1. Overview of Cat Ba ferry
The Cat Ba ferry is your main water gateway to this beautiful island, connecting the mainland to one of Vietnam's most stunning destinations. Besides its affordable price, the ferry is popular for the leisurely journey, allowing passengers to enjoy the calm waters and breathtaking views that speedboats often skip.
Right now, there are two main ferry routes serving Cat Ba Island: the Dong Bai to Cai Vieng route from Hai Phong and the Tuan Chau to Gia Luan route from Quang Ninh. The Dong Bai to Cai Vieng route is the most popular, with Dong Bai in Cat Hai and Cai Vieng at Cat Ba’s northern gateway.
Then there is the Tuan Chau to Gia Luan route, which connects Tuan Chau Island in Quang Ninh Province with Gia Luan Pier on the northwest side of Cat Ba. It is ideal for those visiting Ha Long Bay who want to continue to Cat Ba without returning to the mainland.
2. About the ferry to Cat Ba from Hai Phong
2.1. General information
The ferry to Cat Ba from Hai Phong runs between Dong Bai and Cai Vieng terminals. Before this, Cai Vieng Pier was connected to Got Pier, but since March 2024, Dong Bai has replaced Got Pier as the main departure point. The distance between Dong Bai and Cai Vieng is 1.86 km, and the journey takes around 25 to 33 minutes across the Cat Hai Strait.
The Hai Phong to Cat Ba Island ferry operates daily with frequent departures throughout the day. From September 2025 to the end of the year, the Cat Ba Ferry schedule from Dong Bai starts at 5:30 AM, with the last departure at 6 PM. There will be 24 turns per day, each 30 minutes apart from 5 AM to 9 AM and 3 PM to 6 PM, while in other time frames, each turn will be 40 minutes apart.
2.2. Ticket prices
Here is the breakdown of what you will pay for the ferry tickets. The prices are quite reasonable compared to other transport options, which is why many people prefer this route.
Passenger/Vehicle Type | Price/turn (VND) |
Walker | 10,000 |
Bicycle rider | 12,000 |
Motorbike (with rider) | 45,000 |
Car (under 9 seats) | 190,000 |
Bus (9-24 seats) | 210,000 |
Bus (24-32 seats) | 240,000 |
Bus (32+ seats) | 330,000 |
Trucks and cargo vehicles have their own pricing structure based on size and weight. If you are planning to bring a larger vehicle, it is worth calling the ferry terminal ahead of time to confirm the exact cost and make sure there's space available.
>>> Explore: How to get to Cat Ba Island? - the detailed guide
3. Things to know about Tuan Chau - Cat Ba ferry
3.1. General information
The Tuan Chau to Cat Ba ferry offers a scenic route linking Ha Long Bay and Cat Ba Island, perfect for travelers exploring both without returning to the mainland. The ferry takes you from Tuan Chau Island to Gia Luan Pier, passing the gorgeous Lan Ha Bay along the way. This first half takes about 50 minutes.
Moving on to the latter part, once you have arrived at Gia Luan Pier, you will continue for another 40 minutes to Cat Ba, passing by Cat Ba National Park.
The Ha Long to Cat Ba Ferry runs 3 times daily, during the period from October to April the following year, with departures at 7:30 AM, 11:30 AM, and 3:00 PM. Departures require at least 30 passengers, and schedules may vary depending on weather and demand.
3.2. Ticket prices
Same as the other route, ferry to Cat Ba Island also has reasonable prices here, and details are as follows:
Passenger/Vehicle Type | Price/turn (VND) |
Pedestrian | 60,000 |
Motorbike (with rider) | 80,000 |
Car (under 9 seats) | 300,000 |
Bus (9-23 seats) | 350,000 |
Bus (24-29 seats) | 400,000 |
Bus (30+ seats) | 450,000 |
4. How to get to Cat Ba ferry terminals?
Getting from Hanoi to the Cat Ba Ferry port is straightforward once you know your options.
Several coach companies run daily trips from Hanoi to Hai Phong for about 250,000–300,000 VND per person, taking around 2–2.5 hours. From Hai Phong, you can take a taxi, rent a vehicle, or hop on a local bus to Dong Bai Ferry Terminal.
If starting in Hai Phong city center, Dong Bai is 15–20 km away. Taxi fares range from 250,000–350,000 VND/trip, motorbikes around 150,000 VND/ride, and local buses about 15,000 VND/person.
From Cai Vieng, it’s about 22–25 km to Cat Ba, where most accommodations and restaurants are located. You can take a bus for around 25,000 VND, a taxi for up to 300,000 VND, or rent a vehicle for more flexibility.
>>> Find out more about how to travel from Hanoi to Cat Ba!
5. How to book tickets for Cat Ba ferry?
Booking tickets for the Cat Ba Island ferry is simple. At Dong Bai or Tuan Chau Pier, head to the ticket counter when you arrive. It is best to show up at least 30 to 45 minutes before your planned departure, especially on weekends or holidays. The ticket counters accept cash in Vietnamese dong, so have small bills ready.
On top of that, many travel agencies and platforms may also offer booking via phone or online, so keep your eyes peeled for that, especially credible providers like Cat Ba Express.
6. Useful tips for traveling by Cat Ba ferry
Taking the Cat Ba ferry is straightforward, but a little preparation goes a long way. Here are some quick tips:
- Take early ferries (6–8 AM) for cooler weather, fewer crowds, and more daylight for exploring
- Bring a light jacket, sun protection, water, medicines, and cash
- Arrive 45–60 minutes early during busy times
- Sit mid-ship on the lower deck if you get motion sickness, and look at the horizon for relief
- Keep valuables secure and lock your vehicle properly, even while on the ferry
- Check the weather and have a backup plan in case of delays or cancellations
>>> Plan your trip from Cat Ba to Ha Long Bay!
FAQs about Cat Ba ferry routes
What are the main ferry routes to Cat Ba Island?
There are two primary ferry routes to Cat Ba Island: Dong Bai–Cai Vieng from Hai Phong and Tuan Chau–Gia Luan from Quang Ninh.
How long does the Cat Ba ferry take?
Dong Bai–Cai Vieng takes about 40–60 minutes, while Tuan Chau–Gia Luan takes 45–60 minutes, depending on the weather.
How much does a Cat Ba ferry ticket cost?
Ticket prices vary by route and passenger type. The Hai Phong ferry costs 10,000–45,000 VND/person; cars under 9 seats pay 190,000 VND, and larger vehicles up to 330,000 VND. The Tuan Chau route costs 60,000–80,000 VND/person and from 300,000 VND for cars or buses.
How often do ferries run to Cat Ba Island?
Dong Bai–Cai Vieng departs every 30 minutes at peak times. Tuan Chau–Gia Luan operates 3–5 times daily, depending on the season.
Do I need to book Cat Ba ferry tickets in advance?
Tickets are available at the pier, but advance booking is recommended during weekends, holidays, and peak summer months (May–August).
>>> Check out more things to do in Cat Ba!
*Note: The information in this article is for reference purposes only and may be subject to change over time.
The Cat Ba ferry offers more than just transportation. It is your introduction to the natural beauty that makes this island so special. Whether you choose the convenient Dong Bai route from Hai Phong or the scenic Tuan Chau crossing from Ha Long Bay, the journey sets the tone for your island adventure.
Once you reach Cat Ba, make sure to explore all that this incredible destination has to offer. After experiencing the island's beaches, caves, and national park, extend your adventure at VinWonders Vu Yen in Hai Phong. This modern entertainment complex features thrilling games for all ages and year-round attractions that make it perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Book tickets of VinWonders Vu Yen
Vietnam travel destinations are full of incredible sights worth exploring beyond Cat Ba Island, such as Ha Long Bay, Da Nang, Hoi An, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, and plenty more. For your accommodation needs across Vietnam, consider staying at Vinpearl hotels and resorts. The Vinpearl chain offers premium properties in key destinations throughout the country, featuring world-class amenities, excellent service, and often close access to VinWonders entertainment complexes.
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