How to Get to Con Dao Island: Flights, High-Speed Ferries and Helicopters

Traveling to Con Dao Island, Vietnam, has become more convenient with several transportation options, including commercial flights, high-speed ferries and helicopter services. Each offers different advantages in terms of travel time, ticket prices, departure locations and overall experience.

Flying is generally the fastest option, while high-speed ferries provide an affordable way to reach the island from several mainland ports. For travelers seeking something more exclusive, the Vung Tau – Con Dao helicopter service offers a memorable journey with spectacular aerial views of Vietnam’s southern coastline.

This guide explains how to get to Con Dao Island, including available routes, estimated travel times, ticket prices and practical booking information.

Getting to Con Dao Island by Plane

Flying is one of the fastest and most convenient ways to reach Con Dao, particularly for travelers departing from Ho Chi Minh City or connecting from other major cities in Vietnam.

Flights to Con Dao have traditionally been operated by VASCO, a member of the Vietnam Airlines Group, using ATR 72 aircraft.

The main air routes include:

• Ho Chi Minh City – Con Dao: Flights depart from Tan Son Nhat International Airport, with a flying time of approximately 45–60 minutes.
• Can Tho – Con Dao: Flight time is approximately 45 minutes, subject to current airline schedules and route availability.

Travelers departing from Hanoi, Hai Phong, Da Nang and other destinations may need to arrange connecting flights through Ho Chi Minh City or Can Tho.

Bamboo Airways previously operated direct flights between Hanoi and Con Dao using Embraer aircraft. However, these services were discontinued during the airline’s restructuring process. Travelers should therefore check current flight availability rather than relying on older route information.

Airfares to Con Dao vary depending on the booking date, seasonal demand and available seats. Indicative one-way fares may start from approximately VND 1.6 million, with higher prices during weekends, public holidays and peak tourism periods.

Con Dao Airport has a runway approximately 1,830 meters long and primarily accommodates smaller aircraft such as the ATR 72. Its infrastructure limits the types of aircraft and flight operations available.

Flying is particularly suitable for business travelers, families with children and visitors planning short holidays on the island.

Getting to Con Dao Island by Helicopter from Vung Tau

Besides commercial flights, the Vung Tau – Con Dao helicopter service provides a distinctive transportation option connecting the mainland with Con Dao Island.

The route is operated by Southern Vietnam Helicopter Company (VNH South), offering passengers a convenient journey over the East Sea.

The flight takes approximately 60 minutes, allowing passengers to enjoy panoramic views of the coastline, offshore waters and surrounding islands.

Helicopter schedule from Vung Tau to Con Dao

According to the published scheduled service, flights generally operate on Fridays and Sundays:

• Vung Tau to Con Dao: Departure at 1:00 PM, arrival at approximately 2:00 PM.
• Con Dao to Vung Tau: Departure at 3:00 PM, arrival at approximately 4:00 PM.

Flights depart from Vung Tau Airport, located at 36–38 April 30 Street, Tam Thang Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, and arrive at Con Dao Airport.

Vung Tau – Con Dao helicopter ticket prices

Indicative fares effective from June 1, 2026:

Passenger category	One-way	Round-trip
Adults	VND 2,500,000	VND 5,000,000
Children aged 2 to under 12	VND 2,250,000	VND 4,500,000
Infants under 2	Free	Free

Passengers must present valid identification documents and comply with the operator’s baggage allowances and check-in requirements.

Helicopter flights are subject to weather conditions, aircraft availability, operational arrangements and the operator’s confirmation.

Because scheduled flights operate on limited days and have restricted seating capacity, advance booking is strongly recommended.

Helicopter reservations and information

• Website: https://tructhang.vn/
• Flight schedules: https://tructhang.vn/lich-bay/
• Booking hotline: +84 915 241 456

For travelers departing from Vung Tau, a helicopter flight offers a unique alternative to traditional sea transportation.

Getting to Con Dao Island by High-Speed Ferry

High-speed ferries are among the most popular transportation options for travelers visiting Con Dao, especially those departing from southern Vietnam and the Mekong Delta.

Depending on the operating schedule, ferry connections may be available from Vung Tau, Tran De Port and central Ho Chi Minh City.

Vung Tau to Con Dao High-Speed Ferry

The Vung Tau – Con Dao ferry route connects the coastal area of Vung Tau with Ben Dam Port on Con Dao Island.

One of the vessels associated with this route is Thang Long, operated by Phu Quoc Express. With a passenger capacity exceeding 1,000, it is among Vietnam’s largest passenger high-speed ferries.

The sea journey normally takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on weather and operational conditions.

Indicative ECO ticket prices are:

• Weekdays: from VND 790,000 per passenger.
• Weekends: from VND 950,000 per passenger.
• VIP seating and discounted passenger categories are subject to separate fares.

The ferry schedule may vary throughout the year, particularly during periods of rough seas. Passengers should verify operating dates before making travel arrangements.

Tran De to Con Dao High-Speed Ferry

The Tran De – Con Dao route is a convenient choice for travelers coming from the Mekong Delta.

Tran De Port is located in the former Soc Trang Province, which became part of Can Tho City following Vietnam’s administrative reorganization in 2025.

The route has been served by operators including Phu Quoc Express, with vessels such as Trung Trac and Trung Nhi, and Superdong, with its Superdong Con Dao fleet.

Depending on the vessel and operating conditions, the journey typically takes approximately 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes.

Indicative Con Dao Express ticket prices include:

• ECO adult ticket on weekdays: VND 390,000.
• ECO adult ticket on weekends: VND 450,000.
• VIP ticket: VND 590,000.

Superdong applies its own fare structure and sailing schedules. Passengers should verify the operating company, vessel and exact ticket price before booking.

Travelers departing from central Can Tho should also note the distinction between older services associated with Ninh Kieu Wharf and departures from Tran De Port. Direct services from Ninh Kieu should not be assumed available without confirmation.

Ho Chi Minh City to Con Dao High-Speed Ferry

The Ho Chi Minh City – Con Dao ferry connection provides an alternative for passengers who prefer to depart from the city without traveling by road to Vung Tau or Tran De.

This route has previously been served by large passenger vessels offering different seating and sleeping accommodation categories.

However, operations may be seasonal, suspended or subject to changes by the ferry company. Travelers should confirm whether the service is operating on their preferred travel date before booking accommodation or arranging onward transportation.

Con Dao High-Speed Ferry Schedules

Passengers can check ferry schedules for the main Con Dao routes through Taucaotoc.vn.

The schedule system provides departure information to help travelers compare sailing dates, select suitable services and submit ticket booking requests.

Important: Ferry schedules, ticket prices and vessel availability may change due to weather conditions, operating plans and carrier adjustments. Submitting a booking request does not guarantee a confirmed seat until the operator or authorized ticket agent confirms the reservation.

Which Is the Best Way to Get to Con Dao Island?

The best transportation option depends on your departure location, budget, travel preferences and available time.

Transportation	Estimated travel time	Main advantage
Flight from Ho Chi Minh City	45–60 minutes	Fast and convenient
Flight from Can Tho	Around 45 minutes	Convenient when operating
Helicopter from Vung Tau	Around 60 minutes	Unique aerial experience
Ferry from Vung Tau	3.5–4 hours	Multiple seating classes
Ferry from Tran De	1h 45m–2h 30m	Budget-friendly
Ferry from central Ho Chi Minh City	Depends on the service	Convenient when available

Travel times refer to the flight or sea journey only. They exclude transfers to airports or ports, check-in procedures and waiting time.

For visitors with limited time, flying is usually the most practical choice.

Travelers departing from Vung Tau who are interested in a special aviation experience may prefer the helicopter service.

For budget-conscious visitors, particularly those traveling from the Mekong Delta, high-speed ferries departing from Tran De can offer excellent value.

Families, larger groups and independent travelers may also appreciate the different ticket classes available on ferry services.

Regardless of your chosen transportation method, booking in advance is highly recommended during weekends, Vietnamese public holidays and peak travel seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling to Con Dao

What is the fastest way to get to Con Dao Island?

Commercial flights from Ho Chi Minh City generally take around 45–60 minutes. Helicopter flights from Vung Tau take approximately one hour. Total door-to-door travel time depends on your departure location and airport transfers.

Can I travel to Con Dao Island by ferry?

Yes. High-speed ferry services connect Con Dao with mainland departure points, including Tran De and Vung Tau, when scheduled routes are operating.

Is there a helicopter service from Vung Tau to Con Dao?

Yes. Southern Vietnam Helicopter Company operates scheduled helicopter services on selected days, subject to availability and operational conditions.

How long does the ferry from Tran De to Con Dao take?

The journey generally takes approximately 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes, depending on the vessel and sea conditions.

Should I book Con Dao transportation in advance?

Yes. Booking early is particularly important during weekends, public holidays and peak tourism periods, when available seats can be limited.

Book Your Transportation to Con Dao Island

Whether you prefer the convenience of a flight, the affordability of a high-speed ferry or the unique experience of a helicopter journey, planning ahead will help make your Con Dao trip more comfortable.

Useful booking information:

• High-speed ferry schedules and ticket information: https://taucaotoc.vn/en
• Con Dao ferry booking information: https://vetaucondao.vn/en
• Vung Tau – Con Dao helicopter tickets: https://tructhang.vn/

Taucaotoc.vn provides information about Vietnam’s high-speed ferry routes, sailing schedules, ticket prices and booking procedures, helping travelers plan their journeys to Con Dao and other island destinations.

Last updated: October 2026. All fares, routes and schedules are indicative and should be confirmed with the relevant transportation operator before booking.