How to get to Con Dao island 2025

1. Introduction to Con Dao: A Mystical and Alluring Pearl Island

This article is compiled to provide the most comprehensive and detailed handbook, helping tourists easily plan their journey to explore Con Dao, especially answering the core question: “How to get Con Dao island?”. With the development of tourism, the demand for information on how to travel to Con Dao is increasing. This guide will cover all popular means of transport, from air to sea, along with practical experiences to make your trip convenient and memorable. This archipelago attracts a diverse range of tourists, from nature lovers and sea exploration enthusiasts to those who want to learn about history and find a peaceful retreat. Therefore, transportation options are also designed to meet different needs and budgets.

1. How to Get to Con Dao by Air: Fast and Convenient

Traveling by air is the quickest and most convenient option to reach Con Dao, saving time and ensuring good health for your exploration journey.

1. Airlines and Popular Flight Routes to Con Dao (VCS)

Currently, Vietnam Airlines (through its subsidiary VASCO) is the main airline operating flights to Con Dao, landing at Con Dao Airport (VCS), the only airport on the island.2

• From Ho Chi Minh City (SGN): This is the main and most popular air gateway to Con Dao.

• Vietnam Airlines (VASCO): VASCO, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Vietnam Airlines, operates daily direct flights from Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) to Con Dao Airport (VCS). The estimated flight time is about 45 to 60 minutes.2

• VASCO (Vietnam Airlines): The airline also operates direct flights from Can Tho International Airport (VCA) to Con Dao (VCS) with a flight time of about 45 minutes. Can Tho is a major city in the Mekong Delta, about 170 km (about a 3-hour drive) from Ho Chi Minh City, providing another convenient departure point for tourists from this region.3

The operation of Vietnam Airlines (through VASCO) in the Con Dao flight market ensures flight availability, making it more flexible for passengers to arrange their schedules.3 Ho Chi Minh City remains the most important air transport hub to Con Dao, with high flight frequency and convenient connections.2 Additionally, flights from Can Tho also facilitate easier access to Con Dao for tourists from the Mekong Delta region.

1. How to Book Flights to Con Dao

Booking flights to Con Dao is quite easy nowadays with many channel options:

• Online Booking:

• Official Airline Website: This is the most accurate and reliable information channel. Passengers can visit the Vietnam Airlines website (www.vietnamairlines.com) 4 to search for flights, compare prices, and book tickets.
• Online Travel Agencies (OTAs): Platforms like Traveloka, Agoda, Booking.com also offer flight booking services to Con Dao, often with promotions and user-friendly interfaces.6

• Offline Booking:

• Airline Ticket Offices and Agencies: Passengers can go directly to Vietnam Airlines’ ticket offices or authorized agencies for consultation and booking assistance.3

• Assistance from Accommodations:

• Some high-end resorts in Con Dao, such as Six Senses Con Dao, may offer assistance in booking domestic flights for customers during the room reservation process, aiming to provide a seamless and convenient experience.3

Tips for Finding Good Flight Deals to Con Dao:

• Plan and Book Early: This is the most crucial factor. Especially if you plan to travel during the peak tourist season (usually from March to October), booking tickets 1 to 2 months in advance is essential to get good prices and ensure availability.1 Con Dao is a highly attractive destination, but the supply of flights and accommodation services is still limited, so being proactive will help avoid sold-out situations or inflated ticket prices.
• Choose Less Popular Flight Times: Flights in the early morning or late evening often have softer prices compared to prime flight times during the day.
• Monitor Promotions: Sign up for email notifications from the airline or follow their social media pages to stay updated on promotions and ticket discounts.
• Use Price Comparison Tools: OTA websites often have tools to compare prices between different airlines and flight dates, helping you easily find the optimal choice.6

The booking channels, from online to offline and even through resort assistance, offer flexibility for tourists when planning their trip to Con Dao.3

1. Airline Baggage Regulations for Con Dao Flights

Understanding the airline’s baggage regulations is essential to avoid unnecessary hassles and costs at the airport. These regulations can vary between fare classes.

• Vietnam Airlines (including VASCO):

• Carry-on Baggage:

• Economy Class: Usually allowed 12kg, including 01 main piece (maximum dimensions 56cm×36cm×23cm) and 01 small accessory (e.g., handbag, laptop, maximum dimensions 40cm×30cm×15cm).7
• Premium Economy and Business Class: Allowed 18kg, including 02 main pieces and 01 accessory.7

• Checked Baggage:

• Economy Class: On domestic routes in Vietnam, usually 01 piece of 23kg is free of charge.8
• Premium Economy and Business Class: On domestic routes in Vietnam, usually 01 piece of 32kg is free of charge.8
• The maximum dimensions for each piece of checked baggage should not exceed 158cm (total of three dimensions: length + width + height).8

• Important Note: Baggage regulations may change depending on the fare type, specific itinerary, and booking time. Passengers should check the detailed information on the Vietnam Airlines website or when booking tickets for the most accurate information.8 Information about free baggage allowance can be checked via the “Manage My Booking” section after the ticket has been issued.8

Vietnam Airlines having different baggage regulations, especially between fare classes, requires tourists to research thoroughly before their trip.7 For tourists carrying many personal items, diving equipment, or planning to buy souvenirs, the baggage policy can become an important factor in deciding which airline and fare class to choose. Not understanding the regulations clearly can lead to paying significant extra fees at the airport, affecting the overall budget of the trip.

III. How to Get to Con Dao by High-Speed Ferry: Experience Sea Views and Save Costs

Besides air travel, high-speed ferries are another popular option to reach Con Dao, offering a unique sea-viewing experience and often at a lower cost than plane tickets. The main ferry routes depart from Vung Tau, Soc Trang, and recently from Ho Chi Minh City.

1. From Vung Tau to Con Dao

Vung Tau has long been one of the traditional sea gateways for tourists to access Con Dao.

• Ferry Companies and Departure Ports:

• Phu Quoc Express (Con Dao Express): This is a large and modern ferry company, notable for vessels like Thang Long (capacity over 1000 passengers, modernly equipped) and Con Dao Express 36.10
• Main Departure Port: Cau Da Port, Vung Tau.11 Some sources also mention Express Ship Harbour.10 Tourists should reconfirm the exact port information when booking tickets.

• How to Get from Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau Port:
  To reach Vung Tau port and board the ferry to Con Dao, tourists from HCMC have several transportation options:

• Bus/Limousine: This is a popular and convenient means. Reputable companies like Phuong Trang (Futa Bus), Hoa Mai, Hai Van Limousine, Anh Quoc Limousine offer many trips daily. Travel time is about 2 to 3 hours, with ticket prices ranging from approximately 110,000 VND to 260,000 VND/person, depending on the type of vehicle and company.11
• Motorbike/Private Car: Suitable for those who prefer proactivity and want to combine sightseeing along the way.
• Hydrofoil: Previously an option, but now less common for traveling to the port for Con Dao, though still mentioned by some sources.15

Table: How to Get from HCMC to Vung Tau Port (Reference)

Means of Transport	Travel Time	Estimated Cost (VND)	Popular Companies/Services	Advantages	Disadvantages
Limousine Bus	2 – 2.5 hours	180,000 – 260,000	Hai Van Limousine, Anh Quoc Limousine, Hoa Mai Limousine	Fast, comfortable, spacious seats, may have Wi-Fi, water	Higher cost than regular buses
Regular Bus	2.5 – 3 hours	110,000 – 160,000	Phuong Trang (Futa Bus), Hoa Mai	Cost-effective, many trips	May stop frequently to pick up/drop off passengers
Private Car/Motorbike	2 – 3 hours	Depends on vehicle/fuel	Self-sufficient	Proactive with time, itinerary	Need to drive, find parking at the port

• Schedule, Travel Time, and Estimated Ticket Prices (Vung Tau – Con Dao Ferry):

• Sea Travel Time: Approximately 3.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on the type of vessel and weather conditions.10 The Thang Long ferry by Phu Quoc Express is advertised to have a travel time of about 3.5 hours.11
• Ferry Schedule: Usually 01 trip per day, departing in the morning.11 However, some information indicates that the Vung Tau – Con Dao route may operate on alternate days.10 Therefore, checking the updated schedule from the ferry company is crucial, especially during the low season or when the weather is unfavorable.
• Ticket Prices (Reference for Phu Quoc Express):

• Weekdays (Monday – Thursday): ECO (economy) tickets around 660,000 – 790,000 VND/trip; VIP tickets around 1,100,000 – 1,200,000 VND/trip.11
• Weekends (Friday – Sunday) and Holidays/Tet: ECO tickets around 880,000 – 950,000 VND/trip; VIP tickets around 1,200,000 VND/trip.11
• Ticket prices may vary, check directly when booking.

• Ticket Classes and Onboard Amenities:

• Economy Ticket (Economy/ECO): Includes soft seats, air conditioning, TV, and restrooms on board.11
• VIP/Business Ticket: Usually offers more spacious seating, better views, and some ferries have separate cabins with more premium amenities like deeply reclining seats and personal entertainment screens.11 The Thang Long ferry by Phu Quoc Express has a VIP cabin with 120-degree reclining seats and LCD screens.14

• Baggage Regulations:

• Phu Quoc Express: The baggage policy usually allows each passenger to carry about 15kg to 20kg of luggage free of charge. However, specific information for each route may vary, and some sources do not provide details for the Con Dao route.14 Passengers should confirm when booking tickets.

The investment in modern, larger vessels like the Thang Long ferry by Phu Quoc Express shows an effort to improve service quality and passenger experience on the Vung Tau – Con Dao route.11 Larger ferries usually help minimize seasickness, enhance amenities, and have a higher passenger capacity, meeting the increasing demand for Con Dao tourism. However, the variability of ferry schedules due to weather and seasonal demand requires tourists to proactively check information and book tickets in advance, especially if traveling during peak periods.

1. From Soc Trang (Tran De Port) to Con Dao

The high-speed ferry route from Tran De port (Soc Trang) to Con Dao is the option with the shortest sea travel time, very suitable for those concerned about seasickness or wanting to save time on the sea.

• Ferry Companies and Departure Ports:

• Superdong: A familiar ferry company with vessels like Superdong Con Dao I and Superdong Con Dao II.2
• Phu Quoc Express (Con Dao Express): Also operates this route with vessels like Con Dao Express 36 and Trung Nhi.10
• Departure Port: Tran De Port, Tran De District, Soc Trang Province.10

• How to Get from Ho Chi Minh City to Tran De Port (Soc Trang):
  The distance from HCMC to Tran De port is quite far, over 220km, requiring tourists to carefully calculate travel time.

• Bus: This is the main public transport. Bus companies like Phuong Trang (Futa Bus), My Duyen have routes from HCMC to Soc Trang. Travel time is about 4.5 to 6.5 hours. Ticket prices range from 160,000 VND to 200,000 VND/person. Some bus companies like My Duyen, Phuong Trang offer shuttle services or pick-up/drop-off near Tran De port, which is very convenient for ferry passengers.26
• Motorbike/Private Car: Traveling by private vehicle takes about 3-4 hours by car from HCMC.

Table: How to Get from HCMC to Tran De Port, Soc Trang (Reference)

 

Means of Transport	Travel Time	Estimated Cost (VND)	Popular Companies/Services	Advantages	Disadvantages
Bus	4.5 – 6.5 hours	160,000 – 200,000	Phuong Trang (Futa Bus), My Duyen	Economical, many trips, some companies offer shuttles to the port 26	Long travel time, may need to change buses if no direct route
Private Car/Motorbike	3 – 4 hours	Depends on vehicle/fuel	Self-sufficient	Proactive with time, itinerary, can carry more luggage	Long-distance self-driving, fuel costs, tolls, finding parking

• Schedule, Travel Time, and Estimated Ticket Prices (Soc Trang – Con Dao Ferry):

• Sea Travel Time: This is the biggest advantage of this route, taking only about 2 hours 30 minutes to 2 hours 40 minutes.2
• Ferry Schedule: Both Superdong and Phu Quoc Express have daily operations. Superdong usually has about 2 trips/day 16, and Phu Quoc Express also maintains a regular schedule.12
• Superdong Ticket Prices (reference):

• Adult ticket: Around 310,000 VND – 390,000 VND/trip.
• VIP ticket: Around 590,000 VND/trip.13

• Phu Quoc Express Ticket Prices (reference):

• Weekdays (Monday – Thursday): ECO tickets around 390,000 VND/trip; VIP tickets around 590,000 VND/trip.8
• Weekends (Friday – Sunday) and Holidays/Tet: ECO tickets around 450,000 VND/trip; VIP tickets around 590,000 VND/trip.8

• Ticket Classes and Onboard Amenities: Similar to other high-speed ferry routes, the ferries operating on the Soc Trang – Con Dao route are equipped with soft seats, air conditioning, entertainment TV screens, and clean restrooms. VIP tickets usually offer more spacious areas and additional amenities.13
• Baggage Regulations:

• Superdong: Each passenger is allowed to carry about 20kg of luggage free of charge. Carry-on baggage must comply with size and weight regulations to not affect common space. Some other sources did not find detailed information on Superdong’s official website.
• Phu Quoc Express: The baggage policy usually allows 15kg to 20kg free of charge per passenger.

The presence of both Superdong and Phu Quoc Express on the Soc Trang – Con Dao route indicates that this is an important sea route with high travel demand. This competition usually benefits passengers through maintained service quality and reasonable ticket prices. Although the sea travel time is very short, tourists need to note the considerable additional time for road travel from Ho Chi Minh City or other provinces to Tran De port.12 Therefore, the total journey time may not differ much from departing from Vung Tau if land travel time is included.

1. From Ho Chi Minh City (Hiep Phuoc Port/Saigon Port – Nha Rong) to Con Dao

In recent years, the operation of direct high-speed ferry routes from Ho Chi Minh City to Con Dao has provided a convenient new option for tourists, eliminating the need to transfer to Vung Tau or Soc Trang.

• Ferry Companies and Departure Ports:

• Phu Quoc Express (Thang Long Ferry and others):

• Hiep Phuoc Port (Nha Be): The Thang Long ferry, one of the largest and most modern high-speed ferries, has been put into operation on this route. Passengers may be transferred from Bach Dang Wharf (District 1) to Hiep Phuoc Port to board the ferry.12 The sea travel time from Hiep Phuoc Port to Con Dao is estimated to be about 4.5 to 6 hours.12
• Estimated ticket prices for Thang Long ferry from Hiep Phuoc Port 12: VIP tickets around 1,100,000 – 1,200,000 VND/trip, Standard (ECO) tickets around 880,000 – 980,000 VND/trip, depending on weekdays or weekends/holidays.

• Phu Quy Express:

• Saigon Port – Nha Rong Wharf (District 4): This company operates ferries from Nha Rong Port, a very convenient location near the center of Ho Chi Minh City, to Con Dao. Sea travel time is about 6 to 7 hours. Phu Quy Express ferries on this route offer both soft seats and sleeper berths, suitable for long journeys.31
• Estimated ticket prices for Phu Quy Express ferry from Nha Rong Port 31: Seats around 990,000 – 1,090,000 VND/trip, sleeper berths around 1,150,000 – 1,260,000 VND/trip, depending on weekdays or weekends/holidays.

• Note on Port Information: There is some differing information about the exact departure port from HCMC. 10 mentions Saigon Port – Hiep Phuoc Terminal to Con Dao taking 5 hours. 12 also mentions Saigon Port (No. 05 Nguyen Tat Thanh) operated by Phu Quy Express. This suggests there might be multiple port options or different ferry companies use different wharves in the HCMC area. The route from Nha Rong Port by Phu Quy Express has an advantage in its central location.31

• Schedule: Direct ferry trips from HCMC to Con Dao usually do not run daily but operate on alternate days.12 Schedules may change depending on the season, weather conditions, and passenger demand, so checking updated information from the ferry company is essential.24
• Baggage Regulations: Similar to other routes of Phu Quoc Express and Phu Quy Express, passengers are usually allowed to carry about 15kg to 20kg of luggage free of charge.

The direct ferry route from Ho Chi Minh City to Con Dao, especially from conveniently located ports like Nha Rong Port, offers superior convenience for tourists.31 Passengers do not need to spend extra time and effort on road travel to Vung Tau or Soc Trang, making the entire journey more comfortable and easier, especially for those who dislike long car rides. However, as these are relatively new sea routes and may still be in the adjustment and improvement phase 24, the stability and frequency of trips may not be as high as traditional routes. Tourists should regularly update information from ferry companies and may consider backup plans, especially during the initial operation phase of some new services. Phu Quy Express offering both seating and sleeper berth options on the long journey from HCMC is a plus, meeting passengers’ need for rest on a 6-7 hour trip.31

1. Comparison of High-Speed Ferry Companies to Con Dao

To help tourists get an overview and easily choose the most suitable high-speed ferry option, below is a summary table of information for the main ferry routes to Con Dao:

Table: Summary of Information for High-Speed Ferry Routes to Con Dao (Reference)

 

Route	Popular Ferry Companies	Travel Time (Sea)	Estimated Ticket Price (ECO/VIP – VND)	Main Baggage Allowance (kg)	Departure Port / Arrival Port (Con Dao)	Advantages	Disadvantages
Vung Tau – Con Dao	Phu Quoc Express (Con Dao Express)	3.5 – 4.5 hours 10	ECO: 660K-950K VIP: 1,100K-1,200K	Approx. 15-20kg	Cau Da Port / Ben Dam Port	Moderate travel time to Vung Tau from HCMC, modern ferries (Thang Long Ferry).	Longer sea time than Soc Trang, schedule may be alternate days.
Soc Trang (Tran De) – Con Dao	Superdong, Phu Quoc Express (Con Dao Express)	2.5 – 2.8 hours 2	ECO: 310K-450K VIP: 590K	Approx. 20kg (Superdong ), 15-20kg (PQE )	Tran De Port / Ben Dam Port	Shortest sea time, competitive ticket prices, many trips per day.	Long road travel time from HCMC to Soc Trang (4.5-6.5 hours).
HCMC (Hiep Phuoc/Nha Rong) – Con Dao	Phu Quoc Express, Phu Quy Express	4.5 – 7 hours 31	ECO: 880K-1,090K VIP/Berth: 1,100K-1,370K 31	Approx. 15-20kg	Hiep Phuoc Port or Nha Rong Port / Ben Dam Port	Most convenient (no need for much transfer), sleeper berth option for long journey (Phu Quy Express).	Longest sea time, ticket prices may be higher, schedule often alternate days, new routes may be less stable.

Note: Information in the table is for reference only; prices and schedules may change. Please check directly with the ferry company for the most accurate information at the time of booking.

When choosing a high-speed ferry to Con Dao, tourists should consider the trade-offs between factors such as total travel time (including both land and sea), cost, convenience, and susceptibility to seasickness.

• The Soc Trang – Con Dao route stands out with the shortest sea travel time and often competitive ticket prices, but it requires passengers to spend significant time on road travel from HCMC or neighboring provinces.
• The Vung Tau – Con Dao route has a moderate sea travel time, and getting from HCMC to Vung Tau is relatively easy. The introduction of large, modern ferries like Thang Long by Phu Quoc Express promises a better, less seasickness-prone experience, although ticket prices might be slightly higher.11
• The Ho Chi Minh City – Con Dao route offers maximum convenience by eliminating complex road transfers but comes with the longest sea travel time and potentially higher ticket prices than other routes.

Another important factor is the quality of the ferry and the journey experience. Newer, larger ferries are usually better equipped, operate more smoothly, help reduce seasickness, and provide more comfort for passengers. Tourists can choose between saving costs with standard ferries or investing a bit more for a better experience on modern vessels.

Finally, as the maritime transport industry is heavily influenced by weather conditions and market demand, schedules, ticket prices, and even operating ports can change.10 Therefore, checking the latest information from ferry companies or reputable ticket agents before each trip is crucial to ensure a smooth journey.

1. Essential Information for a Perfect Con Dao Trip

To make your Con Dao trip truly complete, grasping some important information about the best time to travel, how to get around the island, tips for preventing seasickness, and booking experiences is essential.

1. Ideal Time to Visit Con Dao

Con Dao has a tropical monsoon climate, divided into two relatively distinct seasons: the rainy season from May to November and the dry season from December to April of the following year.1 Choosing the right time to travel will help you have the best experiences.

• Best Time to Visit Con Dao: The period from March to the end of September (or October) is generally considered the most ideal.1 Although this period includes part of the rainy season, the sea in Con Dao is usually quite calm with light winds. Daytime is often sunny, very favorable for sightseeing, swimming, and snorkeling to see coral. Rain (if any) usually appears in the afternoon, occurs quickly, and does not last long, sometimes even bringing a cool, pleasant atmosphere.25 This is also a suitable time to explore the small islands to the east and northeast of the Con Dao archipelago.25
• Sea Turtle Nesting Season: This is one of the most special and meaningful experiences when visiting Con Dao. The season when green sea turtles (Vich) come to the sandy beaches in Con Dao to nest and lay eggs usually lasts from May to October. Then, from around mid-July to early November (some sources say until December), tourists will have the precious opportunity to witness the sight of tiny baby turtles breaking out of their shells, struggling to crawl to the sea to begin their life journey. Some resorts like Six Senses Con Dao also coordinate with Con Dao National Park to implement turtle conservation programs and allow tourists to participate in releasing baby turtles to the sea in the early morning.
• Best Time for Scuba Diving: If you are a fan of exploring the ocean world, consider visiting Con Dao around February to July. At this time, the seawater is usually clearest, with visibility reaching 20 to 30 meters. Weather conditions are also very favorable with little wind and low tides, creating ideal conditions for scuba diving and exploring colorful coral reefs, as well as the only shipwreck in Vietnam accessible by diving.
• Weather Notes:

• December and January may experience strong winds and rough seas, especially in the Con Son Bay area.22
• From October to March of the following year, due to the influence of the Northeast monsoon, the sea can be rough with large waves, making it difficult to travel by boat to distant islands and for activities on the sea.25

Con Dao offers distinct charms in every season of the year. Tourists can choose their travel time based on personal preferences: if prioritizing calm seas and sunny weather for exploring islands and participating in sea activities, the period from March to September is suitable. If wanting to experience the magical moment of the turtle nesting season, plan your trip from May to October. Even during the rainy season, Con Dao still has calm sea days, and sudden rain showers usually do not significantly affect the itinerary, instead, they cool down the heat and bring fresh air.25

1. Getting Around Con Dao

After arriving in Con Dao, choosing the means of transportation on the island is also very important for you to fully explore its beauty.

• Walking or Cycling: Con Son town, the center of the island, is quite small and has flat terrain. This is an ideal condition for tourists to leisurely walk or rent a bicycle to explore the roads shaded by ancient banyan trees, historical sites, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the town.2 Famous attractions near the center such as Con Dao Museum, Phu Hai, Phu Son prison camps, or Van Son Pagoda (Nui Mot) are also easily accessible by bicycle.22
• Motorbike: To explore beautiful beaches far from the center, spectacular coastal roads, or other attractions on the island proactively and flexibly, motorbikes are the most popular means.33 Tourists can easily rent motorbikes at hotels, guesthouses, or rental shops on the island at reasonable prices. Riding a motorbike along deserted roads, with majestic mountains on one side and vast blue sea on the other, will surely be an unforgettable experience.
• Small Boats: For those who want to explore the small surrounding islands, participate in snorkeling, fishing activities, renting a small boat is an unmissable option.33 Local boat owners often provide this service with various itineraries and prices.

The flexibility and proactivity that motorbikes offer are key factors helping tourists freely explore the diverse beauty and charming hidden corners of Con Dao in their own way.22

1. Tips to Prevent Seasickness When Traveling by Ferry

For journeys to Con Dao by high-speed ferry, especially on routes with long travel times, preparing anti-seasickness measures is very necessary, especially for those with sensitive constitutions.

• Choose a Suitable Seating Position: The middle of the ferry and the lower deck are usually the least prone to shaking, as they are closer to the ferry’s center of gravity, helping to minimize the feeling of rocking.34
• Focus Your Gaze on the Horizon: Look straight ahead at the horizon or a fixed point far in front. Avoid looking down at nearby waves or concentrating on reading books, watching phones, or tablets for long periods, as this can increase the signal conflict between your eyes and inner ear, causing dizziness.22
• Fresh Air: Breathe fresh and airy air. If conditions allow and it’s safe, you can go to the deck area (outside the cabin) to breathe sea air.34
• Diet: Before and during the trip, avoid eating too much, limit oily, spicy foods. Absolutely do not drink alcohol or stimulants.34
• Use Supportive Measures:

• Anti-seasickness medication: Take medication as directed (usually about 30 minutes to 1 hour before boarding). There are many over-the-counter drugs like Bonine, Dramamine.36
• Natural remedies: Fresh ginger, ginger candy, ginger tea are known for their stomach-soothing and nausea-reducing effects.22 Peppermint has similar effects.
• Medicated oil, anti-sickness patches: Some people feel better when using medicated oil or anti-sickness patches behind the ear.
• Acupressure Wristbands: These bands apply pressure to an acupoint on the wrist believed to reduce seasickness symptoms.22

• Rest: If possible, try to sleep during the journey. This helps your body feel less of the ferry’s movement.34
• Avoid Unpleasant Factors: Avoid places with strong smells (food smells, strong perfume, gasoline smell). If you see others getting seasick, try to move away discreetly, as seasickness can be “contagious.”34

Seasickness is a real concern for many passengers when traveling by sea, especially on ferry trips lasting from 2.5 to 7 hours to Con Dao.34 Proactively applying the tips above will help you prepare better, minimize discomfort, and enjoy the sea journey more fully.

1. Booking Guide and Important Notes

To ensure a smooth Con Dao trip, booking tickets correctly and understanding important notes are essential.

• Reputable Booking Channels:

• Official Airline Websites:

• Vietnam Airlines: vietnamairlines.com 4

• Official High-Speed Ferry Company Websites:

• Superdong: superdong.com.vn
• Phu Quoc Express / Con Dao Express: condaoexpress.net , pqe.com.vn 39, vetaucondao.vn 8, phuquocexpressboat.com.vn 40, phuquocexpress.com.41
• Phu Quy Express (for HCMC – Con Dao route): Website mentioned during booking at.31

• Reputable Online Travel Agencies (OTAs):

• Traveloka 6
• Baolau.com 42
• Bookaway.com
• Klook.com
• Vexere.com (for flights and some bus/ferry tickets)

• Direct Booking at Ticket Offices or by Phone:

• Contact airline ticket offices 3 or ferry companies.31

• Important Notes When Booking Tickets:

• Book Early: Always prioritize booking early, especially if you plan to travel during peak tourist season, weekends, or holidays/Tet. This not only helps you get better prices but also ensures availability, avoiding sold-out situations.1
• Check Personal Information: When booking, ensure all personal information (full name, date of birth, ID/Passport number) is entered accurately and matches the identification documents you will use for check-in.
• Confirm Date, Time, Departure/Arrival Points: Carefully check the departure date and time, origin, and destination of the flight or ferry to avoid confusion.
• Understand Ticket Policies: Read the terms and conditions related to the ticket carefully, including refund, cancellation, and change policies of each company and ticket type. These policies can vary greatly, and understanding them will help you be more proactive if your plans change.
• Compare Ticket Prices: Spend time comparing ticket prices between different companies, ticket types, and booking channels to find the best option for your budget.
• Check-in Time:

• For flights: Arrive at the airport for check-in at least 1 hour before departure for domestic flights.6
• For high-speed ferries: Arrive at the port for check-in about 45 to 60 minutes before departure.10

• Prepare Identification Documents: Bring valid identification documents (ID card, Passport, Birth certificate for children) for check-in procedures for flights or ferries.

The diversity of booking channels today offers much convenience to tourists. However, this also requires passengers to be cautious in choosing reputable booking channels to avoid unnecessary risks. Carefully reading the ticket terms, especially refund, cancellation, and change policies, is extremely important as many tourists often overlook this step, leading to unnecessary trouble and losses when travel plans change unexpectedly.

1. Conclusion

The journey to Con Dao, the mystical pearl of the East Sea, has now become more convenient and diverse than ever. Tourists have many options to set foot on this beautiful island, from fast, convenient flights departing from major cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Can Tho, to experiential high-speed ferry trips gliding across the waves from Vung Tau, Soc Trang, or even directly from Ho Chi Minh City.

Each mode of transport has its own pros and cons, suitable for different needs, budgets, and preferences of tourists. Air travel saves maximum time, while high-speed ferries offer the opportunity to admire the sea views and usually have more affordable costs. The development of flight routes and especially high-speed ferry routes with modern, large-capacity vessels has contributed to shortening the distance, making Con Dao no longer a too distant or difficult-to-access destination.

However, to have a truly smooth and complete “How to get to Con Dao island” journey, planning early, researching information thoroughly, comparing options, and booking tickets in advance, especially during peak season, are extremely important. Passengers need to proactively update schedules and ticket prices from reputable transport companies, while also understanding baggage regulations and other necessary notes.

Con Dao, with its pristine beauty, profound historical values, and unique ecosystem, awaits tourists to explore. Hopefully, with the detailed information in this guide, you will be able to easily choose the most suitable means of transport, prepare your luggage carefully to start your journey to conquer and experience the wonderful things in Con Dao responsibly and memorably.