Diving
Explore underwater world of South China Sea
What it is and why
Underwater world of Vietnam is first of all soft corals, macro-life and incredible concentration of marine inhabitants at small depths. Diving industry here excellently developed: in Nha Trang, Da Nang and on Phu Quoc island work dozens of certified schools PADI, where can both pass basic training and receive certificate of professional level.
Each region unique: Con Dao island famous by its untouched nature, rare sea turtles and crystal clean water. Phu Quoc more suits for relaxed "fun-dives" with beginners, and islands near Nha Trang — ideal place for those who want to see variety of coral gardens in one trip.
Where to do it in Vietnam
Points on the map are real places where this activity can be done. Numbers in the list match the markers.
- Nha Trang islands (Mun, Mot)Khanh Hoa
Main dive center of country, protected marine reserve.
- Con Dao archipelagoBa Ria-Vung Tau
Sparsely populated place, unique opportunities to see turtles and sharks.
- An Thoi islands (Phu Quoc)Kien Giang
Ideal for beginners and calm rest.
- Cham islandsQuang Nam
UNESCO biosphere reserve, protected territory with excellent biodiversity.
Tips
- Always check presence of certificate at instructor and condition of equipment before diving.
- Plan diving for first half of day — after lunch sea often becomes more restless.
- Do not neglect insurance: ensure that your policy covers active sport and diving.
- Best visibility in Nha Trang and on Cham islands (near Hoi An) — from April to August.
- For quality photos take with you GoPro with red filter — colors at depth strongly distort.
Caution
- Forbidden to fly on plane within 18-24 hours after last dive due to risk of decompression.
- In rainy season (November–December) visibility under water in many places falls to 1-2 meters, dive centers can close.