Turtles Lay Eggs, Release Baby Turtles & Snorkeling - Con Dao Overnight

This overnight sea tour (17 hours (overnight)) explores Con Dao — a remote archipelago of 16 islands off Vietnam's southern coast, ringed by coral reefs and protected as a national park. Once a notorious prison colony, today it is one of the country's most pristine and tranquil destinations. The route takes in Turtle Island (Hon Bay Canh), Mangrove forest, Ranger station and Turtle nesting beach at a calm, well-paced rhythm.

You travel with an English/Vietnamese-speaking guide in a small group (maximum 10 people), departing from the Happy Island Tour station or with hotel pickup. The overnight format means time for the island’s most magical after-dark experiences.

Why this route works

Con Dao rewards travellers who want raw nature and quiet over crowds — its reefs, turtle beaches and jungle are protected and lightly visited. Con Dao is one of the few places in Vietnam where you can ethically watch sea turtles nest and release hatchlings, guided by conservation rangers. The operator follows strict no-single-use-plastic and reef-safe rules.

What you will experience

• Watch a mother sea turtle lay her eggs by night — Con Dao's signature experience
• Release baby turtles back to the sea (subject to season)
• Snorkel coral reefs and a shipwreck off Turtle Island
• Camp overnight at the ranger station with dinner included

Who is this tour for

Best suited to nature lovers, couples and small groups who want Con Dao's reefs, jungle and history without the crowds. The pace is easy and suitable for most travellers, including families. Bring swimwear, a towel and reef-safe sun protection.

What is included

• Canoe transfer
• Tour guide
• Baby-turtle release fee
• Turtle-nesting observation fee
• National park entrance fee
• Port fee
• Bread, pastries and fruits
• Drinking water
• Life jacket, diving mask, snorkel and fins
• First aid kit
• Tent
• Dinner

Good to know

Con Dao is best visited March–September for calm seas and the clearest snorkelling; the sea-turtle nesting season peaks June–September. Spray sunscreen and single-use plastics are not allowed, to protect the coral reefs and marine life. Sea and trekking activities are weather dependent and may be modified for safety. Currently $108 per person (was $114); reconfirmed by date and group size at booking (2,750,000 VND (was 2,890,000 VND)).