On the morning of March 29, Saigon port was bustling with the sound of ship whistles, marking the first voyage of "Phu Quy Express" from the center of Ho Chi Minh City to the legendary Con Dao island. Completely different from previous ship routes, which departed from remote locations such as Vung Tau or Soc Trang, being able to set foot on the ship right in the center of District 4 has aroused curiosity and eagerness to explore in the hearts of tourists.
The prime location of Saigon Port, only 10-15 minutes away from the inner city districts, has created an undeniable competitive advantage. Along with attractive ticket prices, only half of those of airfare, "Phu Quy Express" quickly became the center of attention for those who are planning to come to Con Dao.
On the morning of March 29, the Phu Quy Express high-speed train officially ran its first trip from Ho Chi Minh City to Con Dao.
Previously, in May 2024, the high-speed ferry route from Ho Chi Minh City to Con Dao was inaugurated, however, the departure point was located at Hiep Phuoc port, Nha Be district. Although highly appreciated for its speed and quality, this ferry route encountered major obstacles in terms of travel distance from the city center to the port, as well as inconveniences in transit.
Now, with the departure of the Phu Quy Express from Saigon Port, those difficulties have been completely resolved. Passengers no longer have to worry about long distance travel or waiting time, but can easily access the ship and start their journey.
Being able to start right from the center of District 4, without having to go to Vung Tau or Soc Trang, has made many people curious and eager to experience it.
"Phu Quy Express" has a modern design with a length of 39 meters, a width of 11 meters, and a capacity of up to 374 passengers, including 279 beds. The passenger compartment is equipped with amenities such as soft leather seats, privacy curtains, convenient power outlets, and safe life jacket storage compartments. Each floor has entertainment TV, clean restrooms, fire protection systems and surveillance cameras to ensure security.
In addition, the ship also has a separate premium seating area, along with a canteen serving snacks and drinks, meeting the needs of passengers throughout the trip. The second floor is designed as an open space, allowing passengers to admire the vast ocean view and enjoy the fresh air.
Tourists are excited to experience the high-speed train route from Saigon center to Con Dao
Regarding ticket prices, the company has proposed the cheapest weekday seat ticket price (from Monday to Thursday) to be 720,000 VND/ticket for disabled people; 810,000 VND/ticket for elderly and children; 990,000 VND/ticket for general passengers. For sleeper tickets, the price will be 800,000 VND/ticket for disabled people; 970,000 VND/ticket for children and elderly; 1,150,000 VND/general passenger ticket. The VIP class on weekdays costs 1,250,000 VND/ticket. Ticket prices on weekends are higher, with seat tickets ranging from 790,000 - 1,090,000 VND/ticket. For sleeper tickets, the price will range from 880,000 - 1,370,000 VND/ticket.
Children, seniors and people with disabilities are entitled to special preferential fares. The fare includes taxes, port fees and shuttle bus service from the pier gate to the ship. In particular, the use of electronic tickets makes the payment and boarding process faster and more convenient.
The ship is invested with modern facilities.
Compared to the airfare from Ho Chi Minh City to Con Dao, which usually fluctuates around 2 million VND/way, the high-speed boat "Phu Quy Express" offers a significantly economical option. However, the travel time of about 6 hours and 50 minutes, longer than the original estimate of 5 hours and 30 minutes, may be a factor that makes many people hesitate.
According to the announcement from the operator, the journey lasts about 5 hours and 30 minutes.
However, with modern facilities, reasonable prices and convenient departure location, "Phu Quy Express" is still a worthy choice for those who want to explore the beauty of Con Dao. The experience of lying on the boat, watching the vast ocean and enjoying the journey is also a great way to relax and enjoy the trip.
