Discover Saipan's vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life with expertly guided diving and snorkeling tours.
Saipan, the largest island in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, is a diver's and snorkeler's dream. Its waters teem with life, boasting crystal-clear visibility and a kaleidoscope of coral formations that make for an unparalleled underwater experience. From vibrant coral gardens to dramatic drop-offs and WWII shipwrecks, Saipan's marine environment offers something for every level of underwater enthusiast, whether you're a seasoned diver or taking your first dip with a snorkel. These tours are your gateway to exploring the island's most captivating aquatic sites. Imagine gliding over colorful reefs populated by a dazzling array of tropical fish, encountering graceful sea turtles, or even spotting larger pelagics. For divers, Saipan offers a variety of dive sites, from shallow reefs perfect for beginners to challenging walls and wreck dives that appeal to the more adventurous. Snorkelers will find accessible and breathtaking spots teeming with marine biodiversity just beneath the surface, often within easy reach of the shore or via a short boat ride. The warmth of the water and the consistent good visibility make it an ideal destination year-round for these aquatic explorations.
Discover our top picks for saipan diving & snorkeling tours in Saipan

Hobie Catamaran is perfect for Saipan Lagoon sailing because its draft is only 2 feet, it can go over shallow water to see more and it sails more level than monohull sail boat for comfort. I have been charting tourist and teaching sailing in Saipan Lagoon since 2018 so I know all the interesting points of it. Many feed backs are saying this is the most relex and fun activity they had.
Saipan's waters often provide over 30 meters (100 feet) of visibility, allowing for stunning underwater views of marine life and coral formations.
Encounter a rich variety of tropical fish, sea turtles, rays, and vibrant coral species thriving in the clear, warm Pacific waters.
Explore fascinating World War II wrecks, such as the SS Cormoran and the B-29 bomber, offering a unique historical dimension to diving.
Many dive and snorkel sites are easily accessible, catering to beginners and experienced explorers alike with shallow reefs and deeper walls.
With consistently warm water temperatures and generally calm seas, Saipan is an excellent diving and snorkeling destination throughout the year.
Tours are led by experienced, certified guides and dive instructors ensuring safety and maximizing your exploration opportunities.
These tours take you to Saipan's most beautiful and accessible snorkeling spots. Perfect for all skill levels, they offer a chance to see vibrant coral gardens and a multitude of colorful fish.
Ideal for those new to diving, these introductory experiences allow you to breathe underwater for the first time under the close supervision of a certified instructor. No prior experience is needed.
For certified divers, these tours explore Saipan's renowned dive sites, including walls, caverns, and historic shipwrecks. Multiple dives are often available.
Focusing on encountering specific marine creatures like sea turtles or rays, these tours often visit known feeding or resting grounds. They can be combined with snorkeling or diving.
Tours typically range from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the package and number of dives or snorkeling stops.
Saipan enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Tours operate in most weather conditions, though significant storms may cause cancellations.
Group sizes vary, but many tours aim for smaller groups for a more personalized experience, especially for diving.
Generally includes boat transportation, snorkel or dive gear rental, and guided instruction. Some packages may offer refreshments.
Meeting points are usually at local dive shops, marinas, or specific hotel pick-up locations. Details are provided upon booking.
Prices vary by tour type and duration. Snorkeling tours often start around $25-$50, while introductory dives are typically $100-$150, and certified dives can range from $70-$150 per dive.
Book your tour in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred dates and operators.
If you're prone to motion sickness, take precautions before boarding the boat.
Always listen carefully to your guide's safety briefing and instructions.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for protection when not in the water.
Consider bringing a waterproof camera to capture the stunning underwater scenery.
For divers, ensure your certification card is up-to-date and bring it with you.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water before and after your tour.
Be mindful of the marine environment; avoid touching corals or marine life to help preserve these delicate ecosystems.
A: Saipan offers great diving and snorkeling year-round due to its tropical climate. The dry season, generally from December to June, typically offers calmer seas and slightly better visibility, but the wet season can also be enjoyable with fewer crowds.
A: Not necessarily! Many operators offer 'Discover Scuba Diving' programs for beginners who want to try diving for the first time. Snorkeling tours require no certification at all.
A: Definitely bring your swimsuit, a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle. If you have your own mask or prescription goggles, you might prefer to bring those.
A: Saipan is renowned for its excellent water clarity. Visibility often exceeds 30 meters (100 feet), making it ideal for both diving and snorkeling and offering fantastic views of the underwater world.
A: While Saipan's waters are rich with marine life, encounters with dangerous animals are very rare. The most important thing is to respect all wildlife and avoid touching anything. Your guides will brief you on any potential considerations.
A: Yes, many tour operators offer private charters or customized tours. This can be a great option for families, small groups, or those seeking a more exclusive experience.
A: If you're prone to seasickness, it's a good idea to take medication beforehand. Many boats also offer ginger candies or other remedies. Staying hydrated and focusing on the horizon can also help.
A: Age restrictions vary by tour operator and activity. Generally, snorkeling tours are suitable for younger children (with supervision), while 'Discover Scuba' usually has a minimum age of 10. Certified diving tours have specific age requirements set by diving agencies.
Experience vibrant Chamorro culture and stunning Pacific beauty on Saipan's shores.
Discover the rich history of Saipan, from ancient traditions to WWII landmarks.
Enjoy world-class diving and snorkeling in Saipan's crystal-clear turquoise waters.
Immerse yourself in a unique blend of indigenous Chamorro and diverse influences.
Relax on pristine beaches and soak up the laid-back island lifestyle of Saipan.
Saipan offers an unforgettable tropical escape with adventure and tranquility combined.
Saipan enjoys a tropical marine climate, characterized by warm temperatures year-round with high humidity. The islands typically experience two main seasons: a dry season from December to May and a wet season from July to October. Even during the wet season, rainfall often comes in short, heavy bursts, and sunshine is still abundant.
The best months to visit Saipan are typically between December and May, aligning with the dry season. During this period, you'll experience less rainfall and more consistent sunshine, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach enjoyment.
The peak tourist season in Saipan generally falls during the dry season, from December through April. This period sees the highest number of visitors, resulting in fuller resorts and popular attractions, but also offers the most reliably pleasant weather for vacationing.
The off-season in Saipan typically coincides with the wet season, from June/July through November. While there's a higher chance of rain, it's often brief, and you can benefit from fewer crowds and potentially lower prices on accommodations and flights.
Explore comprehensive guides to plan your perfect trip, including food tours, cultural experiences, and more.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant heritage of the Mariana Islands with authentic Chamorro cultural experiences on Saipan.
Explore Saipan's vibrant food scene through guided tours that highlight local flavors, traditional dishes, and unique culinary experiences.
Discover Saipan's breathtaking islands and pristine beaches through curated tours and excursions.
Discover Saipan's lush landscapes and breathtaking coastal trails through guided nature and hiking adventures.
Discover Saipan's pivotal World War II past with expert-led tours exploring battle sites, memorials, and historical landmarks.
Getting around Saipan is relatively straightforward. Rental cars are the most convenient option for exploring at your own pace, offering flexibility to visit various attractions. Taxis are readily available, especially in tourist areas, but can be more expensive for longer distances. Public transportation is limited, with some local bus routes operating, though they may not cover all desired destinations. Many resorts also offer shuttle services. For shorter distances or exploring specific areas like Garapan, walking or renting a bicycle can be enjoyable and eco-friendly ways of getting around Saipan.
Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.
Find the perfect accommodation for your Saipan adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.
Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Trivago USA.