The Ultimate Guide on How to Get to Con Dao Island (2025 Update)
Con Dao, with its pristine beauty and one of Vietnam’s best-preserved marine ecosystems, is a dream destination for nature lovers and scuba divers. However, planning how to get to this remote archipelago can sometimes be a puzzle for travelers.
Don’t worry! This comprehensive guide provides all the information you need to choose the most suitable mode of transport, ensuring your journey to explore Con Dao begins smoothly.
Quick Overview: Flight vs. High-Speed Ferry to Con Dao
➡️ Still undecided? Read our detailed comparison article: Fly or Ferry to Con Dao: Which One Should You Choose?
✈️ Option 1: Traveling by Plane (Fast & Convenient)
This is the fastest way to set foot on Con Dao, ideal for travelers who want to maximize their vacation time.
- Arrival Airport: Co Ong Airport (VCS), located about 15km from the main town.
- Main Routes:
- From Ho Chi Minh City (SGN): The most popular route with multiple flights daily.
- From Hanoi (HAN): Convenient for travelers from Northern Vietnam.
- From Can Tho (VCA): An option for those in the Mekong Delta.
- Airline: Vietnam Airlines is the primary and most consistent carrier serving Con Dao.
- Helpful Tips:
- Flights typically use smaller ATR-72 aircraft, so regulations for checked luggage (usually 20-23kg) and carry-on are quite strict.
- From the airport to the town center, you can take a taxi (approx. 300,000 – 400,000 VND) or use a hotel/resort shuttle service.
⛴️ Option 2: Traveling by High-Speed Ferry (Budget-Friendly & Scenic)
Taking a high-speed ferry is an exciting experience that allows you to enjoy the sea views and save significantly on costs.
- Arrival Port: Ben Dam Port, located about 13km from the town center.
- Main Routes:
- From Vung Tau: The classic route, with a travel time of about 4 – 5 hours. Location: Vung Tau Port
- From Soc Trang (Tran De Port): The best option for Mekong Delta travelers, offering the shortest time at sea, only about 2 – 2.5 hours. Location: SuperDong Tran De Port
- From Ho Chi Minh City (Sai Gon Port): A convenient new route that eliminates the need for a road trip to Vung Tau/Soc Trang. Travel time is about 4-5 hours. Location: Sai Gon Port
- Popular Ferry Operators: Con Dao Express and Superdong are the two largest and most modern ferry companies.
- Important Notes:
- Ferry trips are highly susceptible to cancellation due to bad weather. Always check the forecast, especially during the rainy season (June – September).
- If you are prone to seasickness, prepare medication and choose a seat on the lower deck in the middle of the vessel.
Booking Advice
- When to Book: Always book your tickets at least 2-4 weeks in advance, especially if traveling on weekends or public holidays, to avoid sold-out tickets and get better prices.
- Where to Book: It’s best to book directly through the official websites of the airlines and ferry companies to ensure safety and receive accurate trip information.
Conclusion
Whether you choose the convenience of a flight or the adventurous journey of a ferry, Con Dao awaits with its pristine natural beauty.
Now that you know how to get here, let Amadive guide you in exploring the magical world beneath Con Dao’s turquoise waters. Contact us to plan your diving trip!