If you only have one day for the south, this is the tour to consider. It combines a boat trip around the small islands of the An Thoi archipelago with a ride on the Hon Thom cable car, so you see the same islands twice: first from sea level on the water, then from above on the cable car line. Most versions include snorkelling, a lunch stop and free time at Hon Thom Nature Park, with hotel pickup and drop-off. The combination appeals to travellers who like variety. You get the swimming and snorkelling of an island-hopping day, plus the record-length cable car ride and a stretch of beach time at the park, without having to arrange separate transport or tickets. It is a long day, but not a hard one, and it is well suited to families with children over about five and to couples who want a relaxed, scenic outing.
How the day usually works
You are collected from your hotel in the morning and driven south to An Thoi. A boat takes you to a series of island stops with snorkelling and beach time, then to a lunch spot. In the afternoon you either ride the cable car from Hon Thom back to An Thoi or take the cable car out and return by boat, depending on the operator. Exact order and the islands visited vary, so read the product description carefully and ask about the order if it matters for your plans.
Making the most of it
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun cream and a hat, and keep a dry bag for phones and valuables. If you want time at the water park or sea-walking area, check whether entry and activities are included or paid separately. Many people find the day more enjoyable if they start with the boat while seas are calm, then take the cable car in the afternoon when views are warm and golden.
If anyone in your group is nervous about heights, tell the operator in advance; the cable car is smooth but the line is high above the sea.
Seasons and alternatives
The dry season from about November to April is the best time for this tour, with calmer seas and clear views. In the wetter months wind can pause the cable car and rough water can shorten the boat section, so go early in the day if you can and pick a ticket with generous change terms.
If you want a quieter trip, a smaller-group snorkelling day without the cable car is available, and if you want a shorter outing, the cable car alone makes an easy half day. This combination sits in between, trading depth for breadth, and it is the one most visitors enjoy as a single, memorable day out.
Packing for a long day
Bring two towels, a spare dry shirt, sandals that can get wet, a hat, sunglasses with a strap and sun cream for reapplication every two hours. Keep valuables in a small waterproof bag and leave anything precious at the hotel. Because you will be in and out of boats, a light cover-up helps with the wind, and a small snack protects against a late lunch. Seasick-prone travellers should take medication before the boat section, and parents should put children in life jackets before stepping on the boat deck, not after.
What to expect
The experience
A guided boat trip around four islands with snorkelling and lunch, finished or started with a ride on the Hon Thom cable car.
Best time
The dry season from about November to April, leaving as early as the schedule allows.
How long
Plan a full day, from morning pickup to late afternoon return.
Tips
Bring swimwear and a dry bag, check whether park activities are included and tell the operator if anyone dislikes heights.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Visitors with one day for the south who want both the islands and the cable car.
- Families
- Good for children old enough to enjoy snorkelling and a long day.
- Couples
- A scenic, easy day with a relaxed lunch and good photographs.
- Pair with
- A sunset dinner at Sao Beach or an evening at Sunset Town.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
Is the cable car ticket included?+
The linked tour includes the Hon Thom cable car ride, but check the product description for what the park entry covers.
Do I need to snorkel?+
No. You can stay on the beach or the boat, though most people try the snorkelling.
How many islands do we visit?+
The tour is described as a four-island trip, though stops vary with conditions and the operator.
Can I choose the order?+
Usually the operator sets the order, so ask before you book if it matters.
Is it suitable for young children?+
Generally yes from about five, depending on swimming comfort and the operator's rules.