Pirate Islands (Hai Tac Islands) is a beautiful archipelago in the Gulf of Thailand, located in Tien Hai Commune, An Giang Province, Vietnam. Formerly part of Ha Tien City in Kien Giang Province, the islands lie approximately 28 kilometers from the mainland.
Known for their unspoiled beaches, fascinating pirate legends, traditional fishing villages, and peaceful island atmosphere, the Pirate Islands are an appealing destination for travelers seeking an authentic coastal experience in southern Vietnam.
Unlike the more developed tourist destinations of Phu Quoc and Nam Du, the Pirate Islands offer a quieter environment where visitors can enjoy natural scenery, discover local culture, and experience the everyday life of island communities.
Where Are the Pirate Islands in Vietnam?
The Pirate Islands are located southwest of Ha Tien, in the Gulf of Thailand, close to Vietnam’s southwestern maritime border.
The archipelago consists of several islands, rocky islets, and reefs. Hon Tre Lon (Hon Doc) is the largest and most populated island, serving as the main destination for visitors and the administrative center of Tien Hai Commune.
The name Pirate Islands originates from historical accounts and local legends about pirates operating in the surrounding waters during the 17th and 18th centuries.
At that time, the area’s strategic location along important maritime trading routes made it a place associated with pirate attacks on passing merchant vessels.
Today, the islands are known for their natural beauty, fishing communities, and peaceful atmosphere rather than their mysterious past.
How to Get to the Pirate Islands from Ha Tien
The most convenient way to reach the Pirate Islands is to travel to Ha Tien, An Giang Province, and then take a ferry to Tien Hai.
The Ha Tien – Tien Hai (Pirate Islands) ferry route provides transportation for local residents and tourists traveling between the mainland and the islands.
The journey generally takes approximately 30–60 minutes, depending on the vessel, operating schedule, and sea conditions.
Passengers should arrive at the departure port early to complete boarding procedures and prepare the necessary identification documents.
Ha Tien – Pirate Islands High-Speed Ferry Schedule
Travelers can check the Ha Tien – Tien Hai (Pirate Islands) high-speed ferry schedule, including return departures, using the timetable below.
Date Ha Tien → Tiên Hải Tiên Hải → Ha Tien 27/10/2026Tuesday (Today) 07:15 14:45 28/10/2026Wednesday (Tomorrow) 07:15 14:45 29/10/2026Thursday 07:15 14:45 30/10/2026Friday 07:15 14:45 31/10/2026Saturday 07:15 14:45 01/11/2026Sunday 07:15 14:45 02/11/2026Monday 07:15 14:45 03/11/2026Tuesday 07:15 14:45 04/11/2026Wednesday 07:15 14:45 05/11/2026Thursday 07:15 14:45 06/11/2026Friday 07:15 14:45 07/11/2026Saturday 07:15 14:45 08/11/2026Sunday 07:15 14:45 09/11/2026Monday 07:15 14:45 10/11/2026Tuesday 07:15 14:45 11/11/2026Wednesday 07:15 14:45 12/11/2026Thursday 07:15 14:45 13/11/2026Friday 07:15 14:45 14/11/2026Saturday 07:15 14:45 15/11/2026Sunday 07:15 14:45 16/11/2026Monday 07:15 14:45 17/11/2026Tuesday 07:15 14:45 18/11/2026Wednesday 07:15 14:45 19/11/2026Thursday 07:15 14:45 20/11/2026Friday 07:15 14:45 21/11/2026Saturday 07:15 14:45 22/11/2026Sunday 07:15 14:45 23/11/2026Monday 07:15 14:45 24/11/2026Tuesday 07:15 14:45 25/11/2026Wednesday 07:15 14:45 26/11/2026Thursday 07:15 14:45
Important: Ferry schedules may change due to weather conditions, passenger demand, and operational requirements.
Passengers are advised to confirm departure times directly with the ferry operator before traveling.
Ha Tien – Pirate Islands Ferry Ticket Prices
Superdong’s reference ticket prices for the Ha Tien – Tien Hai (Pirate Islands) route are as follows:
| Passenger Category | One-Way Ticket Price |
|---|---|
| Adults | 128,000 VND |
| Senior citizens aged 60 and above (Vietnamese citizens only) | 100,000 VND |
| Passengers with disabilities (Vietnamese citizens only) | 90,000 VND |
| Children aged 6–11 (calculated by birth year) | 98,000 VND |
Ticket prices are subject to change according to the ferry operator’s policies.
Passengers eligible for discounted fares should prepare appropriate identification or supporting documents.
For the latest ferry schedules, ticket prices, and transportation regulations, travelers should contact Superdong directly.
Discover the Natural Beauty of the Pirate Islands
One of the main attractions of the Pirate Islands is their relatively untouched coastal environment.
The islands feature small beaches, clear seawater, natural rock formations, and scenic coastal roads.
Visitors can enjoy the peaceful surroundings, take photographs, explore fishing villages, and discover the natural beauty of the Gulf of Thailand.
Bai Bac Beach is among the island’s popular places for swimming and relaxation. Depending on weather and sea conditions, visitors may find calm waters and pleasant coastal scenery.
Beyond the beaches, travelers can explore residential areas on Hon Doc Island, observe local fishing activities, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding sea.
Best Things to Do on the Pirate Islands
Explore Traditional Fishing Villages
Fishing and aquaculture are essential parts of everyday life on the Pirate Islands.
Visitors can explore local fishing villages, observe fishing boats, and learn about the traditional livelihoods of island residents.
Fish farming in floating cages is another characteristic activity in the surrounding waters.
These experiences provide an opportunity to understand the culture and daily routines of Vietnam’s coastal communities.
Relax on Beaches and Explore Rocky Coastlines
The Pirate Islands offer several coastal areas suitable for sightseeing, photography, and relaxation.
Visitors can walk along the shoreline, admire the natural rock formations, and enjoy the quiet island atmosphere.
Swimming, fishing, and other water activities may be available depending on local services and weather conditions.
For safety, travelers should avoid swimming far from shore or snorkeling in unfamiliar waters without appropriate guidance.
Experience Fishing and Floating Fish Farms
Visiting floating fish farms is an interesting way to learn about local aquaculture.
Depending on the services available, visitors may have opportunities to join fishing activities, observe seafood farming, or enjoy freshly prepared seafood near the floating farms.
These activities offer a closer look at the traditional maritime lifestyle of the local community.
Visit the Island Sovereignty Marker
The island sovereignty marker is one of the notable landmarks on the Pirate Islands.
Visitors often stop here to take photographs and learn more about the islands’ geographical location and significance within Vietnam’s maritime territory.
What to Eat on the Pirate Islands
Fresh seafood is one of the highlights of a trip to the Pirate Islands.
Thanks to their location in the Gulf of Thailand, the islands have access to a variety of fish, shellfish, and other seafood.
Some local specialties worth trying include:
- Sea urchins: Often grilled with scallion oil or cooked in rice porridge.
- Fresh fish: Commonly grilled, steamed, or prepared in hot pots.
- Squid: Served grilled, steamed, or cooked in traditional local styles.
- Crabs and sea snails: Popular seafood dishes found in coastal communities.
Among these specialties, sea urchins, known locally as nhum bien or cau gai, are particularly popular.
Sea urchins may be served grilled with scallion oil or prepared in porridge.
Visitors should choose seafood from responsible local suppliers and avoid collecting marine animals in protected or restricted areas.
Why Visit the Pirate Islands?
Unlike major resort destinations, the Pirate Islands retain much of their traditional fishing-community atmosphere.
Tourism services are closely connected to local life, including small accommodations, seafood restaurants, boat excursions, and fishing experiences.
Rather than focusing on large resorts or entertainment complexes, visitors can enjoy a slower pace of travel.
The islands are especially appealing to travelers interested in:
- Quiet beaches and natural coastal scenery.
- Traditional Vietnamese fishing villages.
- Local seafood and island cuisine.
- Small-island exploration.
- Cultural experiences and community-based tourism.
For travelers looking beyond Vietnam’s most famous island destinations, the Pirate Islands offer a different perspective on life in the Gulf of Thailand.
Travel Tips for Visiting the Pirate Islands
Before planning a trip to the Pirate Islands, travelers should consider the following recommendations.
Check the Ferry Schedule
Always check the latest Ha Tien – Tien Hai ferry schedule before departure.
Ferry services may be delayed, rescheduled, or canceled because of unfavorable weather conditions.
Monitor Weather and Sea Conditions
Avoid traveling during periods of strong winds, rough seas, or severe weather warnings.
Sea conditions can affect both ferry operations and recreational activities.
Bring Identification Documents
Vietnamese travelers should carry valid identification documents.
International visitors should bring their passports and other documents required under applicable immigration and travel regulations.
Arrange Accommodation in Advance
Accommodation options on the islands may be more limited than in major tourist destinations.
Booking ahead is recommended, particularly during weekends and public holidays.
Carry Some Cash
Although electronic payments are becoming increasingly common in Vietnam, some small businesses and local services on the islands may still prefer cash.
Respect the Local Environment
Visitors should avoid littering, minimize single-use plastics, and respect marine ecosystems.
Do not collect coral or marine animals in protected areas.
Check Regulations for Foreign Visitors
Because the Pirate Islands are located near Vietnam’s southwestern maritime border, international travelers should confirm the current entry, travel, and accommodation requirements before visiting.
Additional restrictions or administrative procedures may apply to foreign visitors in certain border and island areas.
Travelers should check with the relevant local authorities or their ferry operator before making arrangements.
Pirate Islands: A Peaceful Escape in Southern Vietnam
With their natural coastal scenery, fascinating historical legends, and traditional fishing communities, the Pirate Islands in Vietnam are an interesting destination for travelers exploring the country’s southwestern coast.
From Ha Tien, visitors can plan an island excursion, enjoy fresh seafood, discover local culture, and experience the peaceful atmosphere of the Gulf of Thailand.
Before departure, check the Ha Tien – Pirate Islands ferry schedule on Travelin.vn and confirm the latest travel information directly with the ferry operator.
Disclaimer: Travelin.vn provides travel guides, ferry schedules, and ticket price information for reference purposes only. Ferry operations, ticket prices, and travel requirements may change according to official regulations and transportation providers.
