The Complete Cham Island Ferry Guide 2025: Schedules, Prices, Hoi An & Da Nang Routes

You are 20 kilometers off the coast of Hoi An, standing on a beach so pristine you can count the fish swimming 20 feet below in crystal clear water. Behind you, limestone karsts rise from the sea. In front of you, a beachside cafe grills fresh-caught seafood. Around you? Maybe 30 other tourists total compared to the thousands crammed into Hoi An Ancient Town. Feels good to picture it. right?

That's Cham Island (Cu Lao Cham), a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve that somehow stays off most travelers' radars despite being just a 20 minute speedboat ride from one of Vietnam's busiest tourist spots.

Getting there is dead simple. A speedboat from Cua Dai Pier zips you across in 20 to 30 minutes for 500,000-600,000 VND ($20-25) roundtrip. Prefer a slower, cheaper ride? The wooden ferry takes 50 to 60 minutes for 350,000-400,000 VND ($14-16). Both leave from the same pier, multiple times daily.

But here's what you might hear much when planning a trip to Cham island: timing is everything. Book the wrong boat at the wrong time and you'll sit crammed with 50 package-tour tourists. Book right and you'll have the island practically to yourself. Ferry schedules change with weather and seasons. Departure times shift. And if you're coming from Da Nang instead of Hoi An, the logistics get trickier.

Our guide covers every ferry option including schedules, exact prices, how to book, what to expect, and the specific routes from both Hoi An and Da Nang. Whether you're a budget backpacker taking the slow boat or a time pressed traveler grabbing the speedboat, you will know exactly what to do.

Let's break it down.

P.S If you are already in Hoi an then do consider the Marble mountains of Vietnam which is one of the most visited places of Da Nang!

Quick Booking Reference: Cham Island Ferry in 60 Seconds

Not sure which ferry to take? Here's the breakdown at a glance.

From Hoi An to Cham Island

Conservation fee: Included in all prices above (70,000 VND per person)

From Da Nang to Cham Island

Option 1: Drive/taxi to Cua Dai Pier in Hoi An (45km, ~1 hour), then take ferry

Option 2: Book hotel day tour package (transport + ferry included, ~$35-65 total) 

Mini tip: Most Da Nang travelers book organized tours because independent travel requires coordination (car rental + ferry booking + timing).

Key Info You Need Right Now

Departure pier: Cua Dai Pier (15.8903°N, 108.3267°E) - GPS coordinates for Google Maps

What's included in ferry price:

• Round-trip boat ride
• Marine conservation fee (70,000 VND)
• Life jacket

What's NOT included:

• Snorkel equipment (rent separately: 200,000 VND)
• Lunch on island (budget 150,000-300,000 VND)
• Transport from your hotel to pier

Best booking approach:

• Peak season (March-August): Book 1-2 days ahead
• Rainy season (Sept-Feb): Usually can book same-day
• Always: Confirm schedule morning-of (weather changes plans)

Quick decision guide:

• Tight on time? choose Speedboat
• Tight on budget? choose Wooden ferry
• Traveling with 8+ people? split a private charter (cheaper per person)
• Coming from Da Nang? book hotel package (simplest option)

Next question: How do I actually get to the pier? Keep reading

Getting to Cua Dai Pier: Your Gateway to Cham Island

All ferries to Cham Island depart from Cua Dai Pier (also called Cua Dai Harbor or Cua Dai Wharf). This is THE only public departure point i.e there's no alternative ferry dock for tourists.

P.S If you have an extra time here then spend a day on lively Danang beaches!

From Hoi An Ancient Town to Cua Dai Pier 

Distance: 5-7 kilometers
Travel time: 15-20 minutes

Transportation Options:

Taxi or Grab (Most Popular)

• Cost: 80,000-120,000 VND ($3.50-5)
• Time: 15-20 minutes
• Best for: First-time visitors, travelers with luggage, groups splitting cost
• How: Open Grab app, search "Cua Dai Pier" or "Cảng Cửa Đại"
• Mini tip: Use Grab for fixed pricing as local taxis sometimes "forget" to use the meter (if you know what I mean!)

Motorbike Rental

• Cost: 100,000-150,000 VND per day rental
• Time: 12-15 minutes (if you know the route)
• Best for: Independent travelers who want flexibility, experienced riders
• Route: Follow Cua Dai Road straight from Ancient Town toward the beach; pier is on your left before you hit the beach parking lots
• Reality: Hoi An traffic is manageable but if this is your first time on a Vietnamese motorbike, maybe skip it

Bicycle

• Cost: Free (most hotels loan bicycles)
• Time: 25-35 minutes (mostly flat, scenic route)
• Best for: Budget travelers, morning riders (before it gets too hot)
• Note: You'll arrive slightly sweaty so maybe bring a change of shirt
• Parking: Free bike parking at the pier (secure area near ticket counters)

Local Shuttle Van

• Cost: 30,000-50,000 VND
• Time: 30 minutes (makes several stops)
• Best for: Ultra budget travelers who don't mind waiting
• Where to find: Ask your hotel reception as many organize shared shuttles departing 6:30-7:30 AM (Not all hotels arrange it though) 

From Da Nang to Cua Dai Pier

Distance: 45 kilometers south
Travel time: 50-70 minutes depending on traffic

This is where it gets more complicated. You have three realistic options: 

Option 1: Book an Organized Tour Package (Easiest) 

Most Da Nang hotels and travel agencies offer Cham Island Day Tour packages including:

• Hotel pickup (usually 7:00-7:30 AM)
• Private van/bus to Cua Dai Pier
• Ferry or speedboat ticket
• Sometimes lunch + snorkel equipment
• Return transport to Da Nang

Cost: $35-65 per person (varies by operator)

Pros:

• Zero planning required (they handle everything)
• Transport + ferry ticket bundled
• English-speaking tour guide
• Good for first-timers or families

Cons:

• You're on their schedule (less flexibility)
• Arrives during peak hours (9-10 AM = more crowds)
• Costs more than DIY approach

Who it's best for: People staying in Da Nang who want maximum convenience and don't mind crowds

Option 2: Rent Motorbike + Drive Yourself (Adventurous)

Cost:

• Motorbike rental: 100,000-150,000 VND per day
• Gas: ~50,000 VND
• Ferry ticket: 500,000-600,000 VND (speedboat) or 350,000-400,000 VND (ferry)
• Total: 600,000-800,000 VND for the full day

Route:

• From Da Nang, take Highway 1A south
• Follow signs toward Hoi An (about 30km)
• Before entering Hoi An Ancient Town, follow signs to Cua Dai Beach
• Pier is at the beach parking area (look for "Cảng Cửa Đại" signs)

 Time: 50-70 minutes depending on traffic

Pros:

• Complete flexibility (leave when you want, return when you want)
• Cheapest option if you're already renting a motorbike
• Scenic coastal drive

Cons:

• Vietnamese traffic is chaotic (not for beginners)
• Need to coordinate ferry timing yourself
• If ferry gets cancelled, you've wasted gas money and time

Who it's best for: Experienced motorbike riders comfortable with Vietnamese roads, flexible travelers

Option 3: Private Taxi/Car for Full Day (Comfortable but Expensive)

Cost: 1,200,000-1,800,000 VND ($50-75) for private car with driver (full day, includes waiting time) 

How it works:

• Book through your hotel or Grab app
• Driver takes you to Cua Dai Pier
• Waits while you do the island tour
• Drives you back to Da Nang

Pros:

• Most comfortable option
• Door-to-door service
• Good for groups (split 3-4 ways = reasonable per person)
• No navigation stress 

Cons:

• Expensive for solo travelers
• Driver waiting fee adds to cost

Cost breakdown for groups:

• Solo traveler: 1,500,000 VND total (expensive!)
• Couple: 750,000 VND per person (moderate)
• Group of 4: 375,000 VND per person (decent value)

Who it's best for:** Families with kids, groups of 3-4 splitting costs, people who want comfort over budget

At Cua Dai Pier: What You'll Find

When you arrive, you'll see:

• Ticket counters for multiple ferry operators (Hoang Sa Viet, Dai Phat, and speedboat companies)
• Parking area for motorbikes and cars
• Small shops selling snacks, drinks, sunscreen (slightly overpriced but convenient)
• Seafood restaurants (skip these. overpriced and mediocre. just eat on the island instead)
• Bathroom facilities (use these before boarding. no toilets mid journey!)

Arrive 30 minutes before departure time to:

• Buy tickets
• Use bathroom
• Buy snacks/water if needed
• Not stress about rushing duh! 

Parking at Cua Dai Pier

Motorbike parking: 20,000 VND per day
Car parking: 30,000-50,000 VND per day

Parking is secure (attended lot). Your ferry ticket sometimes includes parking so check with the ticket counter when you pay. 

GPS Coordinates for Google Maps

Cua Dai Pier: 15.8903°N, 108.3267°E

Just search "Cua Dai Pier" or "Cảng Cửa Đại" in Google Maps from anywhere in Hoi An or Da Nang.  

An Hoi Pier Alternative (Skip This)

I saw some people mentioning An Hoi Pier as an alternative departure point closer to Hoi An center. Just don't!!

The reality:

• Only 1-2 ferries depart per day (vs. 5-6 at Cua Dai)
• Less reliable schedules
• Same prices as Cua Dai
• Not worth the "convenience" of being slightly closer

Just go to Cua Dai Pier. Don't complicate things. 

Our Tips for Getting There

Tip 1: If taking speedboat, arrive 8:00 AM or earlier. First departure (8:00 AM) = fewer crowds, best light for photos on the boat ride.

Tip 2: Coming from Da Nang? Consider staying one night in Hoi An. You'll save transport hassle, can explore Ancient Town in the evening, and catch early ferry to Cham Island. 

Tip 3: Bring exact change for parking (20,000 VND). Parking attendants often "don't have change" for 500,000 VND notes. 

Tip 4: Don't let unofficial "helpers" near the pier sell you ferry tickets. Only buy from official ticket counters inside the pier building.

Ferry vs. Speedboat vs. Private Charter: Which Should You Take?

Option 1: The Public Ferry (Traditional Wooden Boat)

Official names: Hoang Sa Viet ferry or Dai Phat ferry (two main operators)

Departure time: 8:00-8:30 AM daily (single morning departure only)  
Return from island: 11:00 AM-1:00 PM (timing depends on operator)  
Duration: 50-60 minutes one-way  
Cost: 350,000-400,000 VND ($14-16) round-trip including conservation fee  
Boat capacity: 40-60 passengers  
Departure pier: Cua Dai Pier 

What makes it special:

This is the traditional wooden boat fishermen use with same design just retrofitted with seats and life jackets. It is significantly slower than the speedboat but that's exactly why some people prefer it.

The experience feels authentic. You're low to the water (you can literally trail your hand in the sea). You'll see fish traps, local fishing boats, and get a sense of the working harbor that tourists on speedboats completely miss. 

The 60 minute journey gives you time to actually relax, take photos, chat with your travel partner or just zone out watching the karst islands drift by. For many travelers, this slower boat ride becomes one of their favorite parts of the day and not just a transportation to get somewhere.

Stability: Very stable. Even in moderate wind, the boat stays relatively steady. Good for people prone to seasickness or families with young kids who get queasy.

Can carry: Bicycles, small motorbikes (extra 100,000 VND), large luggage, coolers. Basically anything you'd want to bring to the island.

Seating: Wooden benches with thin cushions. Not luxurious but fine for an hour. Upper deck has better views but more sun exposure... lower deck is shaded but less scenic.

Best for:

• Budget travelers (cheapest option)
• Photographers (slow pace = easier photos, golden-hour sunrise light)
• Families with kids (smooth, stable, less stressful)
• People sensitive to motion sickness
• Travelers carrying extra gear (snorkel equipment, beach stuff, bikes)
• Anyone who values the journey as much as the destination

Not ideal for:

• Time-pressed travelers (only one departure, ties up your morning)
• People who want flexibility (you're locked into 8 AM departure)
• Travelers who hate early mornings... ummmm. don't we all!

Important limitation: The public ferry departs ONCE per day at 8:00-8:30 AM. If you miss it, your only options are:

1. Wait until tomorrow
2. Pay for speedboat instead (extra 150,000-200,000 VND)
3. Give up on visiting Cham Island

This is why arriving at the pier by 7:30 AM is critical.

Option 2: The Speedboat (High-Speed Motorboat)

Boat type: Modern fiberglass speedboat with outboard motors

Departure times:

• Morning: 8:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:00 AM
• Afternoon: 1:30 PM, 2:00 PM

Return from island:

• Morning: 7:00 AM (yes, BEFORE you arrived. this is for locals)
• Midday: 1:00 PM, 2:30 PM

Duration: 20-30 minutes one-way
Cost: 500,000-600,000 VND ($20-25) round trip including conservation fee  
Boat capacity: 30-50 passengers

What makes it unique:

Fast, loud, and bumpy (in a fun way if you like that sort of thing). The speedboat gets you to Cham Island in the time it takes most people to finish their morning coffee.

You will feel the engine vibration through your seat. The boat skips over waves instead of cutting through them. On windy days, you'll get occasional spray over the bow (exciting for some, annoying for others).

Seating strategy: Front seats = most bouncing, back seats = smoothest, middle = Goldilocks zone. If you're prone to seasickness just request middle seats when boarding (hurry up though!).

Views: The speed means less time for photos but the dramatic spray and wake make for cool action shots if you're into that.

Cannot carry: Motorbikes (weight restrictions), oversized luggage, pets. Basically, if it's heavier than a backpack, leave it.

Best for:

• Time-limited travelers (maximizes island time vs. boat time)
• People who enjoy speed/thrill (it's genuinely fun if conditions are calm)
• Flexible schedulers (multiple departures mean you're not locked to 8 AM)
• Travelers without extra gear

Not ideal for:

• Seasickness-prone people (bumpy ride on windy days)
• Families with kids under 5 (noise + bouncing = crying kids)
• Calm sea? Great. Windy day? Prepare to hold on.
• Budget travelers (costs 50% more than ferry)

I am being honest, speedboat experience is entirely weather dependent. On calm days (March-June), it's smooth and exhilarating. On windy days (September-November), it's like riding a mechanical bull for 25 minutes. Check weather forecast before committing, I mean it!

Option 3: Private Charter (Luxury Option)

Boat sizes available:

• 18-seat boat: 7,500,000 VND
• 25-seat boat: 12,000,000 VND
• 36-seat boat: 15,000,000 VND
• 50-seat boat: 18,500,000 VND

Duration: Whatever you want since you set the schedule  
Departure: Your choice (within daylight hours)  
Includes: Boat + captain + crew, life jackets, usually some snacks/drinks

Math that matters:

Solo traveler: Outrageously expensive (don't do this)  
Couple: Still expensive (7,500,000 ÷ 2 = 3,750,000 VND per person)  
Group of 8: Reasonable (7,500,000 ÷ 8 = 937,500 VND per person)  
Group of 12: Cheaper than speedboat! (12,000,000 ÷ 12 = 1,000,000 VND per person) 

Why book private:

• You control departure time (not locked to schedules)
• You choose how long to stay on island
• Privacy (no strangers)
• Often includes extras (snorkel gear, lunch, drinks)
• Can negotiate stops at specific beaches
• You feel like a king/queen. does this count?

Who should book:

• Groups of 8+ people (cost-effective when split)
• Wedding parties, family reunions, corporate groups
• Honeymooners/couples willing to splurge
• Photography groups wanting specific timing for light

How to book: Call pier directly (+84 369 365 004) or book through Hoi An travel agencies. Book at least 2-3 days in advance.

Decision Matrix: Which Ferry Should You Take?

My Recommendation

Your first time visiting Cham Island? Take the ferry. The journey IS part of the experience. You'll remember the slow sunrise ride across the bay just as much as the island itself.

Short on time or hate mornings? Take the speedboat. The extra 150K VND is worth it if you can sleep until 9 AM and still make the island by 10 AM.

Traveling with a group of 8+? Split a private charter. You will save money vs. speedboat AND get flexibility.

Coming back for a second visit? Mix it up...ferry one way, speedboat the other way (if timing allows).

Weather Cancellations

Both ferries and speedboats can be cancelled due to weather. This happens:

• 5% of the time in dry season (March-August)
• 40-60% of the time in rainy/typhoon season (September-February)

What happens if cancelled:

• Full refund (no questions asked)
• Can rebook next day
• Can switch to alternative (ferry to speedboat and vice versa for price difference)

Mini tip: Always check weather forecast 48 hours before. If typhoon warnings exist, seriously consider postponing your trip by 3 to 5 days.

BEST TIME TO VISIT CHAM ISLAND

March-May (Best Overall)

• Perfect weather (28-32°C, calm seas, great visibility)
• Moderate crowds (not peak yet)
• 95% ferry reliability
• Book 1 day ahead

June-August (Popular)

• Still beautiful but hot + peak tourists
• Same 95% ferry reliability
• Book 2-3 days ahead (weekends fill up)

September-February (Budget Option)

• Cheaper prices, fewer tourists
• But Rough seas, 40-60% cancellation rate in Oct-Nov
• Only visit if flexible schedule + don't mind weather gambles

I would say March-May is worth paying extra for. The difference between calm seas (March) and rough seas (October) makes or breaks the experience.

Things to do on Cham Island

Snorkeling and scuba diving

Cham Island belongs to a protected marine park featuring some remarkably healthy coral reefs, along with teeming marine life. Snorkelling tours are available starting at $55 a person, while guided dives for beginners can be had from $80. Most tour packages include all equipment.

Beach Relaxation

Enjoy the best beaches, including Bai Chong and Bai Ong, which boast crystal clear waters, shady palm trees, and seafood shacks.

Cham Island Culture

Other attractions are the Hai Tang Pagoda, which was built in 1848, and looking at fishing traditions in Bai Lang Village.

Local Seafood Fare

Savor freshly caught seafood at local beachside restaurants. Popular dishes include grilled fish, prawns, and abalone, often paired with lime, chili, and aromatic herbs.

Cham Island Ferry: Your Questions Answered

Q: How long is the ferry ride to Cham Island?

A: Depends on which boat:

1. Speedboat: 20-30 minutes one-way
2. Public ferry (wooden boat): 50-60 minutes one-way

Both are direct routes (no stops between Hoi An and Cham Island).

Q: How much does the Cham Island ferry cost in 2025?

A:

• Public ferry: 350,000-400,000 VND ($14-16) roundtrip
• Speedboat: 500,000-600,000 VND ($20-25) round-trip
• Private charter: 7,500,000-18,500,000 VND (full boat, not per person)

All prices include the mandatory 70,000 VND conservation fee.

Q: Do I need to book the ferry in advance?

A: Depends on when you're visiting:

• March-August weekends: Yes, book 1-2 days ahead (boats fill up)
• March-August weekdays: Usually okay to buy same-day
• September-February: Rarely needed (low season)
• Vietnamese holidays (Tet, etc.): Absolutely book ahead (1 week minimum)
  
  

Where to book: Online (Klook, Viator) or directly at Cua Dai Pier

Q: What time does the ferry leave for Cham Island?

A:

• Public ferry: Single departure at 8:00-8:30 AM
• Speedboat: Multiple departures (8:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 1:30 PM, 2:00 PM)

Return from island:

• Ferry: 11:00 AM-1:00 PM
• Speedboat: 1:00 PM, 2:30 PM

Schedules change based on weather. Always confirm at pier morning-of.

Q: Can I get seasick on the Cham Island ferry?

A: Public ferry: Low risk (slow, stable boat, calm waters March-August). Speedboat: Medium-high risk (bouncy, especially on windy days)

Prevention:

• Take Dramamine 30 minutes before departure
• Sit in middle of boat (less motion than front/back)
• Look at horizon, not your phone
• Eat light breakfast (empty stomach = worse nausea)

Ground Reality: In dry season (March-August), seasickness is rare. In rainy season (Sept-Feb), expect rougher rides.

Q: Is the Cham Island ferry safe?

A: Yes, very safe.

• All boats provide life jackets
• Captains are licensed, experienced
• Zero accidents on record for tourist ferries
• Boats are inspected regularly

Weather cancellations (common Sept-Feb during typhoon season).

Q: What should I bring on the ferry to Cham Island?

A: Essential items:

• Sunscreen (reef-safe only. regular sunscreen is banned)
• Hat + sunglasses (sun is intense on open water)
• Water bottle (1L minimum)
• Light jacket (ferry can be breezy, especially mornings)
• Snacks (limited expensive options on island)
• Cash (1,000,000-1,200,000 VND for full day. no ATMs on island)
• Seasickness medication (if you're prone)
• Waterproof phone case (for photos, occasional spray)

Optional but recommended:

• Change of clothes (if you plan to swim/snorkel)
• Towel (beaches don't provide them)
• Dry bag (protects valuables from water)

Q: Can I bring my motorbike on the ferry?

A: Public ferry: Yes, extra fee of 100,000 VND. Speedboat: No (weight restrictions)

Ground Reality: Most travelers don't bring bikes. Island is small—walking + occasional motorbike taxi (50,000-100,000 VND) is easier than dealing with ferry bike transport.

Q: Are there toilets on the ferry?

A: Public ferry: Usually no toilets (some larger boats have one). Speedboat: No toilets (ride is only 25 minutes)

What to do: Use bathroom at Cua Dai Pier before boarding. There's a public restroom near the ticket counters.

Q: Can I take the ferry if I'm pregnant?

A: Public ferry: Generally safe (smooth ride, but check with doctor). Speedboat: Not recommended (bumpy, jarring motion)

If you're in 3rd trimester: Most doctors advise against boat travel. Check with your OB-GYN first.

Q: Can I bring kids on the Cham Island ferry?

A: Yes, kids are welcome.

• Life jackets provided (adult sizes + kids sizes)
• No age restrictions
• Kids under 1 meter tall ride free (must sit on parent's lap)

Best boat for kids:

• Public ferry (slower, more stable, less scary for young kids)
• Speedboat might frighten kids under 5 (noise, bouncing)

Bring snacks, water, and entertainment (phone/tablet). 60-minute ferry ride can feel long for restless kids.

Q: What if the ferry gets cancelled due to weather?

A: You receive 100% refund (no fees). Can rebook for next available day (no extra charge). You can switch ferry - speedboat (pay/refund price difference)

How often this happens:

• March-August: 5% cancellation rate (very rare)
• September-February: 40-60% cancellation rate (common!)

What to do: Check weather forecast 48 hours before. If typhoon warnings exist, postpone trip.

Q: How do I get from Da Nang to Cham Island?

A: Three options:

1. Organized tour (easiest):

• Book "Cham Island day tour" from Da Nang hotel
• Includes transport + ferry + sometimes lunch
• Cost: $35-65 per person

2. Drive yourself:

• Rent motorbike (100K VND/day) + drive 45km to Cua Dai Pier
• Takes 60-70 minutes
• Then buy ferry ticket at pier

3. Private taxi:

• 1,200,000-1,800,000 VND for car + driver (full day)
• Good for groups splitting cost

My recommendation: Book organized tour from Da Nang. DIY logistics are complicated.

Q: Is snorkeling equipment included in the ferry price?

A: No. Ferry ticket covers: Boat ride (round-trip), Conservation fee, Life jacket

Not included: Snorkel equipment (rent separately: 200,000 VND). Lunch on island. Beach activities

Where to rent snorkel gear: Shops near Bai Lang pier or book guided snorkel tour (includes equipment).

Q: Can I visit Cham Island without taking the ferry?

A: No. Cham Island is only accessible by boat. There's no bridge, no airport, no other transport.

Your options: Public ferry / Speedboat / Private charter

That's it.

Q: How long should I spend on Cham Island?

A: Depends on what you want to do:

Half-day (3-4 hours):

• Realistic: Quick snorkel + lunch + beach walk
• Feels rushed but doable

Full day (6-8 hours):

• Realistic: Snorkel 2 spots + lunch + beach relaxation + pagoda visit
• Recommended for first-time visitors

Overnight:

• Possible (basic bungalows available, 300,000-600,000 VND per night)
• Best for: People who want complete solitude after day-trippers leave at 1 PM

My recommendation: Full day. You paid for ferry so maximize the experience.

Q: Is Cham Island worth visiting?

A: Honest answer: Yes, if you set proper expectations.

You'll love it if:

• You enjoy snorkeling/diving (this is the main attraction)
• You want a break from crowded Hoi An
• You appreciate natural beauty over built-up attractions
• You're okay with basic facilities (this isn't a resort island)

You might be disappointed if:
- You expect pristine, empty beaches (there are other tourists)
- You don't snorkel/dive (the island's main appeal is underwater)
- You want luxury amenities (food, lodging, activities are all basic)
- You're visiting in rainy season (weather ruins the experience)

Value assessment: 500,000-600,000 VND for ferry + day of activities = good value if you love nature/snorkeling. Not worth it if you're just checking a box.

Q: Can I swim at Cham Island?

A: Yes. All four main beaches allow swimming:

• Bai Lang: Safest (shallow, lifeguards sometimes present)
• Bai Bac: Good for snorkeling while swimming
• Bai Chong: Clean water, moderate depth
• Bai Ong: Most remote, swim at your own risk

Warning: No lifeguards at most beaches. Swim at your own risk. Don't swim alone.

Q: What language do they speak on Cham Island?

A: Vietnamese only. Download Google Translate offline Vietnamese before going. Screenshot important phrases like "How much?" and "Where is bathroom?"

Q: Is there WiFi on Cham Island?

A: Spotty at best.

• Some cafes near Bai Lang have WiFi (slow, unreliable)
• Most of island has no WiFi
• Cell phone signal: Works at Bai Lang pier, weak/nonexistent elsewhere

Plan accordingly: Download maps, guides, and entertainment before boarding ferry.

Q: Can I use USD on Cham Island?

A: No. Vietnamese Dong (VND) only. Restaurants don't accept USD. Snorkel shops don't accept USD. No currency exchange on island.

What to do: Withdraw VND in Hoi An before ferry. Budget 1,000,000-1,200,000 VND for full day.

Q: Are there ATMs on Cham Island?

A: No ATMs on the island.

Where to get cash:

• Hoi An Ancient Town (many ATMs)
• Near Cua Dai Pier (one ATM in parking area which sometimes runs out of cash on weekends)

Withdraw more than you think you'll need. Better to have extra than run out mid-day.

Q: What if I miss the return ferry?

A: Here are your options:

• Option 1: Pay for next available speedboat (usually 2-3 hours later)
• Option 2: Stay overnight (basic guesthouses available)
• Option 3: Negotiate private boat return (expensive: 1,500,000+ VND)

Set phone alarm 30 minutes before return time. Ferry won't wait.

Q: Can I bring alcohol on the ferry?

A:

• Technically not prohibited
• But drinking on ferry isn't allowed (safety reasons)
• You can bring sealed bottles to consume on island

Ground Reality: No one checks your bag. But don't be the drunk tourist causing problems.

Q: Is Cham Island good for honeymoons?

A: Good for honeymoon if:

• You want quiet, natural, low-key romance
• You enjoy snorkeling together
• You're okay with basic accommodations
• You can appreciate simplicity over luxury

Not ideal if:

• You want resort style pampering (Cham Island is rustic)
• You expect fine dining (food is fresh but simple)
• You need spa, bars, nightlife (none of this exists)

Alternative: Stay at nice Hoi An resort, do Cham Island as day trip. Best of both worlds.