Hanoi to Cat Ba Island: 6 Best Ways to Transfer [UPDATED 2024]

Set location in the southeastern Lan Ha Bay, Cat Ba Island is the largest complexity of nearly 370 islets dotted over the region of 260 km² to the South of Halong Bay. Meanwhile, Hanoi is situated in the heart center of northern Vietnam, 170 km to the West of Halong Bay.

As an inhabited island of Hai Phong City, Cat Ba can be reached by waterways from the surroundings. Normally, you need to travel by road from Hanoi then take a ferry boat to Cat Ba Island. Otherwise, check this article out and pick one of these 5 best ways to travel from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island: by bus, private car, motorbike, train & ferry, and overnight cruise. We also refer to some local tips and itinerary suggestions for your trip.

Find out the best ways to travel from Hanoi to Cat Ba

Hanoi to Cat Ba Distance and Travel Time

The distance between Hanoi and Cat Ba Island is approximately 130 km by road and 40 km by sea. The fastest route is getting a 2-hour car ride from Hanoi city center to Cat Hai Island via the Hanoi – Hai Phong Highway 5B and the Tan Vu – Lach Huyen sea-crossing bridge, plus a 30-minute ferry transfer to Cat Ba Island. Sometimes it might take longer depending on the traffic and ferry schedules.

In case you land at Noi Bai International Airport, the route from Hanoi airport to Cat Ba Island will take you around 2 hours 15 minutes to travel the road distance of 150 km.

Car journey from The Old Quarter (Hanoi) to Dong Bai Ferry Terminal (Hai Phong)

From the ferry terminal to Cat Ba town center

How to get from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island

There are 6 common ways of getting to Cat Ba from Hanoi, consisting of the tourist bus, cable car, private car, motorbike, train, and overnight cruise. It is about time to weigh up the pros and cons of each way, as well as the price and what to expect, all for your better choice.

1. Hanoi to Cat Ba Island Bus - The Most Popular Means of Transportation

If finding a vehicle that is comfortable and affordable, then you should opt for Hanoi to Cat Ba Island buses. These buses are usually luxury limousines that run daily from Hanoi Old Quarter to your hotel in Cat Ba town. Due to reasonable price and high level of comfort, this way of transfer is suitable for almost all types of travelers.

• Price range: US $13 - $18/ pax/ one-way (300,000 - 450,000 VNĐ)
• Duration: 2 hours
• Best for: All types of traveler

Bus from Hanoi to Cat Ba

High level of convenience: Hanoi to Cat Ba shuttle buses are well-equipped with many modern facilities, such as reclining leather seats, WiFi, LCD screens, USB plugs, air conditioners, etc., which would make the journey more restful for every passenger.

No extra fee on the way: A Hanoi to Cat Ba bus trip will cost you less than US $20, which includes fuel cost, toll and ferry/ speedboat fare from the mainland to Cat Ba town. This is one of the most cost-saving ways to get to the island.

A wide range of bus types: Shuttle/ tourist buses from Hanoi to Cat Ba could offer from 25 to 45 seats, making them the one-size-fits-all option for most types of travelers.

How to get to Cat Ba Island by bus?

Currently, there are 4 Hanoi to Cat Ba bus brands providing shuttle transfer and free pick-up/ drop-off. You can either book online with a bus operator or contact a travel agent to make a reservation.

Let's take a look at the bus schedules and prices for one-way transfers. Please note that the schedule may change due to seasonal variations, outbreaks, or other external factors.

2. Hanoi to Cat Ba by Cable Car - Ideal for A Unique & Scenic Route

From Hanoi to Cat Ba, you will be taken by bus on the mainland and travel over the sea on a cable car. This way of transfer not only offers a time-saving and cost-effective journey but also give you the chance to admire Cat Ba Island from vantage point.

• Price range: US $13 - $16/ pax/ one-way (400,000 - 500,000 VNĐ)
• Duration: 2 hours
• Best for: Small group/ family, solo traveler

Cat Ba Cable Car

Cat Ba Cable Car was first launched in June 2020 and has just been back in operation since April 2024. Up to 214,8m tall, Cat Ba Cable Car was recognized by the Guinness World Organization as the “highest cable car pillar in the world”, serving a panoramic view of the Gulf of Tonkin and Cat Ba Island.

Besides the scenic route, passengers are entitled to all benefits similar to the Hanoi to Cat Ba bus and ferry combo, including the high level of comfort, affordability, and a wide range of bus types.

How to get to Cat Ba by Cable Car?

In fact, you can book a Cat Ba cable car ticket separately through travel agencies. Yet, we recommend you opt for the Hanoi to Cat Ba bus and cable car combo. As the price covers bus fare, cable car ticket, fuel cost, and toll, all you need to do is pack your bag and go. Some bus operators offering bus and cable combo include:

3. Hanoi to Cat Ba by Private Car - Private and Flexible Way of Transfer

Traveling by private car from Hanoi to Cat Ba is not only the fastest but also the most enjoyable option, offering the flexibility to customize your travel itinerary according to your preferences.

• Price range: US $120 - $170/ one-way (3,000,000 - 4,500,000 VNĐ)
• Duration: 2 - 2,5 hours
• Best for: Family with kids, couples, small group with luggage

Hanoi to Cat Ba private cars

Flexibility in pick-up/ drop-off time and spots: On booking a private car, you will have the right to decide on pick-up/ drop-off time and spots, allowing you to fully control your schedule and itinerary.

Privacy and exquisite service: As you are the only customer in a Hanoi to Cat Ba private car, the driver will take better care of your needs. Also, there will be enough private space for you to chat with your friends or enjoy yourself without being interrupted.

How many seats can a Hanoi to Cat Ba private car have?

Hanoi to Cat Ba private cars are pretty varied, from 4-seat family cars to 12-seat minivans, suitable for couples, families with kids, and small groups of travelers. Especially, all types of private cars have spacious room for luggage, which is a plus for those planning to travel for a long time.

Below are some common types of private cars and their rental cost:

How to get to Cat Ba from Hanoi in a private car?

Currently, private transfer services are widely provided. You can find providers on the internet and book services through their websites or hotlines.

Rental costs will typically range from US $125 to $150, depending on the type of car and the rental duration. This fee covers fuel, highway tolls, parking fees, the ferry fee for the Cat Hai – Cat Ba crossing, and convenient pick-up and drop-off services.

Additional expenses such as personal items, driver tips, and ferry tickets for passengers are not included in the rental price.

Let’s have a look at some reliable private car providers to Cat Ba Island:

4. Motorbike to Cat Ba Island from Hanoi

For an independent, thrilling adventure, riding a motorbike (widely called “phuot” by young Vietnamese) from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island will be ideal.

• Motorbike Rental: US $9 - 11/day
• Duration: 3 - 4 hours
• Best for: Backpacker, adventurer

"Phuot" from Hanoi to Cat Ba by motorbike

Independent trip: Traveling from Hanoi to Cat Ba by motorbike means that you will have to self-prepare everything, from vehicles to itineraries. Yet, this route is neither long nor dangerous, preparation would not require much.

Local experience: On the way, you will go through many villages and cities in Hai Duong and Hai Phong, a good chance to see and feel how the pace of life varies in places, and to interact with the locals as well.

How to prepare for a “phuot” trip from Hanoi to Cat Ba?

First, you have to rent a motorbike in Hanoi. Below are some reliable motorbike centers in the city:

Second, fill up your tank and start your trip.

Typically, a motorbike trip to Cat Ba from Hanoi and back for 2 days would cost you about US $30, including US $22 for motorbike rental, $8 for ferry ticket (two-way) and another $8 for gasoline.

You may refer to Cat Ba Island Ferry: Schedule & Price 2024

5. Hanoi to Cat Ba by Train

With a view to getting closer to the Vietnamese locals, a train journey from Hanoi to Cat Ba is the cheapest and most authentic way that every adventurer is seeking.

• Train ticket: US $6/ pax/ one-way
• Duration: 4 hours
• Best for: Backpackers, experiential travel

Hanoi to Cat Ba Island train

In this way, you have to take a joint journey by train from Hanoi to Hai Phong, taxi from Hai Phong City to Dong Bai terminal, and travel by ferry/speedboat to Cat Ba Island. Let’s get into details of the 3 steps to follow.

Step 1: Hanoi to Hai Phong by train

The railway distance is 102 km, which takes you 2.5 hours to transfer with both hard seats and soft ones available. There are 3 – 4 daily trains leaving from Long Bien Station, Hanoi to Hai Phong Station, Hai Phong City.

Step 2: Hai Phong to ferry terminal by taxi

Upon arrival at Hai Phong Railway Station, tourists need to take a cab to Got Port or Dinh Vu Ferry Terminal, two departure points of ferry boat from Hai Phong to Cat Ba. The route takes 45 minutes and costs about 22 USD for a distance of 30 km.

In case of saving taxi cost, you can transfer to Pha Binh Terminal, only 4 km from the railway station. However, this way takes a longer ferry and not recommended for those with seasickness.

Step 3: Ferry to Cat Ba Island Depending on the route you choose, it takes around 0.5 – 1 hour to get to the Cat Ba ferry terminal. The ticket prices range from 3 USD/ ferry to 12 USD/ speedboat.

6. Cat Ba Island Cruise from Hanoi

Do you want a perfectly different way to travel from Hanoi to Cat Ba? A luxury Cat Ba cruise tour is the best choice.

• Price range: US $99 - $220/ one-way (3,000,000 - 4,500,000 VNĐ)
• Duration: 2 - 3 days
• Best for: Family with kids, couple

Cat Ba Island cruise from Hanoi

For the most part, a day cruise starts from 99 USD/ pax while a 2d1n cruise ranges from 160 USD to 220 USD/ pax on average. Booking a cruise package saves your budget on total expenses instead of paying separately for transportation, accommodation, meals, sightseeing, activities, etc. Most Cat Ba Island cruises from Hanoi offer a shuttle bus or limousine bus to the cruise port. There is no need to engage in various types of transfers, also no worrying about which transportation companies to opt for and where to book the service.

Why should you not miss the Cat Ba Island cruise?

• An inclusive package tour that covers transportation
• A deluxe staying on a cruise to explore the true beauty of Cat Ba
• A great diversity of cruise ranges, things to do, and places to go

All things considered, shuttle bus and transportation of cruise tour from Hanoi are highly recommended thanks to a great sense of satisfaction. Nevertheless, the most suitable way is also perfected by how much you are willing to spend, who you go on a vacation with, where you would like to stay in Cat Ba, and other more.

You may also like Hanoi to Halong Bay: 6 BEST Ways to Travel

Local tips for Hanoi to Cat Ba Transportation

• Arrive at the bus departure point at least 30 minutes in advance

Before the scheduled departure time, some bus companies have to organize the transfer for passengers, such as checking the booking information, arranging seats, and so on. Make sure you are on time and not miss the bus unexpectedly.

• Avoid peak season if you travel by ferry to Cat Ba Island

Despite the higher frequency of ferry rides in tourist season, it is always bustling at the terminal during this time. Unless you are into the crowds, you should better avoid the domestic tourist season in Vietnam, from May to July.

• Take a morning train from Hanoi to Hai Phong

Bear in mind that the last ferry to Cat Ba leaves at 17:00 – 18:00 daily. Meanwhile, a train ride takes you almost 3.5 hours to arrive at the terminal. Unlike the other means of transportation, there are only 2 train schedules in the morning you can take to save time. Be an early bird, otherwise, you have to wait till dawn.

• Hunt for a combined ticket or package tour from a travel agent

Indeed, a combo always saves your time on planning and your money for transportation. However, it is necessary to think twice before you stick with a local agent. With years-long experience and a high reputation, BestPrice Travel can help you out.

Suggested Hanoi - Cat Ba Island Tour Itinerary

In addition to transportation, planning which places to visit in Cat Ba Island gives you the fullest experience. Here are some suggestions for a two-day itinerary from Hanoi to Cat Ba.

Day 1: Hanoi - Halong Bay - Lan Ha Bay - Dark & Light Cave

From Halong Bay, you can embark on a cruise to uncover the hidden gem of Lan Ha Bay. The excursion will take you to Dark & Light Cave, where you can choose kayaking or bamboo boat rowed by the locals. Onboard life isn't as dull as you think since the afternoon is a great time to join a sunset party, happy hour, cooking class, and other more.

Day 2: Cat Ba National Park - Trung Trang Cave - Hanoi

Start your day with a refreshing Tai Chi session on the sun deck, then get a trek in Cat Ba National Park to discover off-the-beaten-path routes. The national park is also home to the rich biodiversity of fauna and floral. Don't forget to check-in at the largest valley in Cat Ba Island, called Trung Trang. Here, Trung Trang Cave, a historical site dating back to the Vietnamese War, is an awe-inspiring attraction to learn history and feast an eye on unique stalactites.

Apart from the above suggestion, Cat Ba Island offers plenty of places to go in Lan Ha Bay, Monkey Island, etc. To get further details, don't hesitate to contact us and come up with a better plan for transportation.

BestPrice Travel

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