Travel

How To Get To Con Dao island from Ho Chi Minh City 2026

How to Get to Con Dao island from Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): Updated 2026:

Traveling to Con Dao is now easier with 3 main options. Fastest: Direct flight (45 mins) via Vietnam Airlines or Vietjet. Newest: The Phu Quy Express high-speed boat departs directly from Ho Chi Minh City. Budget: Take a bus to Soc Trang (Tran De Port) for the Superdong/Con Dao Express boat, or to Vung Tau for the Con Dao Express. Note: Mai Linh Express and Helicopter services have ceased operations.

Con Dao is becoming more accessible than ever. You no longer need complicated transfers; now there are direct options to get you to paradise.

As professional divers who call Con Dao home, Amadive constantly updates travel routes to ensure you have the safest journey and arrive fresh for your Scuba Diving adventures.

1. Option 1: By Plane (Fastest & Best for Divers)

This remains the #1 choice to save energy.

Currently, flights from Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) to Con Dao (VCS) are operated by Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air.

  • Flight Time: Approx. 45 – 55 minutes.

  • Note: Helicopter services and Bamboo Airways flights are currently suspended.

Amadive Support: We can assist you in booking flights that align perfectly with your diving schedule, ensuring you follow safety rules regarding altitude after diving.

How to get to Con Dao island

2. Option 2: Direct Ferry to Con Dao from Saigon (New!)

This is the game-changer of 2026! You can now board a boat straight from Ho Chi Minh City.

  • Operator: Phu Quy Express

  • Departure: Directly from the port in Ho Chi Minh City.

  • Pros: No need for a bus transfer to other provinces.

  • Duration: Approx. 5 – 6 hours (depending on sea conditions).

How to get to Con Dao 2026

3. Option 3: Bus & Ferry to Con Dao Combo

If the direct boat doesn’t fit your schedule, traditional routes are still available. Important: Mai Linh Express and the Can Tho route are no longer operating.

3.1. Ferry to Con Dao from Vung Tau

  • Operator: Con Dao Express (Red Boat 36).

  • Route: Bus to Vung Tau -> Boat to Island.

  • Duration: Boat ride takes 3.5 – 4 hours.

>>> Read More

3.2. Ferry to Con Dao from Soc Trang (Tran De Port)

The shortest sea crossing, good for avoiding seasickness.

  • Operators: Superdong and Con Dao Express.

  • Route: Sleeper bus to Soc Trang -> Boat to Island.

  • Duration: Boat ride is only ~ 2.5 hours.

>>> Read More

4. Comparison Table (2025 Edition)

Criteria Flight (SGN – VCS) Direct Boat (from HCMC) Boat from Soc Trang
Operators Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Phu Quy Express Superdong, Con Dao Express
Total Time ~ 45 mins flight ~ 5 – 6 hours ~ 8 hours (Bus + Boat)
Comfort High Medium Low (Long bus ride)
Best For Families, Divers Adventure Seekers Budget Travelers

5. Amadive Full-Service Support

We understand that booking transport in a foreign country can be stressful. Amadive now supports guests with Flight and Boat Ticket bookings.

When booking a dive tour with us, simply request travel assistance. We will:

  1. Find the best connections.

  2. Ensure your itinerary respects the “No Fly Time” safety rule (18-24 hours rest after diving before flying).

6. The Best Time to Visit Con Dao island

Con Dao is beautiful year-round, but the ideal time is during the dry season, from November to April of the following year. During this time, the sea is calm, the weather is sunny, and the water is clear, perfect for all sightseeing activities. Especially, if you want to experience sea turtles laying eggs or Diving, visit between April and October.

>>>Read More

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is the Mai Linh boat from Can Tho still running?

No. Mai Linh Express has gone bankrupt/stopped operations, and the Can Tho route is closed. Please choose departure from Soc Trang, Vung Tau, or Ho Chi Minh City.

2. Does Amadive charge for booking tickets?

We offer ticket booking assistance as a value-added service for our diving guests to ensure a smooth experience.

3. When is the best time to take the boat to avoid seasickness?

The calmest sea conditions are from March to September. During these months, the ocean is generally smooth. From October to February, the “Northeast Monsoon” creates rough seas and big waves. If traveling during these windy months, Amadive highly recommends flying to avoid severe seasickness.

4. Is the direct boat from Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) tiring?

The trip takes about 5 to 6 hours. While the new boats are modern and comfortable, sitting for this long on open water can be exhausting for some, especially if the sea is choppy. If you prioritize comfort and time, a 45-minute flight is the better option.

5. Can I bring my diving equipment on the plane?

Yes, but space is limited.

  • Flights to Con Dao often use smaller aircraft (ATR-72). Overhead bins are small.

  • Regulators & Dive Computers: Pack in your carry-on to protect them.

  • BCD, Fins, Wetsuits: Must be checked in.

  • Dive Lights/Batteries: Must be carried in carry-on luggage (batteries removed) due to fire safety regulations.

6. What is the “No Fly Time” rule I should know?

As a safety standard for Scuba Diving, you must wait at least 18 to 24 hours after your last dive before flying to prevent Decompression Sickness (DCS). Amadive will help you plan your return flight or boat trip to ensure you meet this safety requirement strictly.

7. Are there Grab/Uber services on Con Dao Island?

Currently, ride-hailing apps like Grab or Uber are not popular or reliable on the island. The main transport methods are electric sightseeing cars, traditional taxis, or renting a motorbike. Amadive can arrange airport pick-up/drop-off for you upon request.