Practical Travel Handbook: Thue Xe Da Nang Hoi An Cu Lao Cham

Cham Island — a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve located just 15km off the coast of Hoi An — is one of the most spectacular coral snorkeling destinations in central Vietnam. But to reach the island, you must complete the first crucial step: arriving at Cua Dai port in Hoi An on time for the speedboat. This is where a dedicated car from Da Nang becomes irreplaceable — not because of distance, but because of punctuality: the boat won’t wait, and if you miss the morning departure, you lose your entire island day.

This guide covers everything: a 2-step itinerary (car + boat), complete 2026 pricing, and essential preparations to ensure your island day runs smoothly from start to finish.

Overview of Da Nang → Cham Island Journey

Boat departure point: Cua Dai Port, Nguyen Phan Vinh Street, Hoi An City. This is also where the return boat arrives. Faifo Express will take you directly to the port entrance.

Learn more about the Da Nang – Hoi An route — 30km, 40 minutes, the first leg of your Cham Island journey.

Why You Need a Private Car for Cham Island

Many people wonder: if I’m taking a boat to the island, why do I need a special car? But here’s the reality:

Timing is everything: Speedboats departing in the morning typically leave at 7:30 or 8:00 AM — there’s no later departure that day. If you miss the morning boat, you lose your chance to visit the island that day.

Self-arranged transportation doesn’t guarantee punctuality:

• Taxis booked via app can’t be reserved for a specific time
• Public buses from Da Nang to Hoi An don’t go to Cua Dai; you’d need to change vehicles
• Rented motorbikes: 30km plus worrying about safe parking while you’re on the island all day

A pre-booked private car solves everything: The driver arrives on time, takes you directly to the port entrance, and you don’t worry about parking or transfers.

Detailed Itinerary: Da Nang – Hoi An – Cham Island 1-Day Trip

🌅 6:30 AM — Car Pickup in Da Nang

Your car picks you up at your location — hotel, airport, or city center. Don’t be late after 6:45 AM if your boat departs at 8:00 AM.

Important: Tell the driver your boat’s exact departure time and phone number as soon as you get in the car. The driver will time the journey accordingly.

🚢 7:15 AM — Arrive at Cua Dai Port, Complete Boat Check-In

Cua Dai port typically opens at 6:30 AM. You should arrive at least 30–45 minutes before your boat departure to:

• Collect or purchase boat tickets at the counter
• Store large luggage at the port’s storage facility (if needed)
• Buy water and sunscreen at nearby shops

Speedboat fare from Cua Dai to Cham Island: approximately 150,000 VND/person/way (reference price; may vary by operator and season).

🏝️ 8:00 AM — Boat Departs for Island (~20 Minutes)

Modern speedboat with canopy and comfortable seating. The journey across Cua Dai waters is typically smooth in normal weather conditions with minimal turbulence.

October–December is rough sea season; boats may be cancelled. Always check the weather forecast and contact the boat operator before booking your car.

🤿 8:30 AM–2:00 PM — Explore Cham Island

Cham Island comprises 8 small islands, with Hon Lao as the main island — home to Tan Hiep fishing village and most tourist services. During your 5–6 hours on the island, you can:

Swimming & coral snorkeling:

• Huong Beach — the island’s most beautiful beach with crystal-clear water and coral near shore
• Ong Beach — quieter, fewer crowds, ideal for relaxation
• Guided snorkeling (snorkeling tours): 250,000–400,000 VND/person with professional guides

Island dining:

• Fresh seafood: crabs, shrimp, squid, clams — affordable prices by weight at waterfront restaurants
• Grilled fish wrapped in rice paper, local clam rice — Cham Island specialties

Visit Tan Hiep fishing village:

• Historic temples and pagodas
• Small museum about Cham Island’s history and fishing community

Island transportation: electric vehicles (20,000–30,000 VND/person) or motorbike rental at the port (approximately 100,000 VND/day).

⛵ 2:30–3:00 PM — Return Boat to Cua Dai

The return boat typically departs from the island port at 2:00–3:00 PM. Don’t miss it — this is usually the last boat of the day. The return journey takes 20–25 minutes.

🚗 3:30 PM — Car Pickup at Cua Dai Port, Return to Da Nang

Your car will be waiting at Cua Dai port at the pre-arranged time. You’ll arrive back in Da Nang around 4:15–4:30 PM — plenty of time to rest before dinner.

Da Nang – Cua Dai / Hoi An Car Pricing 2026

Recommendation: If you want the car waiting at Cua Dai port to pick you up immediately after the boat arrives (rather than calling for a new car), book a round-trip when you reserve — avoiding the hassle of finding a car in Hoi An in the afternoon.

See full details at pricing table or learn more about airport transfer service if you’re flying to/from Da Nang the same day.

Estimated Cost Per Person (Reference)

5 Essential Tips You Can’t Miss

1. Book boat tickets BEFORE booking your car: Peak season boat tickets sell out fast. Confirm your boat time first, then book your car to ensure pickup at the right time.

2. Use high SPF sunscreen (SPF 50+): Seawater and sand reflect sunlight intensely — you’ll burn quickly even on cloudy days. Reapply after each swim.

3. Don’t bring plastic bags to the island: Cham Island is a biosphere reserve; plastic bags are prohibited. Use cloth bags or reusable containers.

4. Bring seasickness medication if prone to motion sickness: Although the journey is only 20 minutes, sea conditions can be choppy at times. Take medication 30 minutes before departure.

5. Wear a life jacket and follow snorkeling guide instructions: If snorkeling for the first time, stay close to your guide. Ocean currents around the island differ from typical beaches.