REVIEW · PHU QUOC
Phu Quoc: Discover Islands by speedboat & Hon Thom cable car
Book on GetYourGuide →Operated by Plan To Travel Services Trading And Travel Company Limited · Bookable on GetYourGuide
Phu Quoc by cable car is a serious treat. This one-day route mixes Hon Thom’s three-line sea-crossing cable car with island time in the An Thoi area, so you get both “wow from above” and “hands-on sea time.” I especially liked the covered-canopy speedboat setup (it keeps the ride more comfortable) and the strong photo support at Sunset Town. The main drawback to plan for is the day can feel tight if you’re hoping for extra free beach time or any bonus stops like a water park or Kiss Bridge-style photos.
What makes it feel worth the money is the “do it for you” structure: hotel pickup (in selected zones), guides who keep you moving, and gear handled for you—life jackets, snorkeling kit, and the SUP photo sessions. I also like that they build in multiple photographic moments rather than tossing you off the boat and wishing you luck.
You’ll have the best experience if you show up ready to swim and walk a bit, because the schedule runs from morning pickup around 7:20–8:10 AM to a return around 5:30 PM, with weather able to shift timings (especially for sea activities).
In This Review
- Key highlights worth caring about
- Cable car views: the reason this day starts early
- Hotel pickup and the pearl farm stop that sets the tone
- Speedboat island time: how the day stays comfortable
- Coral Park and the underwater walking option (not included)
- Hon May Rut Inside: swings, hammocks, and photo-support on the beach
- Transparent SUP sessions and what to expect from the photo package
- Lunch on the island: value comes from not having to manage it
- Sunset Town: the Roman Colosseum, Dragon Stairs, and real sunset light
- Price and value: $82 is the bargain if you like structure
- What to pack (and what matters most)
- Health and safety notes you should take seriously
- Should you book this Phu Quoc cable car + islands day?
- FAQ
- What time does pickup usually happen?
- Is snorkeling included, and what gear do I get?
- Is the underwater walking at Coral Park included?
- Does the tour include lunch?
- What about the Hon Thom cable car—do I ride it during this day?
- Are hotel pickups always free?
Key highlights worth caring about

- Hon Thom’s three-line sea-crossing cable car: a long stretch over open water plus big sunset potential.
- An Thoi island stops with structured photo moments: Roman Colosseum, Dragon Stairs, Clock Tower at Sunset Town.
- SUP photography with drone support: transparent SUP paddle time plus photo shoots at set points.
- Reef snorkeling included with basic gear: life jackets, snorkeling gear, and breathing tubes are part of the plan when conditions allow.
- Hon May Rut Inside photo spots: beach breaks plus an infinity swing and a white hammock spot.
- Pearl farm visit: a quick look at pearl production before you head to the port.
Cable car views: the reason this day starts early

If you only do one “big view” activity in Phu Quoc, the Hon Thom cable car is the one. This tour uses the sea-crossing version with three cable lines, which matters because you’re not just looking at a short stretch—you’re getting a sustained ride over water. That time in the air is also why the itinerary is built around getting you to the cable car before late afternoon chaos.
The cable car segment is timed to flow into the later sunset photography at Sunset Town. So you’re not just riding for transportation. You’re riding for a changing perspective: sea to shore, then toward the built photo landmarks where you’ll have light for pictures.
One practical note: cable car and sea-based activities can shift with weather. Plan to keep a calm head if the schedule moves a little. This is especially important if you care about optional add-ons on the island side—because the day’s structure is designed to fit a lot in one trip.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Phu Quoc.
Hotel pickup and the pearl farm stop that sets the tone

Pickup runs from about 7:20 to 8:10 AM depending on where you’re staying. You’ll meet your tour guide at the lobby and then head out by car to the first stop.
The pearl farming visit is quick, but it’s a nice contrast to the beach plan. You’ll see how pearls are produced, along with different pearl designs and sea-colored products. It also gives your day a bit of Vietnam texture beyond water activities—especially if you’ve been island-hopping already and want one land-based moment that still feels local.
Why it’s a smart inclusion: it’s early enough that you’re not rushing it in the heat. And it helps break up the logistics between pickup and reaching An Thoi Port for the speedboat portion.
Speedboat island time: how the day stays comfortable

Once you reach An Thoi Port, you switch to the covered-canopy speedboat (SB canoe style). The canopy is more than a comfort perk. It helps with sun and reduces that “full exposure” feeling during travel between islands.
The goal here is a full An Thoi archipelago experience: a few different stops rather than one long beach session. That structure is great if you like variety—reef time, photo spots, a swing/hammock moment, and lunch—without needing to plan transport yourself.
It’s also why timing matters. One negative theme that can pop up on days like this is people feeling the schedule is packed. If you want lots of unstructured downtime, you’ll need to accept that this tour is more “guided experience” than “choose-your-own-adventure day.”
Coral Park and the underwater walking option (not included)
In the Coral Park area, you’ll get access to reef-adjacent activities when conditions allow. The snorkeling portion is included, with life jackets, snorkeling gear, and breathing tubes provided. That makes it easier to try reef snorkeling even if you’re not an expert.
There’s also an underwater walking service at Coral Park, but that part is extra cost. So if your priority is truly the underwater walkway, factor in the additional payment and the time it may take. If you’re only after the fish-and-coral look, the included snorkeling equipment is the piece you’ll want to focus on.
A quick tip: bring water shoes. Reef areas can be unpredictable underfoot, and it’s much nicer when you’re not doing the barefoot shuffle.
Hon May Rut Inside: swings, hammocks, and photo-support on the beach
This is one of the most fun-feeling stops on the day. Hon May Rut Inside includes beach bathing time, plus more than one picture-perfect spot: an infinity swing and a white hammock area. Even if you don’t do every photo pose, these are the kinds of places that make it easy to grab a few real memories in less than 10 minutes.
There’s also drone filming tied to this section. If you like cinematic travel photos, this is where the operator’s media side becomes part of the product rather than an afterthought. The tour also offers SUP photography sessions, and this stop is built into that broader photo rhythm.
One consideration: if you hate waiting for photos or strict timing, this part may feel more structured than you want. The upside is that you don’t have to figure out angles, timing, or who’s going to take your camera shots—you’ll usually have someone set up to help.
Transparent SUP sessions and what to expect from the photo package

One of the standout additions for this tour is the transparent SUP paddle time. The plan includes complimentary photo shoots and drone footage at various points while you’re on or near the SUP.
What that means for you in real terms:
- You get more than just “board and paddle.” There’s an element of guided timing for photos.
- You’ll likely have moments where you’re asked to pose, smile, and hold still—because the drone needs clean angles.
- You’ll come away with more usable media than a typical island day.
If you’re traveling with a partner, the SUP photo setup can be a big win. If you’re solo, it’s also a relief—you’re not stuck asking random strangers to take action shots.
Lunch on the island: value comes from not having to manage it
Lunch is included as an 8-course meal, plus bottled water during the trip. On a one-day schedule, that’s a big part of the value: you’re not hunting for food between ports, and you’re not eating late because someone in your group wanted to browse shops first.
Will it taste like the best meal of your trip? That’s always a gamble with island touring. But the practical value is strong: it keeps your timing aligned with the afternoon cable car ride and Sunset Town photo hour.
If you’re vegetarian, tell the operator when booking so they can help with an adjusted meal.
Sunset Town: the Roman Colosseum, Dragon Stairs, and real sunset light
This is where the tour turns into a “make it count” photography hour. After the cable car segment, you transfer to Sunset Town for check-in and photo time, with specific landmark stops including:
- Roman Colosseum-style area
- Dragon Stairs
- Clock Tower
You also get free photo sessions here, which helps a lot if you’re not confident at spotting the best angles on the fly. And since this is aimed at sunset views, you’re not just looking for pretty backgrounds—you’re trying to catch the late-day light that makes photos pop.
Important for expectations: if you’re very time-sensitive about fitting in extras, this part is the reason the tour is structured the way it is. It’s not the place to get lost or wander off for long. Follow the guide and you’ll get the full set of photos and views the itinerary is built around.
Price and value: $82 is the bargain if you like structure
At around $82 per person for a full-day combo—pickup (selected areas), speedboat transportation, a pearl farm stop, included snorkeling gear, a multi-course lunch, Hon Thom cable car, SUP photo sessions, and multiple photography supports—the value depends on your style.
If you like:
- guided timing,
- photo help,
- included gear,
- and one-day “greatest hits” coverage,
…then $82 can feel like good value.
If you dislike:
- a packed schedule,
- photo-heavy moments,
- and losing flexibility for spontaneous detours,
…then it may feel expensive for what you personally get. One downside that can happen on rushed days is not having time for optional add-ons that you hoped would fit. For example, if a water-park stop or a Kiss Bridge-style photo mission is high on your list, you may find this kind of day doesn’t leave much extra room.
What to pack (and what matters most)
Bring the basics for a sea day, because you’ll switch between ports and beach time:
- swimwear and a change of clothes
- towel
- sun hat and sunglasses
- sunscreen
- water shoes
- beachwear basics
Also, don’t show up without a swimsuit. The schedule includes bathing time, and it’s easier if you’re ready rather than scrambling to improvise.
Health and safety notes you should take seriously
The tour emphasizes safety and hygiene, and it includes travel insurance. Reef time uses provided gear like life jackets and breathing tubes, and you’ll also have guides watching the flow.
That said, the operator lists several groups as not suitable, including people with altitude sickness, certain pre-existing medical conditions, kidney problems, and high blood pressure. It also notes wheelchair accessibility, but it simultaneously says it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments—so if you’re in that category, confirm details directly before booking.
Should you book this Phu Quoc cable car + islands day?
Book it if you want a one-day hit list: cable car views, An Thoi island variety, snorkeling gear handled for you, SUP photo time, and sunset landmark shots at Sunset Town. This is a good choice for couples who want photos and for first-timers who don’t want to fight logistics.
Skip or choose a lighter plan if you hate tight schedules, want lots of free time, or you have a must-do list beyond what the day already covers. In short: this tour works best when you’re happy to follow the rhythm and let the guides handle the hard parts.
FAQ
What time does pickup usually happen?
Pickup is typically from about 7:20 AM to 8:10 AM, depending on where you’re staying. You should wait in your hotel lobby about 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time.
Is snorkeling included, and what gear do I get?
Yes. Complimentary natural coral reef snorkeling is included when weather permits, and you’ll be provided with life jackets, snorkeling gear, and breathing tubes.
Is the underwater walking at Coral Park included?
No. The underwater walking service at the Coral Park area is listed as an additional fee.
Does the tour include lunch?
Yes. Lunch is included as an 8-course meal, plus bottled water during the trip.
What about the Hon Thom cable car—do I ride it during this day?
Yes. The itinerary includes the Hon Thom cable car experience, described as the world’s longest sea-crossing cable car with three lines.
Are hotel pickups always free?
Pickup is free for selected areas, but there are surcharges for specific locations. The listed examples are 50,000 VND per guest per way for Vinpearl and Gành Dầu, 30,000 VND per guest per way for Ông Lang and Cửa Cạn, and 100,000 VND per guest per way for Hàm Ninh and Cây Sao.

























