Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is a bustling metropolis in the southern part of Vietnam. While the city itself is not a diving destination, its strategic location provides easy access to some of Vietnam's spectacular dive spots along the southeastern coastline. Here's a guide to get the best underwater experience when you're based in or around Ho Chi Minh.

Con Dao Islands: About a 45-minute flight from Ho Chi Minh, the Con Dao archipelago is a marine protected area. The islands are known for deep dives, strong currents, and a chance to see larger pelagic species, including rays and sharks.
Phu Quoc Island: Another flight away from the city, Phu Quoc offers some deeper dive sites suitable for advanced divers. The submerged rocks and walls here are home to a variety of marine life.

Nha Trang: While it's a bit of a journey from Ho Chi Minh, Nha Trang is one of Vietnam's premier diving destinations, known for its calm waters and abundant marine life. Sites like Moray Beach and Madonna Rock are perfect for novices.
Vung Tau: Closer to Ho Chi Minh, Vung Tau offers shallow dive sites ideal for beginners. While it doesn't have the biodiversity of some other spots, it's a convenient place to get underwater.

Vietnam's dive sites present an array of tropical marine life. Divers can expect to see colorful coral gardens, nudibranchs, moray eels, pufferfish, and even the occasional seahorse. In deeper waters, especially around Con Dao, there's a chance to encounter larger species like manta rays, barracudas, and black-tip reef sharks.

Vietnam's diving season runs primarily from April to October, with the best visibility between July and August. The water temperature averages between 79°F to 84°F. It's essential to check local conditions, especially if heading to Con Dao, as currents can be strong.

Dive costs in Vietnam are relatively affordable. A typical two-tank dive trip might range from $60 to $100, depending on the location and dive shop. Dive courses for beginners, such as the Open Water certification, can cost anywhere between $300 to $400.

While Ho Chi Minh City isn't directly a dive hotspot, its proximity to several of Vietnam's coastal treasures makes it a great base for diving enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned diver or just starting, the waters around southern Vietnam offer a captivating underwater world waiting to be explored.