Ferry to Con Dao from Soc Trang (Tran De): The Shortest & Most Budget-Friendly Route
The Ferry to Con Dao from Soc Trang (Tran De) is currently the shortest sea route, taking only 2 hours 15 minutes to 2.5 hours. To take this route, travelers usually take a sleeper bus (My Duyen, Futa…) from Ho Chi Minh City to Tran De Port (approx. 5-6 hours overnight). At the port, you can choose between Superdong or Con Dao Express ferries departing around 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM. This is the best option to minimize seasickness and save money.
If you are worried about long hours on the open sea or want to save money compared to flying, the Saigon – Soc Trang – Con Dao route is the perfect solution.
As Scuba Instructors at Amadive, we often recommend this route to our students who are prone to mild seasickness because it has the shortest duration on the water. Here is your A-Z guide.
1. Why choose the Ferry to Con Dao from Soc Trang (Tran De) Route?
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Shortest Sea Time: Only ~2.5 hours (compared to 4 hours from Vung Tau).
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Cost-Effective: Total cost (Bus + Ferry) is only around $30 – $35 USD/way.
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Reliable: Operated by two major ferry companies (Superdong & Con Dao Express).
2. Bus Guide: Saigon (HCMC) to Tran De Port
From Saigon, you need to travel about 230km to the Mekong Delta. There are two main ways:
Option 1: Direct Sleeper Bus to Tran De Port (Recommended)
This is the most convenient way. You board the bus at night, sleep, and wake up right at the pier.
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Recommended Operator: My Duyen Bus or Phuong Trang Bus (Futa Express)
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Route: Mien Tay Bus Station (Saigon) -> Tran De Port.
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Departure: Usually late night (10 PM, 11 PM) to arrive early morning.
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Price: Approx. 200,000 – 220,000 VND (~$9 USD).
3. Tran De Port Location & Ferry Terminals
Tran De Port is located at the mouth of the Hau River.
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Address: 30/4 Street, Tran De Town, Soc Trang Province. Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/HWa6WAWS2o7etcw7A
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Identifying the Ticket Offices:
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Superdong Office: White and blue building, right at the port entrance.
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Con Dao Express Office: Nearby, with red signage.
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Check-in Process:
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Arrive 30 minutes before departure.
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Present your E-Ticket (QR Code) + Original Passport.
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Note: The port area can be very sunny and hot with limited seating. It’s best to wait at nearby coffee shops until boarding time.
4. Ferry Schedule & Price Comparison
Amadive compares the two operators to help you choose:
| Feature | Superdong Ferry | Con Dao Express (CDE) |
| Vessel Type | Monohull or smaller Catamaran | Large Catamaran (5-star) |
| Duration | ~ 2 hours 30 mins | ~ 2 hours 15 mins |
| Departure | 08:00 AM, 10:30 AM | 08:30 AM, 09:00 AM |
| Ticket (ECO) | ~ 350,000 VND (~$15) | ~ 390,000 VND (~$17) |
| Ticket (VIP) | N/A | 590,000 VND (~$25) |
| Stability | Good | Better (Larger vessel) |
Note: Schedules change based on tides. Contact Amadive to check the exact times for your travel dates.
5. The Best Time to Visit Con Dao island
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March to September (Calm Season):
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This is the Best time to go to Con Dao. The sea is flat, ensuring a smooth ride.
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Diving: Underwater visibility is excellent.
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October to February (Windy Season):
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The estuary area at Tran De can get choppy.
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If you get seasick easily, avoid sitting at the front of the boat. We recommend choosing the larger Con Dao Express vessel for stability.
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6. Expert Tips from Amadive
To ensure you are fit for diving upon arrival:
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Sleep on the Bus: Bring an eye mask and neck pillow for the overnight bus ride.
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Light Breakfast: Eat something light (Banh Mi) at the port, avoid heavy liquids before boarding.
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Book Ahead: This route is popular with locals. Let Amadive handle your Boat & Bus tickets to ensure a hassle-free trip.