Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its beautifully preserved Ancient Town and rich cultural history. Located on the central coast of Vietnam, it's not only a historical gem but also a gateway to some of the region's most underrated scuba diving spots. Here's a closer look at what diving in the Hoi An region offers.
Best Spots for Experienced Divers:
Cham Islands: Located just off the coast of Hoi An, the Cham Islands offer eight smaller islands, with Hon Lao being the largest. The islands provide various dive sites, some of which feature depths of over 30 meters, making them ideal for advanced divers. These deeper spots often have stronger currents and are home to larger marine species.
Gorgonian Wall: This site is well-suited for experienced divers, with depths reaching up to 28 meters. As the name suggests, it boasts a beautiful wall covered in gorgonian sea fans.
Best Spots for Beginners:
Hon Nhan: With a maximum depth of around 12 meters, this site offers sandy bottoms and rocky outcrops, perfect for novice divers and training.
Hon Mo: This site is relatively shallow and boasts a wide variety of hard and soft corals. It's a great spot for beginners to practice buoyancy and navigation.
Marine Life:
The marine life around Hoi An and the Cham Islands is quite diverse. Divers can encounter clownfish, parrotfish, triggerfish, and angel fish among the coral gardens. More experienced divers might spot moray eels, barracudas, and even small reef sharks in deeper waters. Macro enthusiasts will also delight in the various species of nudibranchs and shrimps.
Dive Conditions:
The best time to dive in Hoi An is from March to August when the conditions are most favorable, and visibility can reach up to 20 meters. Water temperatures are warm, averaging around 82°F. During the rest of the year, weather conditions can be unpredictable, and diving might be limited.
Cost:
Diving in Hoi An is generally affordable. A standard two-tank dive day trip, including equipment rental, can range from $70 to $120. For those looking to get certified, an Open Water Diver course typically costs between $350 to $450, depending on the dive center.
Hoi An, with its unique blend of culture and underwater beauty, offers divers a distinctive experience. From its historical streets to the vibrant marine life beneath the waves, it's a location that every travel enthusiast and diver should consider visiting.
