Wondering how to get to Ben Beo Harbor Cat Ba quickly and hassle-free? This guide covers all options from Cat Ba Town, Hanoi, Hai Phong, and Ha Long, with travel times, costs, and insider tips. Use it to plan your perfect journey and start exploring the stunning Lan Ha Bay with confidence.
Location & Role of Ben Beo Harbor Cat Ba
Where is Ben Beo Harbor?
Ben Beo Harbor is located in the southern part of Cat Ba Town, Cat Hai District (now is Cat Hai Special Zone), Hai Phong City. From the town center, it is only about 1.5 – 2 km away, making it very convenient for visitors.
The road to the harbor is straightforward. It usually takes just 5–10 minutes by electric car or taxi. If you prefer a leisurely walk, you can reach it in 15–20 minutes, enjoying the refreshing sea breeze and the scenic view of limestone cliffs along the way.
|
Transport |
Duration |
Estimated Cost |
|
Electric car |
5–7 mins |
10,000 – 20,000 VND/person |
|
Taxi |
~5 mins |
50,000 – 70,000 VND/ride |
|
Motorbike |
~5 mins |
20,000 – 30,000 VND (fuel) |
|
Walking |
15–20 mins |
Free |
The Importance of Ben Beo Harbor in Cat Ba Tourism
Ben Beo Harbor is not just a docking point—it is considered the main gateway to explore Lan Ha Bay. Every day, hundreds of boats depart from here, taking visitors to highlights such as Monkey Island, Viet Hai Village, and the ancient Cai Beo fishing village.
Beyond its transport role, the harbor itself is a picturesque spot. From the pier, you can admire rows of limestone mountains rising above the emerald waters and colorful boats bobbing in the harbor. Many travelers even treat Ben Beo as a must-visit check-in point before their journey out to sea.
The harbor bustles with activity, especially during the summer peak season. Its vibrant atmosphere, combined with its strategic location, makes Ben Beo an essential hub that supports Cat Ba’s position as one of the top island destinations in Northern Vietnam.
Transportation Options to Get to Ben Beo Harbor from Cat Ba Town Center
By Electric Car
Among the many ways of how to get to Ben Beo Harbor Cat Ba, the electric car is the most popular choice. It is fast, eco-friendly, and affordable, making it perfect for short transfers on the island.
From the town center, the ride takes only 5–10 minutes for a distance of about 2 km. Electric cars are easy to find in front of hotels and restaurants, and you can hop on without booking in advance. It’s not just convenient, but also a fun way to enjoy the lively streets of Cat Ba.
By Taxi or Motorbike Taxi
For more comfort and privacy, taxis or motorbike taxis are excellent options. The ride from Cat Ba Town to Ben Beo Harbor takes around 5 minutes, ideal if you are traveling with luggage or during hot weather.
Taxi fares usually range from 100,000 – 130,000 VND for a 4–7 seat car. This is convenient for families or small groups traveling together. Solo travelers, on the other hand, often find motorbike taxis a quick and budget-friendly solution.
By Motorbike or Private Car
If you prefer flexibility and independence, riding your own motorbike or driving a car is a great choice. From the center, simply follow Nui Ngoc Street and turn onto Cai Beo Street—the trip takes only 5–7 minutes.
Ben Beo Harbor has secure parking areas for both motorbikes and cars, so you can leave your vehicle safely before boarding your tour boat. This option also gives you the freedom to combine other attractions around the island in your itinerary.
On Foot (for nearby stays) or a Combination of Options
For visitors staying very close to the harbor, walking is both economical and enjoyable. A 20–30 minute stroll allows you to soak in the sea breeze and explore Cat Ba’s charming streets.
Some travelers even combine walking with another short ride by electric car or taxi. This hybrid option saves money while keeping the journey relaxed and flexible.
Each method has its own advantages. Depending on your budget, time, and personal preference, you can choose the most convenient way of how to get to Ben Beo Harbor Cat Ba and start your Lan Ha Bay adventure with ease.
Connections to Cat Ba and Continue to Ben Beo Harbor
From Hai Phong → Cat Ba
If you are starting from Hai Phong, there are several convenient ways to reach Cat Ba before continuing to Ben Beo Harbor.
- High-speed boat from Ben Binh Pier: The fastest option, taking only 30–45 minutes to Cat Ba. Along the way, you’ll enjoy beautiful views of limestone cliffs and the open sea.
- Ferry from Dong Bai to Cai Vieng: Ideal for those traveling with private cars or motorbikes. The crossing takes about 45 minutes, offering a more relaxed pace on the water.
- Cat Hai – Cat Ba cable car: A spectacular 10-minute ride that “flies” over Lan Ha Bay. It’s not just a transfer but also an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
Once you arrive on the island, you can take a bus, taxi, or electric car for 15–30 minutes to reach Ben Beo Harbor.
From Hanoi / Other Provinces → Cat Ba → Ben Beo Harbor
From Hanoi or nearby provinces, most journeys to Cat Ba include multiple stages.
- First, take a bus, limousine, or shuttle from Hanoi to Hai Phong (about 2–3 hours).
- From Hai Phong, connect by high-speed boat, ferry, or cable car to Cat Ba Island. Some companies offer combo tickets (bus + ferry or bus + cable car) for more convenience.
- Once on the island, it’s just a short ride by taxi, electric car, or even a walk from the town center to reach Ben Beo Harbor, the departure point for Lan Ha Bay cruises.
From Ha Long / Tuan Chau → Cat Ba → Ben Beo Harbor
Travelers in Ha Long or Tuan Chau also have good options to connect to Cat Ba.
- Tuan Chau – Gia Luan ferry: About 50 minutes across the bay, followed by a 30–40 minute drive to Cat Ba Town and Ben Beo Harbor.
- Private car or limousine to Dong Bai Pier (Hai Phong): Then continue by ferry to Cat Ba. This is convenient if you want to combine both Ha Long and Hai Phong in your trip.
- High-speed boat from Ha Long to Cat Ba: The quickest option, allowing you to arrive directly on the island without long waits.
From the arrival pier or ferry terminal, simply take a taxi or electric car to Ben Beo Harbor to start your cruise to Lan Ha Bay.
Whether you come from Hai Phong, Hanoi, or Ha Long, there are flexible ways to reach Cat Ba. Once on the island, the final short journey to Ben Beo Harbor Cat Ba will lead you to the gateway of Lan Ha Bay, one of the most stunning seascapes in Vietnam.
Travel Time, Costs & Key Factors
Estimated Travel Time by Each Option
When planning how to get to Ben Beo Harbor Cat Ba, travel time depends greatly on your chosen transport and starting point.
- From Hai Phong to Cat Ba: the high-speed boat from Ben Binh takes about 30–45 minutes, the Dong Bai ferry around 45 minutes, while the Cat Hai – Cat Ba cable car shortens the trip to just 10 minutes.
- On the island (Cat Ba Town → Ben Beo Harbor): by electric car, taxi, or motorbike, the 2 km ride takes only 5–15 minutes. Walking takes 20–30 minutes depending on your hotel’s location.
- From Hanoi: combining a bus or limousine with a ferry or high-speed boat, the full journey usually takes 3–4 hours.
This flexibility means you can choose a fast transfer, a budget-friendly option, or a scenic ride that adds charm to your journey.
Estimated Costs
Budgeting for your trip is essential when deciding on how to get to Ben Beo Harbor Cat Ba.
- High-speed boat Hai Phong – Cat Ba: 250,000 – 300,000 VND per person/one way.
- Dong Bai – Cai Vieng ferry: about 80,000 VND per person, with extra charges for motorbikes or cars.
- Cat Hai – Cat Ba cable car: higher priced but fast and scenic.
- On the island: motorbike rental 100,000 – 150,000 VND/day; taxi or electric car about 10,000 – 20,000 VND/km.
- Bus from Hanoi to Cat Ba: 200,000 – 320,000 VND per person depending on limousine or standard bus.
- Parking at Ben Beo Harbor: motorbike ~5,000 VND/ride, car 20,000 – 35,000 VND/ride.
With this breakdown, travelers can easily balance speed, comfort, and budget to make the most of their Cat Ba adventure.
Practical Tips & Local Advice for Getting to Ben Beo Harbor Cat Ba
When planning how to get to Ben Beo Harbor Cat Ba, it’s helpful to keep in mind a few practical tips that will make your journey smoother and more enjoyable.
From Cat Ba Town, you can reach the harbor by electric car, taxi, motorbike, or private car. The distance is only about 2 km and takes 5–15 minutes depending on traffic. Many travelers prefer electric cars for their low cost, convenience, and eco-friendly operation. If you enjoy walking, it takes about 20–30 minutes along Nui Ngoc Street before turning onto Cai Beo Street.
Keep in mind that the parking lot at Ben Beo Harbor is quite small. If you bring a motorbike or car, it’s best to park in town and continue to the harbor by electric car or taxi to save time and avoid parking hassles.
When booking boat tickets at the harbor, always check the departure schedule. For larger groups, renting a private boat is recommended, as it gives you more control over timing and a comfortable space without sharing with strangers.
During the peak season (April–September), try to arrive early to avoid crowds and delays. Be prepared with hats, sunscreen, drinking water, and personal essentials—especially on hot days. Also, keep valuables secure since the area can get very busy. Choose the right ticket type (Lan Ha Bay, Monkey Island, or a combined route) to avoid unnecessary costs.
With these local insights, your trip to Ben Beo Harbor Cat Ba will be smoother, more cost-effective, and enjoyable—setting the perfect start for an unforgettable cruise through Lan Ha Bay.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions about How to Get to Ben Beo Harbor Cat Ba
Where is Ben Beo Harbor located?
Ben Beo Harbor is about 2 km from Cat Ba Town Center, in Cat Hai District, Hai Phong. Travelers can easily get there by taxi, electric car, motorbike, or even on foot.
How can I get from Cat Ba Town to Ben Beo Harbor?
The most common options are electric cars, taxis, motorbikes, or walking. By vehicle, it takes just 5–15 minutes, while walking takes around 20–30 minutes—perfect if you’d like to enjoy the fresh island air.
What transport options are there from Hai Phong to Cat Ba?
There are three main choices: high-speed boat from Ben Binh Pier, ferry from Dong Bai to Cai Vieng, or the Cat Hai – Cat Ba cable car. Each option differs in time and cost, so you can choose based on convenience or budget.
What’s the fastest way to travel from Hanoi to Cat Ba?
The quickest route is by bus or limousine from Hanoi to Hai Phong, then continue by ferry or high-speed boat. The full journey usually takes around 3–4 hours depending on your choice.
How much does it cost to get from Cat Ba Town to Ben Beo Harbor?
Motorbike rental is about 100,000 – 150,000 VND per day. Taxis or electric cars cost around 10,000 – 20,000 VND per km. There is also a parking lot at Ben Beo Harbor with small fees for motorbikes and cars.
Should I buy tickets at Ben Beo Harbor or book in advance?
During peak season, it’s best to book tickets in advance to avoid missing your boat. However, ticket counters at the harbor also serve walk-in guests.
Any tips for using the Cat Ba cable car?
The cable car is fast, safe, and offers stunning views of Lan Ha Bay. However, luggage is limited, and after arriving at the station, you’ll need a taxi or electric car to reach the town or Ben Beo Harbor.
Is the waiting time for ferries or high-speed boats long?
During weekends or peak season, waiting times may be 1–2 hours. To avoid delays, go early in the day or consider taking a high-speed boat or the cable car.
These FAQs give travelers a clear picture of how to get to Ben Beo Harbor Cat Ba, helping you plan a smooth and stress-free journey.
After learning all the details about how to get to Ben Beo Harbor Cat Ba, you can easily combine your journey with exciting tours departing right from this harbor. Some of the most popular options include:
- Lan Ha Bay tour from Hanoi: a convenient day trip starting from Hanoi.
- Ha Long Bay tour from Cat Ba: explore the UNESCO World Heritage site from Cat Ba Island.
- Lan Ha Bay half day tour: a short yet memorable adventure on the bay.
- Hanoi to Cat Ba bus: fast and comfortable bus service from Hanoi to Cat Ba.
- Lan Ha Bay 2 days 1 night tour: overnight cruise to enjoy both sunset and sunrise on the bay.
- Lan Ha Bay plankton tour: a magical night tour to witness glowing plankton in the sea.
- Ninh Binh to Cat Ba bus: a direct connection for travelers from Ninh Binh.
- Cat Ba 3 days 2 nights tour: the perfect package to fully discover Cat Ba Island.
Plan your trip today with Quang Thang Cat Ba – your trusted local partner for unforgettable journeys to Cat Ba Island and the breathtaking Lan Ha Bay.
