My Journey Traveling from Can Tho to Phu Quoc - All the Details You Need to Know
Breaking News: Direct Flights Are Back!
First things first - exciting update for travelers! Direct flights between Can Tho and Phu Quoc has resumed in October 2024. At the time I was travelling from Can Tho to Phu Quoc, direct flights had been temporarily suspended. Let me share the current travel routes I explored.
Travel Routes to Phu Quoc
1. Can Tho - Rach Gia - Phu Quoc Route
Total Travel Time: Approximately 4.5 hours Highlights:
- 2-hour bus ride from Can Tho to Rach Gia
- 20-minute terminal transfer
- 2.5-hour high-speed ferry to Phu Quoc
2. Can Tho - Ha Tien - Phu Quoc Route
Total Travel Time: Around 5 hours
Challenges:
- No direct bus from Can Tho to Ha Tien
- Requires multiple transportation changes
3. Ho Chi Minh City Transit Route
Total Travel Time: 1 hour Best For: Those wanting a more straightforward journey
- 1-hour flight to Phu Quoc
My Route: Can Tho - Rach Gia - Phu Quoc
I chose the Rach Gia route and here's my detailed experience:
Choosing a Bus Company
I recommend two reliable operators:
- Phuong Trang
- Vu Linh
Pro Tip: Taxi transfer between terminals costs around 1.1-1.3 million VND (60-70,000 won).
The Bus Journey
I opted for Vu Linh, traveling in a small van. The driver was quick, and we reached Rach Gia in about 2 hours. Interestingly, the staff immediately transferred us to another van, clearly recognizing we were heading to the ferry terminal.
Navigating Rach Gia
Important Note: There's no Grab service here. If you're unsure about directions, simply say "Bến Tàu" (ferry terminal) to locals.
Ferry Details
Ticket Purchase: www.phuquocexpress.com
Departure Times:
- Rach Gia to Phu Quoc: 07:00 / 10:20 / 13:00
- Phu Quoc to Rach Gia: 07:10 / 10:00 / 13:20
Ticket Prices:
- Standard Seat: 315,000 VND (17,000 won)
- VIP Seat: 500,000 VND (26,000 won)
Travel Hacks and Personal Experiences
On the Ferry
- Try to book window seats for USB charging
- Wi-Fi might be unreliable
- Book early, especially for VIP seats
Phu Quoc Terminal Challenges
- The terminal is quite far from the main road
- Be prepared for potential transportation issues
Unexpected Adventures
During my return trip, I encountered heavy rain. When struggling to reach the ferry, local motorcycle taxi drivers offered rides for just 10,000 VND per person - a lifesaver!
Final Thoughts
Traveling from Can Tho to Phu Quoc requires some planning and flexibility. Each route has its pros and cons, but with the right preparation, you'll enjoy a smooth journey to this beautiful island.
Safe travels, and enjoy Phu Quoc!