocky shorelines and provide purchase on slippery jetties.
Quick-dry Layer & Light WindbreakerEssential
Keeps you comfortable on windy crossings and dries quickly after swims.
Common Questions
How long is the boat ride from Hoi An to Cham Islands?
The speedboat crossing is typically 30–45 minutes depending on sea conditions and the exact departure pier near Cua Dai.
Is snorkeling gear provided?
Most operators provide basic snorkel masks and fins for rent as part of the tour; bringing your own mask ensures the best fit and comfort.
Can non-swimmers participate?
Yes—there are beach and village activities and boats carry life vests; snorkeling is optional and usually nearshore where staff can assist.
Is lunch included and what does it consist of?
A Vietnamese set menu is included—typically grilled seafood or fish, rice, vegetables and local condiments; operators can often accommodate simple dietary requests if notified in advance.
Are there restrooms and changing facilities on the island?
Basic restroom and rinse facilities exist near beach areas and eateries, but expect rudimentary conditions compared with the mainland.
Do I need a permit to visit Cham Islands?
There is a small marine park entrance fee or conservation contribution collected on-site in many cases; your operator usually handles it as part of the tour.
What to Pack
snorkel mask (better fit), reef-safe sunscreen (protects coral), quick-dry shirt (sun and spray protection), water shoes (rocky shores and jetties)
Did You Know
Cu Lao Cham was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2009, recognizing its unique mix of marine biodiversity and small-scale island communities.
Quick Travel Tips
Book morning departures for calmer seas; bring cash for small fees and snacks; wear quick-dry clothing and a hat; confirm pick-up point in Hoi An ahead of time
Local Flavor
After the tour, head to Hoi An’s Old Town for cao lầu noodles or a riverside seafood dinner; try a local beer (Bia Hoi or 333) and wander the lantern-lit streets for an evening that pairs well with your island day.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Da Nang International Airport (DAD), 30–45 minutes drive to Hoi An; Meeting point: Cua Dai/Cam An pier (short drive from Hoi An); Driving distance from Hoi An: 15–25 minutes to pier; Cell service: intermittent on islands; Permits/fees: small marine park/entrance fee often collected on-site; Duration: ~6 hours; Departure: morning recommended.
Sustainability Note
Cu Lao Cham is a protected marine area—use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid standing on coral, and pack out any trash to help preserve the biosphere reserve for locals and future visitors.