How Far is Con Co Island from the Mainland? Explore Quang Tri's Unspoiled Paradise

Con Co Island, located in Con Co Island District, Quang Tri Province, lies approximately 24 to 31 km from the mainland, equivalent to 13 to 17 nautical miles, depending on the mainland departure point. Specifically:

• From Mui Lay (Vinh Thach Commune, Vinh Linh District): The shortest distance is 13 nautical miles (about 24 km).
• From Cua Tung (Vinh Quang Commune, Vinh Linh District): About 15 nautical miles (about 28 km).
• From Cua Viet Port (Gio Viet Commune, Gio Linh District): About 17 nautical miles (about 31 km).

Travel time from the mainland to Con Co Island by speedboat usually takes around 40 minutes to 1 hour, depending on weather conditions and vessel type. Popular speedboats depart from Cua Viet Port, with fixed schedules on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays (to the island) and Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays (back to the mainland). 

Travel time by speedboat from Cua Viet Port to the island usually takes about 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on weather conditions and vessel type.

• Fast boats (such as ConCo Tourist): May take only about 40-60 minutes.
• Larger boats (such as Chin Nghia): May take 1 hour 30 minutes.

Note: The seas around Quang Tri can be choppy, especially during the monsoon season. If you are prone to seasickness, it is recommended to take seasickness medication at least 30-60 minutes in advance.

To explore Con Co Island, travelers need to go through two main stages: traveling from the mainland to Cua Viet Port and taking a speedboat to the island. Understanding the schedule, transport options, and travel times will make the journey smoother, especially for first-time independent travelers to Con Co.

Getting from the Mainland to Con Co Island

How to Get to Cua Viet Port

• From Dong Ha (Quang Tri):
  Cua Viet Port is about 30 km from central Dong Ha, taking around 40–60 minutes by taxi or motorbike taxi. Estimated taxi fare is around 300,000 – 400,000 VND/one way.
• From Other Provinces and Cities:
  • Sleeper / Express Bus: You can take a bus to Dong Ha, then get a ride to Cua Viet Port.
  • Train: Get off at Dong Ha Station, then continue by taxi or private transport.
  • Airplane: Travelers can fly to Phu Bai Airport (Hue) or Dong Hoi Airport (former Quang Binh), then travel by road to Quang Tri.

From Cua Viet Port to Con Co Island

Currently, the main means of transport to the island is by speedboat. Popular vessels include ConCo Tourist (approx. 80 passengers) and Chin Nghia boat (approx. 156 passengers).

• Reference Boat Schedule (subject to change depending on weather and tourist season)
• Reference Ticket Price:
  Ranges around 220,000 – 270,000 VND/one way. Visitors should book round-trip tickets in advance, especially during peak season or holidays.

Upon arrival on the island, visitors mainly move around by electric buggy or rented/borrowed motorbikes due to the hilly terrain and narrow roads. Preparing your itinerary and transportation in advance will help make your Con Co exploration smoother and more fulfilling.

Con Co still retains its wild charm and serves a strategic military function, so visitors should keep the following points in mind for a safe and comfortable trip:

• Advance Preparation: Book boat tickets and accommodation (homestays or guesthouses) before going, as services on the island are still limited.
• Personal Gear: Bring sunscreen, a hat, and long-sleeved clothing to protect your skin during outdoor activities.
• Environmental Protection: Limit plastic use and help preserve the island's clean, green, and beautiful scenery.
• Renting Transportation: On the island, bicycle rental (50,000 VND/day) or motorbike rental (150,000 VND/day) services are available for exploring.

Con Co Island is not only a tourist destination but also a place preserving profound historical and cultural values. Situated just 24–31 km from the mainland, you can easily explore an unspoiled paradise where nature and humanity harmonize. From primeval forests and turquoise beaches to meaningful historical sites, Con Co is bound to offer you a memorable journey.

Not everywhere retains its pristine beauty after years of waves and winds, but Con Co does. This small island remains as lush as ever, preserving its slow, peaceful pace of life like a cherished memory amidst the East Sea. If you are looking for a trip short enough not to be exhausting, far enough to escape the city, and beautiful enough to linger in your memories, Con Co is a valuable recommendation. Today, many island tours, such as those by Sovaba Travel, are professionally organized with speedboats, knowledgeable local guides, and suitable itineraries for families or groups of friends. Whenever you are ready, everything is set for you to step onto this green island—not just as a passing traveler, but as someone returning to Central Vietnam's most authentic nature.