North Phu Quoc (Ganh Dau) – Dive Site

12m Max

8-18m Vis

boat

Site Overview

North Phu Quoc around Ganh Dau offers a unique shallow diving experience centred on extensive seagrass meadows and sandy bays that support some of Vietnam's most unusual marine species encounters. The shallow depths of 3 to 12 metres create ideal conditions for seagrass growth, which in turn supports populations of blue-spotted stingrays, pipefish, and the extremely rare dugong. While dugong sightings are uncommon, the seagrass meadows of North Phu Quoc represent one of the few confirmed dugong habitats in Vietnamese waters, making every dive in this area a potential once-in-a-lifetime encounter. Bluespotted stingrays are regularly seen gliding across the sandy substrate, and pipefish are found among the seagrass blades and scattered coral fragments. Seahorses occasionally appear on the gorgonian branches and wire coral structures. Green turtles visit the seagrass beds to feed, adding to the megafauna encounter potential. The gentle conditions and shallow depths make this an ideal site for beginners, photographers, and naturalists who appreciate the ecological significance of seagrass habitats rather than seeking dramatic coral reef scenery. The remote northern location means fewer divers and a more pristine environment compared to the popular southern sites. The site offers an exceptional underwater experience with diverse marine habitats ranging from shallow coral gardens to deeper reef walls where larger pelagic species patrol the blue water. North Phu Quoc (Ganh Dau) represents one of Vietnam's finest diving destinations in the Phu Quoc region, combining healthy coral ecosystems with abundant tropical fish life and consistently warm water temperatures throughout the diving season. The well-preserved marine environment supports a remarkable biodiversity that includes both resident reef species and seasonal visitors, making every dive a unique encounter with Vietnam's rich underwater heritage. Whether you are exploring the colourful shallows or venturing deeper along the reef structure, the combination of excellent visibility, warm water, and diverse marine life creates an unforgettable diving experience suitable for beginner divers and beyond.

Dive Briefing

"Descend to the seagrass meadow at approximately 6 to 8 metres and begin a slow, systematic search pattern along the habitat transitions between seagrass, sand, and scattered coral. Blue-spotted stingrays are found gliding across open sand patches at all depths, requiring careful fin placement to avoid disturbance. Pipefish are most commonly found among the seagrass blades and near coral fragments where they anchor with their prehensile tails. Scan the deeper seagrass edges for the possibility of dugong sightings, though these rare marine mammals are extremely shy and sightings cannot be predicted. Green turtles may be encountered feeding on the seagrass, particularly during morning dives. Maintain excellent buoyancy to avoid disturbing the sediment, which reduces visibility in the shallow environment. The site is compact and easy to navigate, with the highest biodiversity concentrated along the seagrass-to-sand transition zones. Conclude with a shallow exploration of the bay at 3 to 5 metres before surfacing."