New High-Speed Ferry Connects Ho Chi Minh City to Con Dao

In a significant boost to regional connectivity and the tourism sector, Vietnam unveiled its largest high-speed passenger ferry, the Thang Long, on May 13, 2024. This new service provides a direct link between Ho Chi Minh City and the picturesque Con Dao Islands.

Service Overview

Route: Ho Chi Minh City to Con Dao Islands
Capacity: 1,017 passengers
Launch Date: May 13, 2024

Ferry Details

Size: Over 77 meters in length
Speed: Capable of 35 knots (over 60 km/h)
Journey Time: Approximately four hours
Safety: Engineered to operate in wind speeds of 62–74 km/h with advanced stabilization features to minimize seasickness

new-high-speed-ferry-connects-ho-chi-minh-city-to-con-dao-2 — On the opening day, nearly 150 passengers boarded to experience the high-speed ferry. On May 15th, the ferry embarked on its first journey to Con Dao. Prior to this, tickets were available for sale at various agencies, ticket offices, and through the company’s website, with prices ranging from 615,000 VND to 1.1 million VND per person, depending on the class and time of departure.

Schedule and Tickets

Frequency: Three trips per week, with one day between each departure
Departure Point: Hiệp Phước Port, Nhà Bè District, Ho Chi Minh City
Ticket Pricing: Ranges from 615,000 to 1.1 million VND, varying by class and departure time
Availability: Tickets can be purchased at various agencies, the company’s booking offices, and online

new-high-speed-ferry-connects-ho-chi-minh-city-to-con-dao-1 — Tickets are available for purchase at various ticket agencies, the company's booking offices, and online, with prices ranging from 615,000 to 1.1 million VND, depending on the class and timing of travel.

Significance of the New Service

The Deputy Director of Ho Chi Minh City’s Department of Transport, Bui Hoa An, highlighted that the Thang Long ferry will significantly enhance travel options to Con Dao, offering a convenient alternative to air travel. This development not only strengthens connections within the Southeast region but also enriches the travel experiences available to visitors.

new-high-speed-ferry-connects-ho-chi-minh-city-to-con-dao-3 — The passenger decks are located on the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd levels, featuring leather-upholstered seats. Above the seating area, life jackets are stored in overhead compartments. Each deck is equipped with TVs, restrooms, fire safety systems, and surveillance cameras. Additionally, there is a premium section offering more spacious and private seating.

new-high-speed-ferry-connects-ho-chi-minh-city-to-con-dao-4 — The top deck hosts a café and dining area, complete with long tables for guests to relax or work.

Cultural and Historical Appeal

Located about 230 km southeast of Ho Chi Minh City, the Con Dao archipelago is steeped in history, originally known for its colonial-era penitentiary and later used by the Americans during the Vietnam War. Today, it is celebrated globally for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it an appealing destination for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers.

This new ferry service promises to make the stunning beaches and rich history of Con Dao more accessible for both residents and tourists, ensuring the archipelago remains a must-visit location on the travel map of Vietnam.