How to Get to Cat Ba: The Most Affordable Ways to Enjoy the Stunning Views of Lan Ha Bay

Wondering how to get to Cat Ba without spending too much while still admiring the breathtaking scenery of Lan Ha Bay? This article provides detailed suggestions on the most popular means of transportation — including speedboats, ferries, buses, and motorbike trips. Compare travel costs, duration, and the pros and cons of each option to easily choose the best way to enjoy a perfect trip to Cat Ba Island.

? INTRODUCTION 

Planning a trip to Cat Ba Island — the “green pearl” of the Gulf of Tonkin — but not sure how to get there affordably while still enjoying the breathtaking views of Lan Ha Bay?

Located about 30 km from Hai Phong and 150 km from Hanoi, Cat Ba is one of the most accessible islands in northern Vietnam. Travelers can reach it by speedboat, ferry, bus, or even a motorbike road trip. Each option offers its own experience — those who prefer comfort can take the speedboat, while adventure lovers can ride along the scenic coastal roads.

This guide provides a complete overview of the most popular ways to get to Cat Ba in 2025, with detailed costs, travel times, pros and cons, and money-saving tips — helping you plan an unforgettable trip while admiring the beauty of Lan Ha Bay.

How to Get to Cat Ba – Overview of the Most Common Routes (2025)

From Hanoi or Hai Phong, there are several ways to travel to Cat Ba Island:

? By speedboat: the fastest and most convenient option.

⛴️ By ferry: affordable and suitable for travelers with cars or motorbikes.

? By bus: convenient and popular among tourists from Hanoi.

?️ By motorbike or car: ideal for adventurers who love freedom and scenic roads.

Each transportation option has different travel times, costs, and experiences — let’s explore them in detail below.

Traveling to Cat Ba by Speedboat – Fast, Comfortable, and Scenic

The speedboat is the most popular and convenient way to reach Cat Ba, offering stunning views of Lan Ha Bay during the trip.

⏱️ Travel time:

From Binh Pier (Hai Phong) → Cat Ba: 45–60 minutes

From Tuan Chau (Ha Long) → Cat Ba: about 1 hour

✅ Pros: Fast, comfortable, beautiful sea views.

⚠️ Cons: Higher price compared to the ferry or bus.

Tip: If traveling from Hanoi, you can book a combo bus + speedboat ticket— it’s convenient and time-saving.

Traveling to Cat Ba by Ferry – Budget-Friendly and Flexible

The Got – Cai Vieng ferry route is the most popular for those traveling with cars or motorbikes.

⏱️ Travel time: about 20–25 minutes.

✅ Pros: Cheap, flexible, perfect for groups or families.

⚠️ Cons: Long waiting times during weekends and holidays.

Travel tip: Arrive at Got Ferry Terminal before 10:00 AM to avoid long lines during peak hours.

Traveling to Cat Ba by Bus – Convenient and Affordable

If you’re coming from Hanoi, the easiest option is to book a direct bus to Cat Ba, which includes transfers by ferry or speedboat.

⏱️ Travel time: 3.5 – 4.5 hours total.

✅ Pros: Seamless journey — no transfers needed, bus drops you off in Cat Ba Town.

⚠️ Cons: Fixed schedules, less flexibility.

Recommended bus companies: Cat Ba Express, Good Morning Cat Ba, Daiichi Travel, Interbus Lines.

Traveling to Cat Ba by Motorbike – For Adventure Lovers

For travelers who love freedom and exploration, a motorbike trip to Cat Ba is a memorable experience. The route from Hanoi to Cat Ba is about 150 km, passing through Hai Phong – Ha Long Expressway or National Highway 5B.

⏱️ Travel time: 4–5 hours (including ferry transfer).

✅ Pros: Flexible, scenic, full of adventure.

⚠️ Cons: Requires riding experience and good preparation.

Tip: The best time to go is during summer (April–September) when the weather is clear and the sea is calm.

 Choosing the Right Transportation to Cat Ba

Traveler Type Recommended Option Why

Families with kids Speedboat Fast, safe, comfortable

Groups of friends Bus or motorbike Budget-friendly, fun

Couples Speedboat Romantic and scenic

Travelers with cars Got – Cai Vieng Ferry Flexible, easy for self-driving trips

Travel Tips for a Safe and Affordable Trip to Cat Ba

Book your speedboat or combo tickets in advance during peak season.

Check the Cat Ba weather forecast before departure.

If going by motorbike, pack rain gear, protective clothing, and vehicle documents.

Avoid Got Ferry on weekends or holidays to skip long queues.

Always carry cash, snacks, and water for the trip.

? CONCLUSION 

In short, if you’re wondering how to get to Cat Ba affordably while enjoying the magnificent views of Lan Ha Bay, there’s a perfect option for everyone. Whether you prefer the comfort of a speedboat, the budget-friendly ferry, or the freedom of a motorbike road trip, each choice offers a unique and exciting experience.

? Start planning your Cat Ba adventure today and discover the untouched beauty of this emerald island in Northern Vietnam!