Phu Quoc 3 Islands Group Tour: Gam Ghi, Mong Tay, May Rut Island

Getting out on the water in Phu Quoc offers a chance to see some of the island’s most beautiful spots — if you pick the right tour. The Phu Quoc 3 Islands Group Tour takes you to three islands in the An Thoi archipelago, promising a day full of snorkeling, sunbathing, and scenic views. As reviews indicate, the experience can be hit or miss, but it remains a popular choice for travelers looking to combine adventure with relaxation.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is the organization and inclusiveness—with pickup, snorkeling gear, and a Vietnamese lunch all sorted for you. However, some guests found the overall experience a bit underwhelming, citing misleading photos and moments of boredom. So, if you’re after a straightforward day of tropical island hopping with decent food and some snorkeling, this might be for you — but be aware it isn’t perfect.

This tour tends to suit travelers who are flexible, love water activities, and are okay with a group setting. If you’re seeking a more curated or exclusive experience, you might want to explore other options. Still, for budget travelers or those wanting a taste of multiple islands without breaking the bank, it offers reasonable value.

Key Points

• Affordable Price Point: At about $30 per person, this tour provides access to multiple islands with gear and lunch included.
• Flexible Itinerary: The exact islands visited could change depending on weather conditions, adding an element of unpredictability.
• Snorkeling Highlights: Coral reefs and tropical fish are plentiful at Gam Ghi and May Rut islands, making snorkeling a consistent highlight.
• Limited Depth: Some reviews suggest the experience is somewhat superficial — mostly sunbathing and quick snorkel stops rather than extensive underwater exploration.
• Group Size & Guides: The tour caps at around 30 travelers, with guides who speak English and can take photos or videos.
• Mixed Experience: Reviews vary considerably, from “worst tour ever” to more favorable comments on scenery and food.

The Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point: Phu Quoc Island Pearl Culture and Pickup

The day kicks off early around 8:00 am with hotel pickup — a definite plus if you’re staying locally. The initial stop at a pearl culture farm provides a gentle introduction to the island’s local industry, and the free tour of the pearl farm lasts about an hour. While this isn’t the most exciting part of the day, it offers a glimpse into Phu Quoc’s pearl farming history and a chance to learn something off the beaten path.

May Rut Island: Coral Sanctuary and Undisturbed Beauty

By 9:30 am, you’re on a speedboat heading toward May Rut Island, home to the only coral sanctuary on Phu Quoc. Here, you’ll find a vibrant coral garden teeming with marine life, perfect for snorkeling. The coral reefs are described as diverse and colorful, providing a pleasant underwater experience for snorkelers.

However, some reviews mention that the pictures shown beforehand can be misleading, as they don’t always reflect the current state of the reefs or the actual scenery. The natural beauty remains, but don’t expect luxury amenities — this island is untouched and relatively undeveloped, which can be both refreshing and underwhelming depending on your expectations.

Gam Ghi Island: Pristine Beaches and Snorkeling

Next, the boat heads to Gam Ghi Island, renowned for its white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. This spot offers a chance to snorkel over coral reefs and observe colorful anemones and marine life. The island’s raw beauty — with rocks, coral formations, and lush greenery — is praised, and visitors can relax on the beach or take quick dips in the water.

One reviewer noted the island’s “pristine and pure” vibe, perfect for some peaceful downtime. But again, some guests felt the time allocated here was brief, and the main attraction was just lounging or taking quick photos.

Fingernail Island: Picturesque and Peaceful

The tour then moves to Fingernail Island, described as one of Phu Quoc’s most beautiful islands. Expect a white-sand beach and clear turquoise waters, ideal for relaxing and photos. The island’s seclusion makes it a peaceful retreat, perfect for those wanting to avoid crowds.

Optional Stops & Flexibility

The itinerary indicates that the islands visited may vary depending on weather conditions. Some of the other islands in the group include Mong Tay and May Rut Trong, and the tour operator is open to changing stops if needed. This flexibility is good or bad — it guarantees safety and comfort but can also lead to less predictable experiences.

Returning and Final Leisure

By around 4:15 pm, you’re heading back to the harbor. The tour wraps up at SPV Primavera and An Thoi station, with the final departure around 5:00 pm. Some guests appreciated the photo and video services provided, helping to preserve memories of their island day.

What Does the Tour Include?

The price of roughly $29.54 per person covers quite a bit—guided tours, snorkeling equipment, lunch, pickup and drop-off, and photo/video services. The lunch is described as delicious Vietnamese fare, with options for vegetarians or those with food allergies, which is a thoughtful touch.

The snorkeling gear includes diving glasses, snorkels, and life jackets, making underwater exploration accessible even for beginners. The guides are noted to be knowledgeable and helpful, often taking photos or editing videos for guests, which adds to the overall value.

The Not-So-Great Aspects

Reviews highlight some issues that travelers should consider. One guest called it the “worst tour ever,” citing boredom and dissatisfaction with the islands’ scenery. The complaint suggests that the tour might be more about ticking boxes than offering an immersive or memorable experience.

Another reviewer pointed out that some pictures are “misleading,” which can set false expectations about the scenery or activities. Plus, the limited time at each island means you won’t get extended snorkeling sessions or deep exploration.

Some participants felt the tour was too rushed, especially when the weather doesn’t cooperate or when trying to fit in multiple stops in a short day. The group size (up to 30 travelers) can also affect the intimacy and personalized experience, especially during busy seasons.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is most suitable for travelers on a budget who want to see a few islands without spending a fortune. It’s also ideal if you’re new to snorkeling or simply want a relaxing day on the water with minimal planning.

However, if you’re after more in-depth underwater experiences or exclusive island visits, you might find this tour lacking. It’s a good pick for those who enjoy an easygoing pace, group activities, and a taste of natural beauty without the frills.

Final Thoughts

The Phu Quoc 3 Islands Group Tour offers a straightforward way to explore several of the island’s scenic spots in one day. Its value-oriented price, included snorkeling gear, and Vietnamese lunch make it an accessible option for many travelers. The scenery on the islands, especially Gam Ghi and Fingernail, can be stunning, and snorkeling at the coral sanctuary adds a fun underwater dimension.

That said, it’s important to go in with realistic expectations. The experience can be quite superficial, with some guests feeling the stops are too brief or that the photos are misleading. The key lies in your priorities: if you’re content with a casual, group-led tour that provides good basic snorkeling and beach relaxation, this could be a good fit.

For travelers seeking a more curated or immersive experience, or aiming for deeper underwater exploration, it may be worth exploring other options. But for those on a budget and eager to tick off multiple islands, this tour delivers a decent, if not spectacular, day on the water.

FAQ

• What is included in the tour? It includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel, an English-speaking guide, snorkeling equipment, a Vietnamese lunch, and photo/video services.
• How long does the tour last? It’s approximately 8 hours, starting around 8:00 am and ending around 5:00 pm.
• Can I change the islands visited? Yes, the itinerary is flexible depending on weather conditions, and the tour can include different islands like Mong Tay or May Rut Trong.
• Is snorkeling equipment provided? Yes, diving glasses, snorkels, and life jackets are included.
• Is vegetarian or allergy-friendly food available? Yes, the lunch can accommodate vegetarians and those with food allergies — just inform the organizers in advance.
• What is the maximum group size? Up to 30 travelers, making it a fairly social experience.
• Is this tour suitable for all ages? It’s generally suitable for most ages but avoid if climbing or strenuous activities are required. The guides can take you to easier spots like lotus ponds.
• How are the guides? Guests describe guides as knowledgeable, helpful, and friendly, especially when it comes to taking photos or videos.

The Sum Up

The Phu Quoc 3 Islands Group Tour presents a practical way to see some of the best-island scenery in the area without a hefty price tag. Its well-organized structure, inclusive features, and the chance to snorkel over coral reefs make it attractive for first-time visitors or those wanting a simple, relaxing day on the water. The scenery on Gam Ghi and Fingernail islands can truly be beautiful, especially if you’re lucky with weather conditions.

However, it’s worth noting that the experience isn’t deeply immersive — some guests found it rushed and somewhat superficial, with misleading photos adding to mixed expectations. The tour works best for travelers seeking a budget-friendly, laid-back adventure rather than a luxury or adventure-packed expedition.

Overall, if you’re looking for a fun, easy, and affordable way to enjoy multiple islands and some snorkeling, this tour could be a good choice. Just keep your expectations in check and be prepared for a group experience that might not be as exclusive or detailed as some other options.

Whether you’re after a quick escape to tropical beaches or simply want to tick off the islands as part of your Phu Quoc adventure, this tour offers a decent, straightforward option at a modest price point.