Cham Island Diving Center

Cham Island Diving Center is a dive shop based at 443 Cua Dai Street in Hoi An, running trips to the Cham Islands, the group of eight islands about 15 km off Cua Dai Beach that form part of a UNESCO world biosphere reserve and a marine protected area. It is a practical way to see the islands' reefs with a dedicated operator rather than on a general sightseeing boat.

The centre offers trips for every level. The snorkelling day trip suits non-divers and families, and quality snorkelling equipment is included. Beginner dives give people with no certification a first experience of breathing underwater with an instructor, fun dives are for certified divers, and the Bubblemaker programme introduces children to diving. For a longer stay, there is an overnight trip on the Cham Islands, and private tours can be arranged.

If you want to learn, the centre teaches a range of PADI courses, including PADI Open Water Diver, PADI Advanced, PADI Emergency First Response and PADI Rescue Diver. That makes it a good option for travellers spending several days in Hoi An who want to gain a qualification during their stay.

The reefs around the Cham Islands are home to hundreds of species of fish, along with coral, seaweeds and sea grasses, and the islands' residents have made a point of reducing plastic waste. The crossing from the mainland takes about 30 minutes by boat, so a day trip leaves plenty of time in the water and on the islands.

Diving here is seasonal. The centre states that it closes for the off-season from early October until mid-February and reopens for the following season, so check the website for current dates before you plan your trip. Booking is by phone, WhatsApp or email, using the contacts on the website, and the shop on Cua Dai Street is on the road between the old town and the beach.

The trips suit families, confident swimmers and certified divers. When you book, tell the centre whether you are certified, so it can match you to a fun dive, a beginner dive or a course.