Dive around Whale Island
Dive around Whale Island (Hòn Ông) offers sheltered coral reefs and clear water a short boat ride from Nha Trang in Khánh Hòa province. The site is prized for its colorful hard and soft corals, bommies, swim-throughs and abundant reef fish. Trips range from beginner-friendly guided dives and discovery dives to multi-tank outings for certified divers. Visibility commonly ranges from 10–25 m in the best months and currents are typically mild, making it an excellent option for both beginners and experienced divers.
Location
Whale Island (Hòn Ông) and nearby reef sites in Nha Trang Bay, Nha Trang, Vietnam
Duration
Half-day (4–5 hours) to full-day (7–8 hours) depending on number of dives and transfer time
Best Time to Visit
March to October (dry season); April–September often has the best visibility and calmest seas. Avoid the peak of the monsoon season (November–February) when conditions can be rough.
Pricing
Typical pricing per person (approximate):
- 2-tank dive trip: $70–$120 (≈1,600,000–3,000,000 VND)
- Single dive or guided discovery: $35–$60 (≈800,000–1,400,000 VND)
- Snorkel trip: $20–$40 (≈450,000–900,000 VND)
- Equipment rental: $10–$25 per item (BCD/regulator/wetsuit)
- Private charter: prices start around $200 and vary by boat size and inclusions Prices vary by operator, season and whether meals, park fees or transfers are included. Book with certified operators for the best safety and equipment standards.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Colorful hard and soft corals forming bommies and small pinnacles
Abundant reef fish: clownfish, butterflyfish, angelfish, parrotfish, groupers and schooling fusiliers
Occasional sightings of green turtles and small reef sharks (e.g., blacktip reef sharks)
Shallow swim-throughs and gentle slopes ideal for photo and video
Short boat ride from Nha Trang—convenient for day trips
Good sites for both beginner-friendly guided dives and rewarding advanced dives
Itinerary
Hotel pick-up and transfer to the dive operator/harbour
Operators typically collect guests across Nha Trang. Confirm pickup time the evening before.
Check-in, paperwork, gear fitting and dive briefing
Bring your certification card and logbook if you are a certified diver. First-time divers will receive a basic skills briefing.
Boat transfer to Whale Island (20–40 minutes)
Short ride—sea conditions usually calm but bring a light jacket for wind.
Dive 1 — Guided (45–60 minutes)
Typical depth range 3–18 m. Focus on coral bommies, fish life and photo opportunities.
Surface interval — snorkel, rest and light snacks/refreshments
Use this time to change tanks, hydrate and prepare for dive 2 or optional snorkeling.
Dive 2 — Guided or specialty dive (45–60 minutes)
Depth can be tailored to certification level. Some operators offer a drift or deeper reef dive for advanced divers.
Return to harbour and lunch / drop-off
Full-day trips may include an extra dive, lunch on the boat or at a local restaurant; half-day trips finish earlier.
Safety Requirements
Valid scuba certification card for certified dives (e.g., PADI, SSI) — open water minimum for most dives
Discover Scuba Dive options available for uncertified participants (age & health limits apply)
Minimum age typically 10–12 for discover dives and 12–15 for certified junior divers depending on agency
Medical declaration required; seek medical clearance if you have respiratory, cardiovascular or certain chronic conditions
No diving within 18–24 hours of a flight (follow operator/agency guidance)
Listen to briefings, respect depth and buddy limits, and follow the dive guide at all times
Carry dive insurance that covers scuba-related evacuation and treatment (recommended)
Tips
Bring your certification card and dive logbook if certified
Use reef-safe sunscreen (no oxybenzone/oxybenzone-free) or a protective long-sleeve rashguard to protect corals
Pack cash in Vietnamese đồng (VND) for park fees, tips and small purchases
If you get seasick, take motion-sickness medication before boarding and sit centrally on the boat
Bring a waterproof camera or GoPro; operators often offer underwater photo packages but check pricing ahead
Confirm included items with the operator (tanks, weights, surface marker buoy, meals) to avoid surprise fees
Book in advance during high season (June–August) to secure your desired slot
Respect the marine park rules: do not touch corals, do not chase or harass wildlife and dispose of trash responsibly
