Island hopping is the signature day trip from Phu Quoc. Boats leave from the An Thoi harbour area in the south and head out among the small islands of the An Thoi archipelago, where the water is clearer, the beaches are quieter and the reefs are healthier than along the main coast. A typical three-island trip stops for snorkelling over coral, a swim from a sandy beach and a seafood or set lunch, and returns in the mid to late afternoon. The product linked here is a shared trip that covers three islands and includes hotel pickup in most versions. It suits almost everyone: families with children, couples, groups of friends and solo travellers who want to meet people. Snorkelling gear is normally provided and life jackets are mandatory, so you do not need to be a strong swimmer. Because the day is low effort and high reward, it is the activity most visitors tell friends to do first.
How the day runs
Pickup from your hotel in the morning is followed by a drive to the south coast, a safety briefing and boarding. The boat stops at two or three snorkelling spots and one beach, with time for swimming, photographs and relaxing. Lunch is often served on board or on a beach, and some tours add fruit, drinks or a short fishing demonstration.
Return transfers bring you back to your hotel in the late afternoon. Exact stops vary with the sea conditions and the operator, so treat any island names as examples rather than promises.
What to bring
Swimwear, a rash vest or light shirt, reef-safe sun cream, a hat, a towel and a waterproof phone pouch. A small bag of cash is useful for drinks, tips or optional extras. If you wear contact lenses or prescription glasses, consider a prescription mask. Do not touch or stand on coral, avoid feeding fish unless the crew says so and take rubbish back to the boat. Seasickness tablets are worth packing if you are prone to it, since the boat can be bouncy outside the sheltered coves.
Seasons and boat choice
The dry season from about November to April offers the calmest seas, best visibility and most reliable departures. From roughly May to October, rough seas can shorten or cancel trips, and you should keep a spare day and choose a ticket with clear change terms. A speedboat covers more islands in less time but is louder and bouncier, while a larger wooden boat is slower and more relaxed, better for young children.
Group size matters
A smaller group means more snorkelling time and less waiting, so check the maximum numbers. If you want to add a cable car ride, look at the combination trips described in the next entry rather than booking two separate days.
Choosing a good operator
Look for trips that state their maximum group size, that provide clean masks and snorkels in several sizes, and that have a crew member watching the water during every swim stop. A reliable boat has enough life jackets for everyone, shade for the hottest hours and a working toilet.
Ask whether the itinerary changes in rough weather and whether fees are refunded if the trip is cancelled for safety. Small details such as filtered drinking water, fresh fruit and tidy snorkel gear are good signs of a well-run business and usually matter more than a flashy boat.
What to expect
The experience
A full-day boat trip around the An Thoi islands with snorkelling stops, beach time and lunch.
Best time
The dry season from about November to April, with an early morning departure.
How long
Plan a full day, usually from morning pickup to late afternoon return.
Tips
Bring swimwear, reef-safe sun cream and a towel, wear the life jacket provided and take seasickness tablets if needed.
Quick picks
- Best for
- First-time visitors who want to see the clear water and small islands.
- Families
- A low-effort day with a life jacket for every child and calm beach stops.
- Couples
- Choose a smaller group or a sunset version for more privacy.
- Pair with
- The Hon Thom cable car or an evening at the night market.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
Do I need to be a good swimmer?+
No. Life jackets and snorkelling gear are provided, and crews guide beginners.
Is lunch included?+
Most trips include lunch or a set meal, but check the product details for what is covered and any dietary options.
Does the trip pick me up from my hotel?+
Many versions include hotel pickup from the main resort areas, so confirm yours when you book.
What happens in rough weather?+
Trips can be shortened, rerouted or cancelled for safety. Rough seas are more likely from roughly May to October.
Are the islands crowded?+
Popular stops can be busy at midday. A smaller group or an early start gives you quieter water.