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中文 (中国)If you are planning a day trip to explore the stunning islands near Hoi An, the Hoi An to Cham Island Ferry is a journey you absolutely cannot miss. Many travelers wonder how to go to Cham Island efficiently. In this comprehensive guide, Hoi An Wonders provides everything you need to know, including ferry ticket prices, boat schedules, transportation options, a detailed 1-day itinerary, and essential travel tips for 2026.
1. How to Get to the Pier
When traveling from Hoi An to Cham Island, the sole and official departure point if you are looking to catch a ferry to Cham Island is Cua Dai Pier (Cảng Cửa Đại). The pier is located approximately 5–7 km from Hoi An Ancient Town and about 45 km from Da Nang.
GPS Coordinates: 15.8903°N, 108.3267°E – Simply search for “Cảng Cửa Đại” or “Cua Dai Pier” on Google Maps.
1.1 Getting to Cua Dai Pier
Ride-Hailing (Grab) / Taxi: This is the easiest and most convenient option. The cost ranges from 80,000 to 120,000 VND, taking about 15–20 minutes. We highly recommend using the Grab app for fixed pricing, as local taxis occasionally “forget” to turn on their meters.
Motorbike: Ideal for travelers seeking freedom and adventure. Rental costs are around 100,000–150,000 VND/day. The ride takes just 12–15 minutes if you follow Cua Dai Road straight toward the beach.
Private Car from Da Nang: This costs between 1,200,000 and 1,800,000 VND for a full-day rental, including waiting time. It is a cost-effective choice for groups of 3–4 people splitting the fare.
If you are looking for a reliable Hoi An Private Car service, you cannot pass up the 7-seater car rental with a driver from Hoi An Wonders, offering an incredibly budget-friendly rate starting from just 300,000 VND per way.
1.2 Important Notes Upon Arrival at the Pier
The pier features ticket counters for various operators (Hoang Sa Viet, Dai Phat, and various speedboat companies) along with secured parking lots (20,000 VND/day for motorbikes; 30,000–50,000 VND/day for cars).
Public restrooms are located near the ticket counters—be sure to use them before boarding, as there are no toilets on the boats.
Avoid purchasing tickets from unofficial “touts” near the main gate. Only buy your tickets at the official counters inside.
An Hoi Pier – Do Not Choose This! Some outdated sources mention An Hoi Pier as a departure point closer to the town center. In reality, it only operates 1–2 trips per day, whereas Cua Dai Pier offers 5–6 departures. Head straight to Cua Dai Pier to ensure a smooth trip.
2. Hoi An to Cham Island Ferry: Ticket Prices & Boat Schedule 2026
2.1 Fare and Schedule Comparison for Cham Island Boats
| Boat Type | Cost (Round Trip) | Travel Time | Departure Times |
| Wooden Ferry | 350,000–400,000 VND | 50–60 minutes | 8:00–8:30 AM (1 trip/day) |
| Speedboat | 500,000–600,000 VND | 20–30 minutes | 8:00, 9:00, 10:00 AM, 1:30, 2:00 PM |
| Private Charter | 7.5–18.5 million VND/boat | Flexible | Custom options |
Note: The 70,000 VND/person marine conservation fee is already included in all the prices listed above.
2.2 Wooden Ferry (Slow Boat)
This is the most budget-friendly option if you want to take a traditional Cham Island ferry. The two primary operators are Dai Phat and Hoang Sa Viet, departing from Cua Dai Pier at approximately 8:00–8:30 AM (only one trip per day). The journey takes about 50–60 minutes, and a round-trip ticket costs 350,000–400,000 VND (~$14–16).
The Highlights: These are traditional wooden fishing vessels upgraded with passenger seating and life jackets. The leisurely pace offers a genuinely authentic experience—you sit close to the water’s surface, observing local fish traps, traditional fishing boats, and the bustling harbor activity that speedboat passengers completely miss out on.
Who it’s for: Wooden ferries are highly stable, making them suitable for those prone to seasickness, families with small children, or travelers with heavy luggage (you can even transport a motorbike for an extra 100,000 VND, as well as bicycles or large coolers).
Drawbacks: There is only 1 trip per day at 8:00 AM. If you miss it, you will either have to wait until the next day or pay extra for a speedboat. This is why you must arrive at the pier before 7:30 AM.
Return times from the island: Around 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM (depending on the operator).
2.3 Speedboat (Cano)
This is the most popular choice, taking only 20–30 minutes to reach the island. These modern fiberglass speedboats are equipped with powerful outboard motors and have a capacity of 30–50 passengers.
Round-Trip Speedboat Ticket Prices
| Ticket Type | Price (VND) |
| Adult (Same-day return) | 500,000 |
| Adult (Different-day return) | 550,000 |
| Child (1m – 1.3m tall) | 250,000 |
| Child (Under 1m tall) | Free |
Speedboat Schedule from Cua Dai Pier: 8:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 1:30 PM, and 2:00 PM.
Return Schedule from the Island: 1:00 PM and 2:30 PM.
Seating Tip: The front seats are the bumpiest, the back seats are the smoothest, and the middle seats offer the ideal balance. If you are prone to seasickness, grab a middle seat as soon as you board.
Note: Speedboats do not transport motorbikes due to weight and space limitations.
Booking: It is highly recommended to book at least 2–3 days in advance by contacting the pier directly or through travel agencies in Hoi An.
2.4 Package Tour Option
A comprehensive Cham Island tour from Hoi An or Da Nang typically ranges from 450,000 to 800,000 VND per person (equivalent to $35–65 if departing from Da Nang). This includes round-trip speedboat transfers, entrance fees, lunch, and snorkeling activities. It is the most hassle-free option if you prefer not to arrange the logistics yourself.
2.5 Entrance Fees & Additional Costs
| Fee Item | Cost |
| Entrance Fee (Adults & Children > 1.3m) | 70,000 VND |
| Entrance Fee (Children 1m – 1.3m) | 35,000 VND |
| Entrance Fee (Children < 1m) | Free |
| Eco-fee / Environmental Fee | 20,000–30,000 VND |
| Snorkeling Equipment Rental | 200,000 VND |
| Motorbike Taxi (Xe Om) on the island | 50,000–100,000 VND |
Note: The total conservation fee is already integrated into most boat tickets. Please note that only reef-safe sunscreen is permitted on the island – regular sunscreens are banned to protect the fragile marine ecosystem.
3. Detailed 1-Day Cham Island Itinerary
7:00–7:30 AM | Depart from Hoi An to Cua Dai Pier: Travel via Grab or bicycle. Purchase your tickets at the counter or collect your pre-booked tickets. Arrive early to use the restroom and buy water/snacks at the pier shops (prices are slightly higher but convenient).
8:00 AM | Board the Boat from Cua Dai Pier: The earliest departure (8:00 AM) is less crowded and provides the best morning light for photos during the crossing.
8:20–8:30 AM | Arrive at Bai Lang Village: The boat docks at the pier in Bai Lang, the main fishing village on Cham Island. This is the perfect spot to observe the daily rhythms of local fishermen.
9:00–11:00 AM | Sightseeing & Cham Island Snorkeling: Visit the Ancient Boat Shelter (Au Thuyen) and Hai Tang Pagoda (built in 1848) before diving into water activities:
- Snorkeling: 400,000–600,000 VND/person (includes gear and guide). The best spots are Hon Dai and Bai Xep.
- Scuba Diving: Explore the best-preserved coral reefs in Central Vietnam. A basic discovery scuba diving tour starts at around $80.
- Sea Walking: 950,000 VND/person – walk along the ocean floor without needing any swimming or diving skills.
- Best Beaches for Swimming/Snorkeling: Bai Lang (safest, fully lifeguarded), Bai Bac, Bai Chong, and Bai Ong (the furthest, use caution).
12:00–1:30 PM | Fresh Seafood Lunch: Savor fresh local seafood at beachfront restaurants. Enjoy grilled fish, succulent shrimp, stir-fried squid, and abalone dipped in chili-lime fish sauce. Budget for lunch: 150,000–300,000 VND/person.
1:30–3:00 PM | Relax, Swim, and Explore: Unwind on the pristine sands of Bai Huong or Bai Xep, take photos, and shop for local souvenirs.
3:00–4:00 PM | Return to Cua Dai Pier: Board your return boat on time. Set an alarm 30 minutes prior, as the boats will not wait for late passengers.
Can you believe that for just 550,000 VND, you can experience a complete island getaway from A to Z? Forget about budget worries – Hoi An Wonders offers the best market rate for a 1-day Cham Island tour from Da Nang.
4. Best Time to Visit Cu Lao Cham Island
March to May (Best Time): Flawless weather (28–32°C, calm seas, crystal-clear visibility), moderate crowds, and a 95% on-time boat schedule rate. Booking just 1 day in advance is sufficient.
June to August (Peak Season): Beautiful weather but much larger crowds. It is highly advisable to book 2–3 days in advance (tickets for weekends can sell out early).
September to February (Not Recommended): A 40–60% trip cancellation rate due to rough seas, heavy monsoons, and storms. Only attempt this if your itinerary is completely flexible.
5. Essential Booking and Travel Tips
Book your tickets well in advance, especially during the peak season, weekends, or Vietnamese holidays (Tet holiday requires booking at least 1 week ahead).
Bring plenty of VND cash (around 1,000,000–1,200,000 VND for the day) since there are no ATMs on the island. The only ATM near Cua Dai Pier occasionally runs out of cash on weekends.
Use only reef-safe sunscreen. Chemical sunscreens are strictly banned to preserve the coral.
Pack list: At least 1 liter of drinking water, a hat, sunglasses, a light jacket (it gets windy on the boat), a waterproof phone pouch, a towel, and swimwear.
If you are coming from Da Nang, consider staying overnight in Hoi An to eliminate the early morning commute and enjoy the Ancient Town’s magical evening lantern views.
Keep small change handy for parking (20,000 VND)—parking attendants often do not have change for 500,000 VND notes.
6. Where to Buy Cham Island Ferry Tickets: Top Agencies & Booking Options [2026]
To purchase a Cham Island boat ticket (including fast canoes and wooden boats), you have several booking channels and providers to choose from, depending on whether you are traveling independently or booking a full tour. Below are the most popular ticket providers and booking methods available today:
6.1 Buying Directly at Cua Dai Pier Ticket Office (Hoi An)
This is the most common method for fully independent backpackers and DIY travelers wondering how to go to Cham Island on their own. Inside Cua Dai Pier, you will find the operations center and official ticket counters managed by the port authority.
Boat operators at the pier: Here, you will find counters for various transport cooperatives and boat operators like Dai Phat and Hoang Sa Viet (specializing in the wooden Cham Island ferry), along with dozens of speedboat companies.
Pros: Official listed prices; flexibility to choose your preferred boat operator on the spot.
Cons: During peak tourist season (May to August) or weekends, you may have to wait in long lines to buy tickets and clear border guard procedures.
6.2 Booking via Travel Agencies & Tour Operators (Highly Recommended)
To guarantee a seat on a speedboat at your preferred departure time (usually 8:00 – 9:00 AM) without the hassle of waiting in line, you should book in advance through reputable agencies. These companies sell individual tickets (just the boat and entrance fees) as well as private speedboat charters:
Hoi An Wonders: This is a highly reputable travel provider with deep local expertise. You can book individual speedboat tickets, charter a private canoe, or book a comprehensive Cham Island tour at highly competitive prices, complete with fast-track boarding assistance.
DANAGO: A leading and trusted travel brand in Central Vietnam. While their strength lies in package tours, DANAGO also offers individual canoe tickets and private speedboat charters for families or corporate groups looking for a customized, professional island itinerary.
Culaochamtour.com / Dai Viet Tourist: These are also reliable online agencies that provide daily updated boat schedules and assist independent travelers with booking canoe tickets and snorkeling passes.
6.3 Important Notes When Buying DIY Tickets
Ask about hidden fees: A standard round-trip speedboat ticket usually ranges from 400,000 to 550,000 VND. Make sure the ticket provider has already included the Sightseeing Fee (70,000 VND) and the Eco-fee (30,000 VND) in their quote to avoid surprise charges when you arrive on the island.
Provide mandatory information: Under Border Guard regulations, all passengers traveling to the island must declare their details for insurance purposes. Whether buying at the pier or through an agency, have a list of Full Names and Birth Years ready for your entire group.
Confirm your return time: If you buy a same-day round-trip ticket, the boat typically picks passengers up to return to the mainland between 1:30 PM and 2:00 PM. If you plan to stay overnight, you must inform the ticket provider in advance (returning on a different day often incurs a surcharge).
7. Contact Information
- Address: Van Lang, Hoi An Dong, Hoi An, Da Nang
- Phone/Zalo/Whatsapp: +84 932414309
- Website: https://hoianwonders.vn
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dulichhoianwonders
The Hoi An to Cham Island Ferry journey is one of the most remarkable nature experiences in Central Vietnam. Whether you choose the budget-friendly wooden ferry to savor the slow journey, a convenient speedboat to maximize your island time, or a private boat charter for a large group, a trip to Cham Island is always rewarding.
Book your tickets early with the Cham Island Tour by Hoi An Wonders to enjoy an all-inclusive service covering transfers, speedboat rides, and delicious fresh seafood dining.
The Hoi An to Cham Island Ferry journey is one of the most remarkable nature experiences in Central Vietnam. Whether you choose the budget-friendly wooden ferry to savor the slow journey, a convenient speedboat to maximize your island time, or a private boat charter for a large group, a trip to Cham Island is always rewarding.
I am Nguyen Truong Gia Khang, a travel enthusiast with a passion for exploring new horizons. With over 10 years of experience documenting and sharing my journeys, I am dedicated to providing readers with practical insights, authentic experiences, and inspiring tips to ensure every trip becomes a lasting memory.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Quick answers before booking tours, private cars, hotels or villas in Hoi An.
The wooden ferry takes 50–60 minutes, while the speedboat takes 20–30 minutes. Both are direct routes with no mid-way stops.
Motorbikes are only permitted on the wooden ferry for an extra fee of 100,000 VND. Speedboats do not carry motorbikes. In reality, most tourists leave their bikes behind because the island is tiny—walking or hiring a local motorbike taxi (Xe Om) for 50,000–100,000 VND is far more convenient.
Yes. Staying overnight is the absolute best way to experience the island's peaceful charm once the day-trippers leave. Local homestays cost between 600,000 and 800,000 VND per double room depending on amenities.
You will receive a 100% refund, no questions asked. You can reschedule for the following day or switch between the wooden ferry and speedboat (paying or receiving the price difference). Always check the 48-hour weather forecast before your trip.
Yes, definitely, if you love snorkeling/scuba diving, want to escape the hustle and bustle of Hoi An, and appreciate raw, untouched natural beauty. However, it is not ideal if you expect luxury resorts or modern commercial amenities—Cham Island is rustic and laid-back, and that is precisely its charm.