Vung Tau Hydrofoil Guide: Sustainable Travel from Ho Chi Minh City

A Scenic Coastal Journey

Vung Tau, now a vibrant ward of Ho Chi Minh City following Vietnam’s administrative merger effective July 2025, lies 95 km southeast of Ward 1 (formerly District 1), attracting over 2 million visitors annually for its 42-km coastline and attractions like Back Beach. Hydrofoils offer a fast, scenic, and eco-friendly way to reach Vung Tau, covering the 90-km waterway in 1.5–2 hours along the Saigon River. Tickets cost $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND) one-way, with a tropical monsoon climate (dry season: November–April, 22–28°C or 71.6–82.4°F; rainy season: May–October, 24–32°C or 75.2–89.6°F) ensuring pleasant journeys.

Hydrofoils reduce road congestion and emissions compared to cars, aligning with Ho Chi Minh City’s “Green Metropolis” initiative. The open-deck experience provides stunning river and coastal views, ideal for photography. Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours complement your hydrofoil trip, offering eco-conscious explorations of Vung Tau’s cultural and natural sites. Book via links on this page or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Administrative Note

Vietnam’s administrative reform has merged Ba Ria - Vung Tau into Ho Chi Minh City, reclassifying Vung Tau as a ward. Use “Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh City” for seamless navigation with ward-based maps.

Legend Travel Group, a pioneer in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism with over 17 years of experience, enhances your hydrofoil journey with eco-friendly tours, perfect for exploring Vung Tau’s beaches and landmarks. Our low-impact transport, like electric shuttles, and English-speaking guides highlight sustainable practices, local culture, and ecosystems. Supporting coastal communities, we align with Ho Chi Minh City’s sustainability goals. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless trip. Book our eco-tours via links on this page for a responsible adventure!

Hydrofoil services, operating since the 1990s, provide a smooth, scenic alternative to road travel, serving over 100,000 passengers annually. Departing from Ho Chi Minh City’s Bach Dang Wharf, these high-speed ferries navigate the Saigon River and open sea, offering air-conditioned cabins and open decks. GreenlinesDP, a leading operator, uses modern, fuel-efficient vessels, reducing environmental impact. Pairing a hydrofoil trip with sustainable activities like cycling or seafood dining in Vung Tau creates an eco-friendly getaway, just 1.5 hours from Ward 1.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Choose Your Operator:

   • GreenlinesDP: Eco-friendly, modern ferries with 50–150 seats. Cost: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND) one-way; children under 6 free if sharing a seat. Amenities: AC, Wi-Fi, snacks, toilets.

   • Vina Express: Reliable service with similar pricing and amenities. Cost: $10–$15 one-way. Amenities: AC, open deck, basic snacks.

2. Book Your Ticket:

   • Purchase online via GreenlinesDP’s platform or booking apps like Vexere or Baolau for real-time schedules and e-tickets.

   • Buy at Bach Dang Wharf (2 Ton Duc Thang, Ward Ben Nghe, Ward 1) or Cau Da Port (12/1 Tran Phu, Vung Tau, Ward 5).

   • Cost: $10–$15 one-way; $20–$30 round-trip. Book 1–2 days ahead for weekends or holidays; prices may rise 20% during Lunar New Year.

   • Payment: Cash at terminals; online via Momo, ZaloPay, or cards.

3. Board at Bach Dang Wharf:

   • Arrive 30 minutes early (terminal opens 6:00 AM–5:00 PM).

   • Ferries depart daily at 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 4:30 PM; extra trips at 9:00 AM on Saturdays and 3:00 PM on Sundays.

   • Confirm “Cau Da Port, Vung Tau” as your destination.

4. Journey Details:

   • Duration: 1.5–2 hours, covering 90 km via Saigon River and open sea.

   • Route: Departs Bach Dang Wharf, sails past District 4’s port, and reaches Vung Tau’s Cau Da Port near Front Beach.

   • Drop-off: Cau Da Port, 5-minute xe om ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND) or taxi ($2–$4 or 50,000–100,000 VND) to Vung Tau’s center.

   • Enjoy river views, port activity, and open-sea breezes; snacks ($0.50–$2) and drinks ($0.50–$1) available onboard.

5. Return Trip:

   • Ferries depart Cau Da Port at 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 4:30 PM; extra Sunday trip at 3:00 PM.

   • Book return tickets online or at Cau Da Port to avoid reported scams of “sold-out” tickets.

Eco-Friendly Note

Hydrofoils emit less CO2 per passenger than private cars, supporting sustainable travel. Bring reusable water bottles and avoid plastic snacks to minimize waste.

Safety Tips

• Check weather forecasts; ferries may cancel during storms (July–September).

• Wear life vests (provided onboard) during open-sea segments (20 minutes).

• Secure valuables; confirm ticket details (time, destination) before boarding.

• Avoid hydrofoils if prone to seasickness; consider buses as an alternative.

• GreenlinesDP:

  • Departures from Ho Chi Minh City: 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 4:30 PM; Saturday extra at 9:00 AM.

  • Departures from Vung Tau: 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 4:30 PM; Sunday extra at 3:00 PM.

  • Price: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND) one-way; $20–$30 round-trip. Children (6–11): $5–$7.50 (125,000–187,500 VND).

  • Duration: 1.5–2 hours.

• Vina Express:

  • Departures: Same schedule as GreenlinesDP.

  • Price: $10–$15 one-way; $20–$30 round-trip. Children (6–11): $5–$7.50.

  • Duration: 1.5–2 hours.

• Note: Prices may increase 20% during holidays; check Vexere or GreenlinesDP for updates.

• Dry Season (November–April): Calm seas, sunny skies, and mild temperatures (22–28°C or 71.6–82.4°F) ensure smooth rides. November–December are coolest; March–April warmest. Weekdays (5,000–15,000 visitors) are less crowded than weekends (50,000–100,000).

• Rainy Season (May–October): Warmer (24–32°C or 75.2–89.6°F) with afternoon showers; seas may be choppy during storms (July–September). Fewer crowds, but check weather to avoid cancellations. May and October offer milder conditions.

• Avoid: Lunar New Year (January–February) for fewer crowds; July–September for safer seas. Depart early (8:00–10:00 AM) to avoid traffic at Bach Dang Wharf and enjoy cooler weather.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable trip:

• Clothing: Light layers, non-slip shoes; waterproof jacket ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for rainy season; hat for open deck.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses.

• Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5), hand sanitizer ($0.50 or 12,500 VND).

• Tech Gear: Smartphone with GreenlinesDP/Vexere apps, offline maps (Maps.me), portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($5–$10).

• Travel Gear: Small backpack, motion sickness medication if needed.

• Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for snacks ($1–$2); biodegradable wipes.

• Extras: Camera for river views; cash for onboard snacks or xe om.

Costs for Hydrofoil Travel and Vung Tau Activities

Transportation (Round-Trip, from Ward 1)

• Hydrofoil (GreenlinesDP/Vina Express): $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND).

• Xe Om/Taxi from Cau Da Port: $2–$8 (50,000–200,000 VND) round-trip.

• Airport to Bach Dang Wharf (Taxi): $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• SIM Card: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

Sample Activities in Vung Tau

• Christ the King Statue: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

• Vung Tau Lighthouse: $1 (25,000 VND).

• Banh Khot at Tran Phu Market: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Kayak Rental: $4–$7 (100,000–175,000 VND).

• Drinks (Water, Coffee): $0.30–$1 (7,000–25,000 VND).

• Guided Eco-Tour: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost (Per Person, Including Transport)

• Budget: $15–$25 (hydrofoil, market dining, free attractions).

• Mid-range: $30–$50 (hydrofoil, activities, guided tour).

• Luxury: $60–$80 (hydrofoil, taxi, premium dining).

• Tip: Budget for hydrofoil ($20–$30) and activities ($1–$25); carry cash for vendors (no cards accepted).

• Timing: Depart 8:00–10:00 AM for calm seas; November–April for smooth rides. Weekdays for fewer crowds (5,000–15,000 vs. 50,000–100,000 on weekends). Avoid July–September storms and Lunar New Year for availability.

• Booking: Buy tickets online via GreenlinesDP or Vexere 1–2 days ahead; arrive 30 minutes early at Bach Dang Wharf. Book return tickets to avoid scams.

• Sustainability: Choose hydrofoils over cars for lower emissions; bring reusable items. Support local vendors for snacks ($0.50–$2).

• Navigation: Save “Cau Da Port, Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh City” in offline maps; confirm “Vung Tau” with ticket agents. Ask locals at Cau Da Port for xe om directions.

• Safety: Check life vests onboard; avoid open deck during rough seas. Secure bags at crowded wharfs.

• Weather: Dry season for clear views; rainy season needs rain gear ($2–$5) and waterproof bags ($3–$7). Monitor AccuWeather for storm alerts.

• Cultural Respect: Greet staff with “xin chào”; respect onboard etiquette. Avoid loud talking on ferries.

• Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50); carry hand sanitizer for wharf hygiene.

Our eco-friendly tours enhance your hydrofoil journey:

• Vung Tau Coastal Eco-Tour ($60–$90/person, 1 day): Hydrofoil transfer, Back Beach, Christ the King Statue, and seafood lunch ($3–$7). Includes guide, transport.

• Vung Tau & Long Hai Retreat ($120–$180/person, 2 days): Hydrofoil, Long Hai Beach, homestay ($15–$30/night), White Palace. Includes meals, transport.

• Ho Chi Minh City & Coastal Journey ($280–$420/person, 3 days): Hydrofoil, Vung Tau, Can Gio Mangrove, eco-lodges. Includes meals, eco-transfers.

• Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links!

Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh City’s coastal ward, beckons with its beaches and cultural sites, just 95 km from Ward 1, reachable by eco-friendly hydrofoil in 1.5–2 hours for $10–$15 one-way, attracting over 2 million visitors yearly. GreenlinesDP’s fuel-efficient ferries offer scenic Saigon River views, supporting sustainable travel. Legend Travel Group’s Vung Tau Tours elevate your hydrofoil journey, ensuring a sustainable Vung Tau Travel experience guiding you through Vung Tau’s highlights like Tran Phu Market and Vung Tau Lighthouse. Whether enjoying sea breezes or exploring in the dry season, Vung Tau promises an unforgettable eco-adventure. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group today!
Ready to explore Vung Tau’s coastal wonders? Reserve your eco-friendly tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an authentic adventure!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.