Hòn Thơm Departure Terminal: Gateway to Paradise
The Hòn Thơm Departure Terminal, officially known as the An Thới Station, is not merely a transport hub; it stands as a spectacular attraction in its own right in the south of Phú Quốc Island. This terminal serves as the beginning of the Hòn Thơm Cable Car, a structure holding the Guinness World Record for the longest non-stop three-rope sea-crossing cable car in the world, stretching nearly 8 kilometers (7,899.9 meters) over the ocean.
Architecture and Unique History
The terminal’s grand architecture immediately captivates visitors. Designers modelled the entire complex on the Roman Colosseum and ancient Mediterranean ruins, creating a highly photogenic “Sunset Town” aesthetic. You can spend significant time wandering through the meticulously crafted archways, plazas, and fountains before even boarding the cable car. Sun World, the developer, designed the station to immerse guests in a European-inspired historical ambiance, making it a key attraction on the island’s southern coast.
The Cable Car Journey
The 15-to-20 minute journey offers a serene yet thrilling experience. As your cabin ascends, you gain 360-degree panoramic views of the entire An Thới archipelago, revealing pristine turquoise waters, lush green islands like Hòn Dừa and Hòn Rỏi, and colorful local fishing boats. This provides an unparalleled opportunity to observe the marine environment and coastal landscapes from a unique vantage point. The ticket for the cable car includes access to the entertainment complex on the destination island, Hòn Thơm.
Destination: Hòn Thơm Nature Park
The cable car transports you to Hòn Thơm Island, where the Sun World Hòn Thơm Nature Park awaits. The park features the massive Aquatopia Water Park (Asia’s leading water park), Exotica Village (with thrilling roller coasters), and beautiful pristine beaches like Cá Chuồn Beach. Your ticket typically covers the round-trip cable car ride and entry to both parks, ensuring a full day of adventure.
Practical Visitor Information
Plan your visit carefully to maximize your experience and avoid long waits.
Address: Bãi Đất Đỏ, An Thới, Phú Quốc, Kiên Giang, Vietnam.
Operating Hours: The cable car generally operates daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (17:00), but it typically closes for a midday break (often between 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM). Confirm the specific daily schedule on the official Sun World website before visiting, because times often change seasonally.
Ticket Prices (Reference): A standard Adult ticket (over 140 cm) for the round-trip cable car and entry to Sun World Hòn Thơm Nature Park (Water Park + Exotica Village) is approximately 750,000 VND. Children (100–140 cm) cost around 600,000 VND. You can also purchase combo tickets that include a buffet lunch.
Transportation: A dedicated public bus service (VinBus) and taxis travel between Dương Đông town and the An Thới Station. Taxis offer convenience, while the public bus provides a cost-effective option.
