Are you planning a trip to Phu Quoc and hearing everyone advise that you “absolutely must take an island tour”? But amid a forest of information about An Thoi Phu Quoc, you’re starting to feel confused: Should you do a 3-island or 4-island tour? Take the cable car or a speedboat? How do you avoid getting ripped off or disappointed because the scenery doesn’t match the photos online?
I understand, because I get dozens of similar questions from customers every day. This article is everything I’ve summarized after more than 10 years living and breathing South Island, helping you confidently plan your itinerary without having to Google anywhere else.
An Thoi Islands – Why is this a “specialty” you can’t miss?
Located south of the main island, the An Thoi Islands consist of 18 large and small islands, but in reality, only about 5 are inhabited (with around 3,000 residents mainly working in fishing and pearl farming).
The reason this area is so popular is thanks to its fairly pristine marine ecosystem, crystal-clear water where you can see straight to the bottom, and the most diverse natural coral reefs in Vietnam. If you just stay in Duong Dong town and don’t go down to An Thoi, consider that you’ve only seen “half of Phu Quoc”.
The “golden” time to explore An Thoi
An Thoi isn’t always gentle. To get those “virtual living” photos with water as blue as the Maldives, you need to note:
- November to April next year: This is the best time to visit the An Thoi Islands. The sea is calm, waves are gentle, speedboats run very smoothly, and the water is crystal clear.
- May to October: The rainy season, South waves start getting stronger. However, the advantage of An Thoi is that the islands are close together, so they block the wind quite well.
- Local tip: If you go during the rainy season, prioritize tours departing early from An Thoi Port Phu Quoc before 9 AM to avoid the thunderstorms that usually hit in the afternoon.
“Decoding” the hottest islands: Which one is most worth visiting?
1. Hon Thom – The “capital” of records
Hon Thom Phu Quoc is the largest and most developed island. The main highlight is the Aquatopia water park system and thrill rides.
- Experience: Riding the Hon Thom cable car (the world’s longest 3-rope sea-crossing cable car) is a “must-try” experience. From above, you will see a deeply satisfying panoramic view of the fishing fleets anchored at An Thoi port.
- Note: Check the Hon Thom cable car ticket prices regularly because Sun World often has combos including a lunch buffet. If you don’t like noise, you should only spend about half a day here.
- Reference link: Phu Quoc Cable Car Experience
2. Hon Mong Tay – The frequently misunderstood “fairy”
Hon Mong Tay Phu Quoc is famous for its leaning coconut trees and fine white sand.
- The truth: This island is very small. During peak season (January, February), this island is frequently overcrowded.
- Tip: If you take a private tour, ask to depart 30 minutes earlier than the large tour groups to enjoy the quiet space before the “crowd” rushes in.
3. Hon May Rut (Inner & Outer) – Resort paradise
This is where we usually let guests rest for lunch and eat. Hon May Rut Phu Quoc has a long beach, many swings, and pre-decorated photo corners.
- Warning: Food on the island is usually about 20-30% more expensive than on the mainland due to the cost of transporting fresh water and ingredients by boat. However, the seafood here is extremely fresh.
4. Hon Gam Ghi (Dam Ngang) – The coral kingdom
If you want to go snorkeling at An Thoi Phu Quoc, then Hon Gam Ghi Phu Quoc is the “boss”. This place has giant cabbage coral reefs right near the surface of the water.
- Safety note: The coral here is very vulnerable. Please do not trample or stand on the coral. We always remind guests to use life jackets to float on the water surface instead of standing on the bottom.
Comparison: Should you choose the 3-island or 4-island An Thoi Tour?
This is a “classic” question. Depending on your health and time, you should consider:
| Criteria | Phu Quoc 3-island Tour | An Thoi Phu Quoc 4-island Tour |
| Itinerary | Mong Tay, May Rut, Gam Ghi. | The 3 islands above + Hon Thom (Cable car). |
| Time | Leisurely, suitable for the elderly/young children. | Quite packed, lots of moving around, requires good physical fitness. |
| Tour price | Ranges from 600k – 800k VND/guest. | Ranges from 900k – 1,200k VND/guest (depending on cable car ticket). |
| Suitable for | People who like to chill, swim, and take photos. | People who want to explore comprehensively in 1 day. |
Critical perspective: If you have small children under 3 years old, I honestly advise taking the Phu Quoc 3-island tour by private speedboat. The 4-island group tour usually moves very fast, and small children easily get tired and fussy due to heatstroke.
Guide to getting to An Thoi Port
Most island tours depart from An Thoi Port Phu Quoc.
- From Duong Dong: It takes about 30-40 minutes by car. If you go on your own, you can rent a motorbike (150k VND/day) or take a taxi (about 300k – 400k VND/way).
- “Touts” warning: Near the port area, there are quite a few people soliciting you to buy cheap tour tickets. Stay alert and you should book in advance through reputable companies to have insurance and door-to-door shuttle service.
Preparation checklist so you won’t “regret” it
- Extreme sun protection: The sea sun on South Island is very harsh. Sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses are inseparable items.
- Waterproof phone pouch: To record footage of snorkeling.
- Seasickness medicine: You should take it 30 minutes before boarding the speedboat if you are not used to going out to sea.
- Swimwear & towels: The islands usually do not have towel rental services, you should bring them from your hotel.
If you still have plenty of time in the evening, don’t forget to try the Phu Quoc Squid Fishing Tour – a very exciting activity when night falls over the Gulf of Thailand.
FAQ – “Practical” questions from tourists
1. Do you get seasick on the speedboat?
2. Can children and the elderly go on the 4–island tour?
3. Do you need to know how to swim to go snorkeling?
4. Does the An Thoi Islands tour price include lunch?
5. Should you bring a drone?
6. What should you wear when taking an island tour?
I hope these “heartfelt” shares will help you have a truly memorable trip exploring An Thoi Phu Quoc. If this is your first time coming to the island, please refer to the article Phu Quoc Travel Experience From A-Z to get the most comprehensive overview.
Wishing you a wonderful vacation on the Pearl Island! If you need help with a specific itinerary, don’t hesitate to message us.
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