A beautiful view from within central Halong Bay-mobile

Getting from Cat Ba Island to Halong Bay

Choose from buses and ferries

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2 ways to travel from Cat Ba Island to Halong Bay

Bus

Chosen by 81% of travellers

Compare bus options from Cat Ba Island to Halong Bay across 5 operators.

Optional amenities

Air conditioningWi-FiReclining seats

About this route

  • The distance between Cat Ba Island and Halong Bay is 23 km (14.4 miles)
  • 81% of travelers between Cat Ba Island and Halong Bay choose to go by bus.
  • Ferries can make the trip more scenic and avoid long overland detours, while the alternative may be simpler for travelers who prefer to stay on land or travel by air.
  • Prices start from 9 US$ on bus.
  • Ferries on this route may also require a transfer by land, depending on the ride selected

Route shown is for illustrative purposes only. Exact routing depends on your selected operator.

Travel Schedule Options from Cat Ba Island to Halong Bay

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A beautiful view from within central Halong Bay

About the ride from Cat Ba to Halong Bay

The largest of 367 islands that make up the Cat Ba Archipelago, Cat Ba Island is known for its awe-inspiring, rugged landscapes and adventure activities. Designated a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, Cat Ba National Park is home to the endangered Cat Ba Langur and also a wonderful place to hike and enjoy sweeping views of the island. The perfect way to recover from all the hard work? Laze on Cat Ba beach, of course! You could also take a cruise to discover Lan Ha Bay - well known for its imposing karsts and picturesque islands. Kayak, snorkel, or spend the day discovering secluded beaches and savoring the freshest seafood delicacies. 

Halong Bay needs little introduction. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is one of Vietnam’s most popular tourist destinations. The best way to discover its wonders is to sign up for a cruise - you can sign up for a single night or multi-night cruise. Those looking for a relaxed vacation can spend the entire time just sitting on the sun deck gazing at majestic limestone karsts, sundowner in hand, or work on your tan on the region’s pristine beaches. Those interested in some adventure have plenty to choose from - snorkeling, diving, kayaking, rock climbing, and so much more. Equally interesting is the chance to visit Vung Vieng, a floating village located in Bai Tu Long Bay. 

The distance from Cat Ba Island to Halong Bay is approximately 16 miles (25 km) by air. There are three departures every day, and travelers can choose a bus-ferry or minivan-ferry. The ride takes around 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes. Both options are comparable in terms of price, so you can pick whatever works best for you.

 

What to see when traveling from Cat Ba to Halong Bay

The ferry ride affords you opportunities to appreciate the beauty and incredible landscapes of this region. Enjoy the sights of majestic limestone karsts as your ferry floats down the blues and greens of the bay. 

 

How to get from Cat Ba to Halong Bay

Taking a bus/ferry

There is one bus/ferry departure every day to Halong Bay from Cat Ba Island. Departure is in the morning, and the ride takes one and half hours to cover the distance. The ferries have indoor and outdoor seating while the buses are air-conditioned and have comfortable, reclining seats. Ticket prices start from $15 per person, and the operator offers hotel pick up from Cat Ba Island.

 

Taking a minivan

Travelers can also take a minivan-ferry combo to get to Halong Bay. Travel times and ticket prices are very similar to those of bus-ferry operators. There are two departures, one in the morning and one early afternoon, that you can choose from. The minivans are air-conditioned, have cushioned, reclining seats, and offer the added convenience of hotel pick up and drop off. 

Companies Operating from Cat Ba Island to Halong Bay

Average time

3h

Average price

US$ 14

Average time

2h 20m - 2h 45m

Average price

US$ 12

Why travel with Bookaway?

Bookaway.com makes it simple and easy to find, compare, and buy city-to-city tickets via bus, train, ferry, and more. We support over 13 languages and 23 currencies worldwide, and we believe that everyone should easily be able to find and purchase what they are looking for. We don’t just want to help you get where you want to go - we want you to enjoy the ride.