Fly or Ferry to Con Dao? An A-Z Comparison
This is the first big question you’ll face when planning your trip to Con Dao. Each option has its own pros and cons, and the best choice depends entirely on your budget, timeframe, and travel style.
This article breaks down every factor to help you make the easiest decision.
1. The Time Factor: It’s the Total Journey, Not Just the Ride
This is the biggest difference.
- ✈️ By Plane:
- Flight time: ~1 hour.
- Total journey (from downtown HCMC): Approximately 3 – 4 hours, including 1 hour to get to Tan Son Nhat airport, 1 hour for check-in, 1 hour of flying, and 30 minutes to travel from Co Ong Airport to the town center.
- ⛴️ By Ferry (Example: HCMC via Vung Tau):
- Time at sea: ~4 hours.
- Total journey: Approximately 7 – 8 hours, including a 2-hour bus ride to Vung Tau, 1 hour for waiting and check-in at the port, 4 hours at sea, and 30 minutes to travel from Ben Dam Port to the town center.
Verdict: Flying saves you at least half a day of travel.
2. The Cost Breakdown: Is the Ferry Really That Much Cheaper?
Let’s calculate the total cost for an accurate picture.
- ✈️ By Plane:
- Main cost: Round-trip airfare (ranging from 2,500,000 – 5,000,000 VND depending on the season).
- Extra costs: Taxi to the airport.
- Total (estimated): ~3,000,000 – 5,500,000 VND per person.
- ⛴️ By Ferry (via Vung Tau):
- Main cost: Round-trip ferry ticket (~1,500,000 – 1,900,000 VND).
- Extra costs: Round-trip bus/limousine ticket to Vung Tau (~400,000 VND), taxi to the port.
- Total (estimated): ~2,000,000 – 2,500,000 VND per person.
Verdict: The ferry helps you save a significant amount, often cutting the cost nearly in half compared to flying.
3. Experience & Comfort
- ✈️ By Plane: Quick, convenient, and no worries about seasickness. You get a beautiful aerial view of Con Dao upon approach. However, the space is confined, and you must adhere to airport security procedures.
- ⛴️ By Ferry: A true adventure. Modern ferries are quite smooth, with air-conditioning and snack bars. You can go out on the deck to breathe the sea air and enjoy the view. However, the risk of seasickness is real if the sea is rough.
4. Luggage & Logistics
- ✈️ By Plane: Limited. Checked luggage is often restricted to 20-23kg. This can be an issue if you’re bringing your own personal dive gear.
- ⛴️ By Ferry: Very generous. You can bring large luggage without incurring significant extra fees, making it ideal for divers.
Conclusion: Which Option is for You?
- Choose the PLANE if:
- You are traveling with family, especially elderly members or young children.
- You are on a tight schedule.
- You suffer from severe seasickness.
- You prioritize convenience and comfort above all.
- Choose the FERRY if:
- You are traveling on a budget.
- You are a young traveler or in a group of friends looking for an adventure.
- You are carrying a lot of luggage or dive equipment.
- You don’t get seasick and want to enjoy the journey at sea.
➡️ Now that you’ve decided on your mode of transport, head back to our Ultimate Guide to learn more booking tips and prepare for your trip!
Dive Safety & Truly Experience Diving in Con Dao with Amadive!
🌐 Website: www.amadive.com.vn
📲 WhatsApp: +84392419241
📧 Email Reservation: book.amadive@gmail.com