Cham Island Ferry - Routes, Schedules & Travel Tips

Cu Lao Cham, or Cham Island, is the greater, hidden spot just off the coastline of Hoi An in Vietnam. It has a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve covering stunning beaches with vibrant marine life and some real cultural experiences.
The Cham Island ferry runs daily from Hoi An to the Cham Islands, offering an affordable way to reach this UNESCO marine reserve. 

If you are planning to visit, knowing the ferry options is super important for a hassle-free trip. Wondering which boat to take? Read on!

Getting to Cham Island

Your tour to Cham Island will begin from Cua Dai Pier, which is a 20-minute drive from the Ancient Town of Hoi An. You may take a taxi or Grab to the port for about 150,000 VND-that's $6.50. Closer to Hoi An's center is An Hoi Pier; fewer boats leave from this one, though.

Types of ferry services & Cham Islands ferry schedule

Public Ferry Old-School Wooden Boat

This leaves daily around 8:00-8:30 a.m. from the Cua Dai Pier.

• Duration: About 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on weather conditions.

• Cost: 100,000-150,000 VND ($4-$6.50) per person, plus 70,000 VND ($3) for a marine conservation fee.

• Details: It's a much slower, longer ride and is a little more laid-back in nature; great for those enjoying a view of the water and the surrounding islands. It is cheaper and you can carry a bicycle or scooter on board for an extra charge (50,000 VND).
  
  Note: If you want to catch ferry from An Hoi pier - the ferry depart this Hoi An harbor around 7:00-7:30 AM

Speedboats

• Schedule: Multiple daily departures, from around 8:00 a.m.

• Duration: Approximately 20 to 30 minutes.

• Price: 300,000-450,000 VND (~$13-$18), round trip, conservation fees included.

• Details: The motorboats are super fast but sometimes a bit bumpy, especially on a windy day. They're also great for people not having a lot of time or just wanting an exhilarating experience.

Private Charters

• Price: 5,000,000 VND (~$215) and upwards for a group, by arrangement.

• Details: Ideal for families or groups seeking privacy, private charters offer flexible itineraries and a premium experience. We highly recommend this option if you are travelling with your significant other and want some chill time without rush.

More of Cham Island

The Hoi An Cham Island ferry docks at Bai Lang Village, the island's central hub where the local shops, restaurants, and even the Cham Island Museum are found, showcasing the region for its biodiversity and cultural history. If you want to go a bit further afield, take a local boat onward to Bai Huong, a more traditionally oriented fishing village, or rent a motorbike taxi to access far-flung beaches such as Bai Chong or Bai Ong.

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.

Traveling Tips

Cham Island’s coral reefs are teeming with colorful fish, making it a snorkeler’s paradise so you can definitely consider adding a snorkeling stop at Bai Bac (I did!). 

Best Time to Visit: From March to September, the sea is calm and the sun shines. Avoid the rainy season, from October to February, as ferry schedules often get disrupted.

Bookings should be done in advance, especially for weekends or holidays, since ferries fill up rather quickly. Speedboats you could still find if not booked in advance but they are costlier. Note that ferry schedules can change, so confirm times at the Cua Dai port.

What to bring: sunscreen, water bottle, snacks, camera, and light clothes, wear comfortable shoes either for walking or at the beach.

Respect nature: Cham Island is a protected area. Do not litter. Follow all the rules of eco-tourism.

Ferry vs. Speedboat: Which to Choose?

For a leisurely experience, choose the ferry as sometimes there is quite a bit of hassle in speed boat booking. For speed and convenience, opt for the speedboat to Cham island. Personally, we would choose the ferry as it gives some time to enjoy the surroundings and take nice shots on our camera especially during sunset when the views are epic!