Looking to explore Halong to Cat Ba? Whether you prefer a scenic ferry ride, a convenient bus and ferry combo, or a comfortable private car, there are multiple ways to reach Cat Ba Island, each offering a unique travel experience. Let’s find the best option for you!

Summary of Transportation Options from Halong to Cat Ba
Option |
Duration |
Cost |
Details |
Ferry from Tuan Chau to Gia Luan |
45 minutes - 1 hour |
~200,000 VND |
Scenic ferry ride across Halong Bay. |
Bus and Ferry Combo |
~2 hours |
~250,000 VND |
Bus ride to the ferry, then ferry to Cat Ba. |
Private Car and Ferry |
~2.5 hours |
1,500,000 - 2,000,000 VND |
Comfortable, direct ride with ferry. |
Other Options |
3-4 hours |
Varies |
Train and ferry or motorbike for adventure. |
Ferry from Tuan Chau to Gia Luan
Ferry Details

The ferry from Tuan Chau to Gia Luan is a scenic and popular choice for travelers heading to Cat Ba Island. The ride lasts about 45 minutes to 1 hour and operates regularly. It’s a great way to enjoy the beauty of the bay during your journey.
Route |
Departure Times |
Tuan Chau to Gia Luan (Summer Schedule) |
7:30 AM, 9:30 AM, 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM, 3:00 PM |
Gia Luan to Tuan Chau (Summer Schedule) |
9:00 AM, 11:30 AM, 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM |
Tuan Chau to Gia Luan (Winter Schedule) |
8:00 AM, 11:30 AM, 3:00 PM |
Gia Luan to Tuan Chau (Winter Schedule) |
9:30 AM, 12:30 PM, 4:30 PM |
Tip: Always check the ferry schedule in advance, especially during high seasons, to ensure availability and avoid delays.
Ferry Tips and Considerations
- Best time to travel: Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. Midday ferries may get busier, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Tickets: You can buy tickets directly at the port or through online booking platforms for a smoother experience.
- Weather considerations: If traveling during the rainy season, it's good to keep an eye on weather forecasts as ferry schedules may change due to weather conditions.
The Halong Bay ferry ride is not just a mode of transport but also a chance to enjoy the stunning landscape of the region!
Bus and Ferry Combo from Halong to Cat Ba
How It Works
The Halong to Cat Ba bus and ferry combo is a quick and easy travel option. Start with a bus ride from Ha Long to the ferry terminal, followed by a scenic ferry ride to Cat Ba Island. The whole trip typically takes about 2 hours.
Ha Long to Cat Ba Island Bus Route Details
Route |
Price |
Departure Times |
Ha Long to Cat Ba Island |
250.000 VND |
7:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM |
Cat Ba Island to Ha Long |
250.000 VND |
7:45 AM, 11:30 AM, 3:30 PM |
For a seamless and affordable journey, book your Ha Long to Cat Ba bus ride with Quang Thắng Cát Bà today!
Private Car and Ferry from Halong to Cat Ba
Private Car Option
For a comfortable and fast journey from Halong to Cat Ba, the private car option is perfect. This direct route, including a ferry ride, takes about 2.5 hours. Costs typically range from 1,500,000 - 2,000,000 VND, offering a luxurious, stress-free experience with comfort and privacy throughout the trip.
When to Choose a Private Car
- For Groups: A private car is a perfect choice for families or groups of friends who want to travel together, offering more space and comfort.
- For Comfort: If you’re looking for a stress-free and more luxurious way to travel, the private car from Halong to Cat Ba is the best option, as it ensures convenience and relaxation from start to finish.
Other Transportation Options
Train and Ferry from Halong to Cat Ba
For those seeking a scenic journey, the train and ferry option offers a unique travel experience. Start with a 2-hour train ride from Halong to Hai Phong, followed by a 1 to 2-hour ferry ride to Cat Ba Island. The entire trip takes about 3 to 4 hours and costs between 250,000 - 350,000 VND. Enjoy beautiful countryside views during the train ride, making this a great alternative to the bus or private car.
Motorbike Option
For a more adventurous experience, consider traveling by motorbike. The journey takes around 3 hours, including a 200,000 VND ferry ride. This option is ideal for solo travelers or small groups who want to enjoy the freedom of the open road and explore at their own pace while taking in the beautiful scenery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What’s the Fastest Way to Get from Halong to Cat Ba?
The fastest way to get from Halong to Cat Ba is by taking the ferry from Tuan Chau to Gia Luan, which takes about 1 hour. This is the quickest route, allowing you to reach Cat Ba efficiently while enjoying the scenic bay views.
Can I Take a Bus Directly from Halong to Cat Ba?
No, there is no direct bus from Halong to Cat Ba. The most common method is the bus and ferry combo, where you first travel by bus and then take a ferry to reach Cat Ba Island.
Is the Ferry Ride from Halong to Cat Ba Scenic?
Yes, the ferry ride from Halong to Cat Ba offers stunning views of Halong Bay, making it a beautiful and relaxing part of the journey. The surrounding islands and clear waters add to the scenic experience.
Ready to start your journey? Book your Halong to Cat Ba bus ticket now at Quang Thắng Cat Ba, and explore Lan Ha Bay with our exclusive boat tour here!