A Complete Guide to Ulleungdo Ferry: Routes, Prices, and Tips for Travelers
Ulleungdo is a stunning volcanic island off the east coast of South Korea, renowned for its pristine nature and breathtaking landscapes. Often called the 'Jeju Island of the East Sea,' it is considered a must-visit destination for those who seek to experience Korea's untouched natural beauty. While getting there may require a bit of planning, the journey is well worth it. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the different ferry options to Ulleungdo, helping you choose the best route for your trip. We'll cover everything from departure points to travel times and ticket prices.
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| Ulleungdo Ferry |
Getting to the Ferry Terminals
All ferries to Ulleungdo depart from major coastal cities on the east coast of Korea, including Gangneung, Donghae, Uljin, and Pohang. For travelers coming from Seoul and other major cities, we recommend taking a KTX high-speed train or an express bus to one of these terminals.
- From Seoul: The most convenient departure point is Gangneung. You can take a direct KTX train from Seoul Station or Cheongnyangni Station to Gangneung Station, which takes approximately 2 hours. From there, the ferry terminal is a short taxi ride away. This route offers the shortest travel time from Seoul to Ulleungdo.
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| Ferry Terminal Locations |
- Important Notes for Travelers
- All passengers must have a valid form of identification (passport or alien registration card) for boarding.
- Fares may be higher on weekends, public holidays, and during peak seasons.
- Ferry schedules can change due to weather conditions. Always check the ferry company's website or call them for confirmation, especially during bad weather.
- Once on Ulleungdo, we recommend using local public transportation, taxis, or rental cars to explore the island, as bringing a personal vehicle is not necessary and local options are convenient.
Ulleungdo Ferry Routes at a Glance
| Ferry Name | Departure Port | Ulleungdo Port | Travel Time | Approx. Single Fare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Star 5 | Gangneung | Jeodong Port | 3 hours | ₩65,000 (US$48) |
| Sea Star 1 | Donghae Mukho Port | Dodong Port | 2 hours 40 minutes | ₩65,000 (US$48) |
| Sun Flower Cruise | Uljin Hupo Port | Sadong Port | 4 hours 30 minutes | ₩75,000 (US$56) |
| Eldorado Express | Pohang | Dodong Port | 2 hours 50 minutes | ₩70,000 (US$52) |
| New Sea Dao Pearl | Pohang Yeongilman Port | Sadong Port | 6 hours 30 minutes | ₩60,000 (US$45) |
Ulleungdo Ferry Details
Gangneung Port - Sea Star 5
Gangneung Port is the closest passenger terminal to the Seoul Metropolitan Area, conveniently located next to the famous Gangneung Cafe Street. The Sea Star 5 is a high-speed ferry, which means it may be susceptible to sea sickness on rough days.
- Ferry Company: Seaspovill
- Contact: 1577-8665
- Route: Gangneung - Ulleungdo (Jeodong Port)
- Travel Time: 3 hours
- Approx. Single Fare: ₩65,000 (US$48)
Mukho Port - Sea Star 1
Departing from Mukho Port in Donghae City, the Sea Star 1 is a high-speed ferry and the fastest option, with a travel time of just 2 hours and 40 minutes. It's a great choice for those who want to get to Ulleungdo quickly.
- Ferry Company: Seaspovill
- Contact: 1577-8665
- Route: Mukho - Ulleungdo (Dodong Port)
- Travel Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Approx. Single Fare: ₩65,000 (US$48)
Hupo Ferry Terminal - Sun Flower Cruise
The Sun Flower Cruise, departing from Uljin's Hupo Ferry Terminal, is a large cruise ship. It offers a much more comfortable journey with private cabins and open floor-type rooms where passengers can lie down. While the travel time is longer at 4 hours and 30 minutes, the spacious interior and on-board amenities like a snack bar and cafe make the trip enjoyable.
- Ferry Company: H-Shipping
- Contact: 1644-9605
- Route: Hupo - Ulleungdo (Sadong Port)
- Travel Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Approx. Single Fare: ₩75,000 (US$56)
Pohang Ferry Terminal - Eldorado Express
The Eldorado Express is a high-speed ferry that departs from Pohang, making it an excellent option for travelers coming from the Gyeongsang and southern regions of Korea. The travel time is relatively short, at 2 hours and 50 minutes.
- Ferry Company: Daezer Ferry
- Contact: 1899-8114
- Route: Pohang - Ulleungdo (Dodong Port)
- Travel Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
- Approx. Single Fare: ₩70,000 (US$52)
Ulleung Cruise Terminal - New Sea Dao Pearl
The Ulleung Cruise Terminal is located at Pohang's Yeongilman New Port, which is a different location from the main Pohang Ferry Terminal. Make sure to double-check the correct port before you go. The New Sea Dao Pearl is a cruise ship that offers cabins and other amenities. While it has the longest travel time at 6 hours and 30 minutes, the spacious interior and various facilities, including on-board performances, make the journey comfortable and entertaining.
- Ferry Company: Ulleung Cruise
- Contact: 1533-3370
- Route: Pohang - Ulleungdo (Sadong Port)
- Travel Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
For more detailed information on each ferry, please refer to the respective ferry company websites.
There are five main ferry routes to Ulleungdo. The cruise ships offer a longer but more comfortable journey, while the express ferries are faster and ideal for those who plan to rent a vehicle or use public transport on the island. We hope this guide helps you choose the perfect ferry for your trip to this incredible Korean island.
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