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Ferry to Con Dao from Vung Tau: Ultimate Bus & Boat Guide 2026

Ferry to Con Dao from Vung Tau: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2026

To take the Ferry to Con Dao from Vung Tau, follow this route: Take a Limousine Van from Ho Chi Minh City to Cau Da Port (Vung Tau) (approx. 2 hours). From there, board the Con Dao Express 36 high-speed boat, departing around 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM. The sea journey takes 3.5 to 4 hours. This is the best option for adventurous travelers who want to enjoy the ocean view.

For ocean lovers, the journey by sea to Con Dao is more than just transportation—it’s the beginning of an adventure. However, navigating the logistics in Vietnam can be tricky.

As professional Scuba Instructors constantly traveling between the mainland and the island, Amadive has created this detailed guide to help you plan a smooth, safe, and enjoyable trip.

1. About the High-Speed Ferry to Con Dao

Currently, the sea route from Vung Tau to Con Dao is operated exclusively by Con Dao Express, buy ticket here: https://condao.express/

  • Vessel: Modern twin-hull catamaran (Con Dao Express 36), designed for stability and comfort. Capacity: ~600 passengers.

  • Duration: Approximately 3 hours 45 minutes.

  • Facilities: Comfortable reclining seats, VIP cabin, outdoor deck for sightseeing, and a mini-bar.

Note: The Mai Linh Express ferry is no longer in operation. Con Dao Express is your only boat option from Vung Tau.

Ferry to Con Dao from Vung Tau

2. Bus from Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) to Vung Tau

To catch the morning ferry, you need a reliable transfer from Saigon. We highly recommend taking a Limousine Van (9-seater).

Why Limousine Van?

  • Fast: Uses the Long Thanh highway. Travel time is only ~ 2 hours.

  • Convenient: Door-to-door service. They can drop you right at the port.

  • Frequency: Departures every 30 minutes starting from 4:00 AM.

Recommended Operators

To catch the 7:30 AM or 8:00 AM ferry, you must leave Saigon by 5:00 AM – 5:30 AM at the latest.

Operator Hotline Pick-up Points (HCMC) Approx. Price
Hoa Mai Limousine 1900 59 99 97 District 1, Hang Xanh ~ 200,000 VND
Toan Thang Limousine 1900 6968 District 1, Airport ~ 200,000 VND
Vie Limousine 1900 1131 District 1, District 3 ~ 240,000 VND

Pro Tip: Tell the driver: “Please drop me at Cau Da Port  to go to Con Dao”. This ensures you arrive at the correct gate without needing a taxi. you can reservation ticket bus at https://vexere.com/

3. Cau Da Port: Departure Point

It is crucial to arrive at the correct port.

  • Official Name: Cau Da Port (Cảng Cầu Đá) or Vung Tau Passenger Port: Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/YbqEosuyiaPapSwp6

  • Address: 09 Ha Long Street, Ward 2, Vung Tau City (Located at Front Beach – Bai Truoc).

  • Location: Right opposite the Green Hotel and near the Cable Car station.

Important: Please arrive at the port at least 45 minutes before departure to print your ticket and check your luggage. The boarding gate closes 15 minutes before departure.

[Image Alt Text: Map location of Cau Da Port Vung Tau]

4. Ferry Schedule & Prices

(Schedule subject to change due to tides and weather. Contact Amadive for the latest updates)

  • Departure (Vung Tau): Usually 07:30 AM or 08:00 AM.

  • Return (Con Dao): Usually 01:30 PM.

Ticket Price (VND/one-way):

Ticket Class Weekdays (Mon-Thu) Weekends (Fri-Sun) & Holidays
ECO (Standard) 790,000 VND (~$32) 950,000 VND (~$39)
Seniors (>60) 630,000 VND (~$26) 760,000 VND (~$31)
VIP 1,200,000 VND (~$49) 1,200,000 VND (~$49)

5. The Best Time to Visit Con Dao island

Choosing the right season is key for a smooth ride and great diving.

  • March to September (Best Season):

    • Sea Conditions: Very calm, flat seas. Minimal risk of seasickness.

    • For Divers: Best underwater visibility. This is also turtle nesting season!

    • Weather: Warm, occasional tropical rain showers (short duration).

  • October to February (Windy Season):

    • Sea Conditions: Rough seas, big waves due to the Northeast Monsoon. The ferry ride can be bumpy.

    • For Divers: Visibility can be lower.

    • Risk: Ferries may be cancelled if the wind is too strong. If you travel during these months, consider flying instead.

6. Safety & Booking Tips from Amadive

  1. Seasickness: Even on a modern boat, the ocean can be unpredictable. Take seasickness medicine 30 minutes before boarding. Avoid a heavy, greasy breakfast.

  2. Seating: If you are prone to motion sickness, ask for a seat in the lower deck, middle or back rows. Avoid the front rows.

  3. Booking: Tickets sell out fast on weekends. Amadive can assist you in booking both Ferry Tickets and Diving Tours to ensure a seamless vacation.

7. FAQ Ferry to Con Dao from Vung Tau