Cham Island to Hoi An: Complete guide on travel

Cham Island, famous for its clear blue waters, white sandy beaches, and rich coral ecosystems, is an ideal destination for sea and island lovers. Many visitors, after exploring the island, choose to return to Hoi An to enjoy the charming ancient town, taste local cuisine, and experience the vibrant yet peaceful atmosphere. Understanding the travel options, timing, and practical tips will make your journey from Cham Island to Hoi An smooth, convenient, and memorable.

Distance and travel time from Cham Island to Hoi An

Cham Island is one of the most outstanding destinations in Central Vietnam, often called a paradise island near Hoi An with its clear blue waters, white sandy beaches, and rich coral reef ecosystem. The island attracts not only those who love swimming and snorkeling but also travelers who want to experience the unique local culture and the peaceful daily life of the islanders. Many visitors who explore Cham Island often choose to return to Hoi An to further discover the ancient town, enjoy local cuisine, and combine cultural and historical experiences in this vibrant city.

To travel from Cham Island back to Hoi An, your journey also includes two main legs:

• From Cham Island to Cua Dai Port: The distance from the island to the mainland ranges from 18–23 km, tùy vào loại tàu bạn chọn. Speedboat is the fastest option, taking 20–30 minutes to reach Cua Dai Port. If you prefer a calmer, more scenic trip, the wooden ferry offers a slower but pleasant ride of about 50–60 minutes.
• From Cua Dai Port to central Hoi An: Once you arrive at the port, it’s about 8–9 km to the center of Hoi An. You can take a taxi, motorbike, or private transfer, with a travel time of 15–20 minutes. If your destination is Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort, it’s conveniently located and only around 10 minutes from Cua Dai Port, making the return journey smooth and easy.

For convenience and time efficiency, travelers can use the transportation service from Bliss Hoi An, which provides pick-up and drop-off from the resort to the port, making the Cham Island to Hoi An journey easier and more enjoyable.

Read more: Cham islands from Hoi An: How to come from Hoi An to Cham islands

Leg 1: Traveling from Cham Island to Cua Dai Port

To return from Cham Island to Hoi An, travelers first need to go from the island back to Cua Dai Port, the main gateway connecting Cham Island with the mainland. The distance from the island to the port ranges from 18–23 km, depending on the departure point on Cham Island. Before boarding, travelers should prepare the required environmental protection and entrance fees (around 70,000 VND per person), usually settled before leaving the island. During the peak tourist season or weekends, booking boat tickets in advance is highly recommended to avoid delays.

Transportation options from Cham Island to Cua Dai Port include:

• Speedboat:
  The fastest and most popular choice for returning to Hoi An. The journey takes 20–30 minutes, with multiple departures throughout the morning. Round-trip tickets usually fall within the 300,000–500,000 VND range depending on the time of return and travel date.

• Wooden Ferry:
  A slower but more relaxed option, taking 50–60 minutes to reach Cua Dai Port. It’s ideal for travelers who want to bring motorbikes or bicycles back to the mainland. One-way tickets typically cost 100,000–150,000 VND, depending on the vessel and departure schedule.

• Private / Charter Boat:
  Suitable for groups or families seeking a flexible return time and a more private experience. Travel time is similar to speedboats, around 20–30 minutes. Charter prices often start from 5,000,000 VND for 5 hours, depending on the agreement with the boat operator.

With clear schedules and multiple options, the return trip from Cham Island to Cua Dai Port is smooth and convenient for travelers of all preferences.

Leg 2: Traveling from Cua Dai Port to Hoi An

After arriving at Cua Dai Port, travelers can easily head back to central Hoi An or return to their accommodation. The port is located at the end of Au Co and Lac Long Quan streets, providing quick access to major areas in the city. From here, it is approximately 8–9 km to Hoi An Ancient Town, with a travel time of 15–20 minutes depending on traffic and transportation choice.

Transportation options from the port to Hoi An include:

• Taxi or Private Car:
  The most convenient choice, especially for groups or families with luggage. The ride takes 15–20 minutes, offering a fast and hassle-free way to reach Hoi An.

• Motorbike or Bicycle Rental:
  Perfect for travelers who enjoy flexibility. The well-paved coastal route back to the ancient town offers scenic views, making it a great choice for those who want to take photos along the way.

• Bus / Shuttle Service:
  Currently, shuttle services between Cua Dai and Hoi An are unstable. Travelers who prefer public transport should check locally or consider alternatives.

• Resort Pick-Up Service (Transportation Service):
  Many resorts, including Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness, provide transportation services from the port. This is the most comfortable option if you stay at Bliss Hoi An, as the resort is only about 10 minutes from Cua Dai Port, making the return journey quick and seamless.

With a short distance and flexible transport options, traveling from Cua Dai Port back to Hoi An is simple and straightforward, ensuring a smooth end to your Cham Island adventure.

Best time to visit Cham Island

Planning your trip to Cham Island carefully will help you make the most of its natural beauty and avoid disruptions due to weather. The island enjoys a tropical monsoon climate, which means that the sea conditions and overall comfort can vary greatly depending on the season. Understanding the best time to visit ensures you can enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, beach activities, and sightseeing without unnecessary delays or safety risks.

Ideal months to visit:

• March to August: This is the best period to explore Cham Island. The weather is sunny, the sea is calm, and the sky is clear, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and relaxing on pristine beaches. Average temperatures range from 28–33°C, and the warm, clear water offers excellent visibility of the coral reefs. Travelers can also combine a same-day trip back to Hoi An easily during this season.
• September to November: This period corresponds to the rainy season and occasional storms in Central Vietnam. Rough seas and strong waves may cause delays or cancellations of speedboats and ferries. Visiting the island during these months is generally not recommended, unless you plan to stay overnight and are prepared for possible weather disruptions.
• December to February: Cooler temperatures and less sunlight characterize this period. The sea may be slightly choppy, but it is still possible to visit the island if you prefer a quieter experience with fewer tourists. It is advisable to wear warmer clothing and monitor weather forecasts closely.

Tips for returning to Hoi An:

• If traveling by speedboat, same-day return is usually convenient, but in case of storms or rough seas, some trips may be delayed or canceled. Overnight stay on the island can be considered as a backup.
• Travelers using the wooden ferry should plan their schedule carefully, as the slower journey and rough sea conditions may affect the trip. For those combining Cham Island with a visit to Hoi An Ancient Town, an early departure from Cua Dai Port is recommended.
• Always check weather forecasts and updates from transport providers to ensure a safe and smooth journey.

In summary, March to August is the ideal period for a full and enjoyable Cham Island experience, with calm seas, sunny weather, and convenient travel back to Hoi An. The other months require careful planning, particularly during the stormy season, to ensure safety and comfort.

Read more: Cham islands day trip: Discover paradise in one day

FAQs – Frequently asked questions about traveling from Hoi An to Cham Island

Returning from Cham Island to Hoi An is a smooth and straightforward journey, but travelers, especially first-timers, often have similar questions about boat schedules, travel time, transportation options, and weather-related issues. The FAQs below summarize the most practical information to help you plan your return trip with confidence.

1. How long does it take to travel from Cham Island back to Hoi An?
The travel time normally ranges from 35 to 80 minutes, depending on your mode of transport. Speedboats take 20–30 minutes to reach Cua Dai Port, while wooden ferries need 50–60 minutes. From the port to Hoi An center, the trip takes an additional 15–20 minutes.

2. What is the earliest and latest boat departure from Cham Island?
Most speedboats operate from 7:00 AM to around 2:00 PM, depending on sea conditions. Wooden ferries usually depart between 7:30–8:00 AM. There are no evening departures for safety reasons.

3. Do I need to book my return ticket in advance?
Yes. During peak months (March–September), it’s recommended to book early to secure a seat, especially if you plan to return at a specific time. Weather changes can also affect boat availability.

4. How much does it cost to return from Cham Island to Hoi An?
Speedboat round-trip tickets cost around 300,000–500,000 VND, while wooden ferry tickets range from 100,000–150,000 VND per person. Charter boats start from 5,000,000 VND per trip.

5. Can I bring a motorbike back from Cham Island?
Yes. Wooden ferries allow motorbikes and bicycles on board. Speedboats, however, generally do not transport motorbikes.

6. What should I prepare before returning to Hoi An?
It’s important to keep your:

• Return boat ticket

• Environmental/entrance fee receipt

• Waterproof bags for electronics

• Updated weather information

7. How far is Cua Dai Port from Hoi An Ancient Town?
Approximately 8–9 km, taking 15–20 minutes by taxi, motorbike, or private transfer.

8. Is transportation available at Cua Dai Port?
Yes. Taxis, private cars, motorbike rentals, and resort pick-up services are available. If you’re staying at Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort, the ride back takes only around 10 minutes.

9. Is it safe to return during the rainy or stormy season?
Boat schedules depend on sea conditions. From October to January, rough waves may cause delays or cancellations. Travelers should confirm the schedule one day before departure.

10. Can I return to Hoi An and continue sightseeing on the same day?
Definitely. With short travel times and morning-to-afternoon boat schedules, you can easily return and continue exploring Hoi An without rushing.

The trip from Cham Island to Hoi An offers a chance to enjoy the island’s natural beauty and explore the ancient town of Hoi An. With options like speedboats, wooden ferries, and private boats, combined with tips on timing and practical considerations, you can plan a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable journey. Don’t forget to take advantage of the transportation service from Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort to save time and enjoy a more convenient travel experience.