Planning a trip to Phu Quoc, you’ve surely heard of the “world’s longest sea-crossing cable car route”. But amidst thousands of pieces of information online, you might still be struggling: What time should you go to avoid waiting for hours? Where can you buy tickets cheaper than the listed price? And is Hon Thom really worth the trip as rumored? This article won’t “sugarcoat” everything, but rather provide you with an honest perspective from a local, helping you have the most complete and optimized journey.
Reality: “Disillusioned” by taking the cable car at the wrong time
Many tourists report wasting over an hour just queuing in the 35-degree heat at An Thoi Station, or arriving only to find the Water Park starting to close its rides. Especially during peak season, the lack of a clear itinerary can suddenly turn a “luxurious” experience into an exhausting one. That is why you need to master the “tips” below before packing your bags.
1. Experience Phu Quoc Cable Car to Hon Thom: The feeling of “flying” over An Thoi Bay
The journey from An Thoi Station to Hon Thom Station is nearly 8km long. Instead of just looking through the glass, try to feel it:
- Visuals: The entire South Island appears like a watercolor painting with colorful fishing boats, and the sea water shifting colors from turquoise to deep blue.
- Sensations: The cabin operates very smoothly, but passing over the towering cable pillars, you will feel a thrilling sense of height.
Local Note: Don’t rush to take photos right after entering the cabin. About 5 minutes later, when the cabin reaches its highest point in the middle of the sea, that is the best angle to capture the entire “Sunset Town” behind you.
2. Updated cable car ticket prices
Currently, standard ticket prices include the round-trip cable car and Sun World water park.
| Ticket Type | Price (Reference) | Includes |
| Adults (>1.4m) | 839,000 VND (~$31.9 USD) | Cable Car + Water Park + Theme Park |
| Children (1m – 1.4m) | 689,000 VND (~$26.2 USD) | Cable Car + Water Park + Theme Park |
| Children (<1m) | Free | All services |
- Saving tip: Don’t buy directly at the counter if you want to avoid queuing. Booking through authorized agents usually helps you save from 20k – 50k/ticket and you only need to scan a QR code to enter the gate.
3. Operating Schedule & “Golden Hours” to avoid tourist traps
The cable car does not run continuously 24/7 but follows fixed time slots. If you go at the wrong time, you will have to wait at the station for a very long time.
- Standard operating hours: Usually from 08:30 – 17:30 (with a lunch break).
- Ideal schedule: Be present at An Thoi Station at 08:30. You will be the first ones on the cabin, enjoying the water park when the water is still cool and the rides are not overloaded.
4. Unmissable experiences at Hon Thom
Besides taking the cable car, what else is on Hon Thom?
- Aquatopia Water Park: The most modern water park in Asia with over 20 thrilling rides.
- Exotica Village: Challenge yourself with “Roaring Timbers” (Mộc xà thịnh nộ) – the first wooden roller coaster in Vietnam.
- Bai Trao: If you prefer peace, take the free electric buggy to Bai Trao to swim and check-in with the leaning coconut trees.
Local warning: Food on the island is quite expensive and not very diverse. If traveling with family, you should consider buying a ticket package that includes Lunch Buffet to save costs and for greater convenience.
5. Preparation handbook for a perfect trip
- Attire: Swimwear, sunscreen (very important as the Phu Quoc sun is harsh), and a waterproof bag for your phone.
- Health: If you suffer from severe motion sickness, take medicine 30 minutes beforehand. Although the cable car is very smooth, the height can make some people slightly dizzy.
- Check-in: Don’t forget to visit “Sunset Town” right at the foot of the cable car station to take cool Mediterranean-style photos.
Conclusion
The Phu Quoc cable car is not just a means of transport but a “must-try” experience once in a lifetime. For the smoothest trip, plan early, book tickets in advance, and go during the earliest possible time slot.
If you are still wondering how to arrange your schedule to conveniently visit the entire South Island, refer to this:
👉 Guide to booking Hon Thom cable car tickets at good prices & without waiting
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does the Hon Thom cable car take?
The travel time on the cabin is about 15-20 minutes/way. However, you should dedicate at least half a day (4-6 hours) to play on the island.
- Can I bring food onto the island?
The tourist area’s new regulation is no outside food or drinks (except for baby milk) allowed on the island to ensure environmental hygiene. There are staff checking at the cable car station entrance.
- Can the elderly and small children take the cable car?
Absolutely. The cabin is very spacious (capacity of 30 people) and moves stably, completely safe for both infants and the elderly.
