Nha Trang Bay is the home of the Hon Mun Marine Protected Area, which is nearly 12000 ha of reef-filled waters rich in tropical fish. Most of the snorkelling in Nha Trang takes places in this region. Plus, the relatively shallow waters make a perfect destination for the complete novice wishing to learn to snorkel on the Vietnam holiday.
When to go
The best months to snorkel in Nha Trang is April to October (the most favourable months are July-August) which is the time of fair visibility and the chance to see the beautiful coral, as well as the tropical fish like the pufferfish, moray eels, box and butterfly. However, this area isn’t known for the more coveted features and creatures like wrecks, turtles or reef sharks.
On average, the visibility is in the region of 10 metres, but on the clearest days and during July and August the visibility can extend to 15-20 metres. The poorest time to visit the region for snorkelling is late December to March. Even though most of the Nha Trang dive centres stay open year-round, this really isn’t a time for learning.
You Can Expect
Mun Island is one of the best places to snorkel in Nha Trang on the Vietnam travel packages. It is a great to see plenty of colourful sea creature and amazing coral formations. Hon Mun has several high-rise cliffs that feature fascinating grottoes and caves. Plus, there is an opportunity to see flocks of sea swallows that use the caves for nesting.
Any tour organized by a well-respected Vietnam tour company makes it possible to explore the striking islands in Nha Trang, which is Mun and Mot. There is also time to get involved in a variety of beach activities or check out fishing villages.
For the traveller interested in the best possible snorkelling experience, it is worth investing a little extra to join one of the professional scuba diving boats. This is a lot better than hiring a low-cost island tour boat that has the basic snorkelling gear. The majority of the island tour boats won’t enter the Marine Protected Area because of the park fees (about $3 per person); this helps to keep their prices cheap.
Booking a snorkelling trip at a dedicated dive centre is more expensive at about $25-$75 per person, but the quality of the trip is at a higher standard. Most of the tours include everything needed for a fun day, such as transfer, snorkel gear, guide, lunch (fruits, vegetables, seafood’s, etc.), beach towel, bottled water, life-jackets, and entrance fees.
It is a long, packed day with plenty to do and see and lasting for up to 7 hours. Plus, the tours include a professional, friendly and informative guide. Once the snorkelling is finished for the day, there is usually time left to relax on a beach or swim in the warm waters. Plus, this tour is concluded with the return trip to the tourist’s hotel.
A snorkelling adventure on the Vietnam tour gives a change to completely get away from the hustle and bustle of Nha Trang and relax with a wide range of water sports and related activities.
