Affordable Adventure: Scuba Diving Prices & Dive Centers in Phu Quoc

 

Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam, is rapidly becoming a hotspot for scuba diving enthusiasts looking for a budget-friendly yet beautiful tropical escape. Known for its calm seas, abundant macro life, and lovely soft coral gardens, Phu Quoc offers high-quality instruction and fun dives without the high price tag of many Southeast Asian destinations.

If you’re planning to dive here, understanding the local dive centers and typical costs is key to planning your perfect underwater vacation.

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Dive Centers: Your Gateway to Phu Quoc’s Depths

 

Phu Quoc has several reputable dive centers, primarily focused on offering PADI and SSI certifications. When choosing, look for operators that emphasize safety, small group sizes, and professionalism.

• PADI 5-Star Centers: Look for centers with this designation (like Vietnam Active Phu Quoc Diving Center) as they adhere to the highest international standards for training, safety, and customer service. They are excellent choices for both courses and fun dives.
• Focus on Local Expertise: The best centers know the seasonal changes and where to find the clearest water and most interesting marine life, whether in the calmer Northern sites (like Turtle Island) or the more diverse Southern Archipelago (An Thoi).
• Small Groups: Reputable operators prioritize small ratios (often 4 divers per instructor/guide maximum) to ensure personalized attention and safety, which is crucial for maximizing your experience.

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What Will Diving Cost in Phu Quoc?

 

The prices in Phu Quoc are generally lower than in major diving hubs like Thailand or the Philippines, making it a great place to get certified or complete multiple fun dives.

 

1. Fun Dives (Certified Divers)

 

This is the cost for certified divers joining a day trip, typically including two dives, gear rental, and lunch on the boat.

Activity	Typical Price Range (USD)	What’s Included
2 Tank Dive Trip	$80 – $100	Two dives, full equipment rental, boat transfer, lunch, water, and guide.
3 Tank Dive Trip	$100 – $130	Three dives, suitable for those wanting maximum bottom time.
Nitrox Fun Dive	Slightly higher, check with the center.	For certified Enriched Air Divers, often incurs a small surcharge per tank.

 

2. PADI & SSI Certification Courses

 

Phu Quoc is an excellent, cost-effective place to get your certification, especially if you complete the theory online beforehand (eLearning).

PADI/SSI Course	Typical Price Range (USD)	Duration
Discover Scuba Diving (DSD)	$60 – $80	Half-day (no certification), introductory dive experience.
Open Water Diver	$350 – $450	3–4 days (Includes theory, confined water, and 4 open water dives).
Advanced Open Water	$280 – $380	2 days (Includes 5 specialty adventure dives).
Rescue Diver	$350 – $480	3–4 days (A highly rewarding course focusing on accident prevention and management).
Enriched Air (Nitrox)	$150 – $200	1 day (Primarily theory, often the most popular specialty).

Note: These prices generally include your certification fees, equipment rental, boat trips, and professional instruction.

 

Insider Tips for Budget Diving

 

• Bring Your Own Gear: If you bring your own mask, fins, and wetsuit, some centers may offer a small discount (but gear rental is usually included in the package price).
• Dry Season is Best: Visit between November and April for the best visibility (up to 25 meters), which ensures you get the most value from your dives.
• Book Locally: While booking online ensures your spot, sometimes booking directly with a local dive shop upon arrival can offer slight savings or better package deals, especially if you plan multiple days of diving.

Phu Quoc offers an ideal blend of affordability and tropical diving beauty. Book your course or fun dives today and experience the incredible underwater charm of Vietnam’s Pearl Island!