How to Get to Cat Ba Island from Hanoi

How to get to Cat Ba Island from Hanoi might seem like a logistical challenge at first, but it’s actually a fun and scenic journey — one that takes you from the lively streets of the capital to quiet harbors, island views, and jungle-covered limestone cliffs. Cat Ba may not be as famous as Halong Bay, but that’s exactly why many travelers love it. It feels more wild, less crowded, and full of chances to slow down and explore.

In this updated 2025 guide, we’ll walk you through all the best ways to get from Hanoi to Cat Ba — including the classic bus–ferry combo, faster limousine options, and smooth private car transfers for those who want a hassle-free escape.

1. Where is Cat Ba Island?

Cat Ba Island is located off the coast of northern Vietnam, in Hai Phong Province, about 150km southeast of Hanoi. While there’s no direct road, getting to the island involves a combination of land and water transport — typically a bus + ferry, or a private transfer + speedboat. The full journey takes around 3.5 to 5 hours, depending on your route and choice of transport.

2. Best Ways to Get from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island

2.1. Bus + Speedboat Combo

• Duration: 3.5–4.5 hours
• Cost: 250,000–350,000 VND ($10–15)

Several companies offer direct bus-boat combo tickets from Hanoi to Cat Ba. These packages include a shuttle bus from Hanoi (usually from the Old Quarter) to Got Pier (Bến Gót) in Hai Phong, followed by a ferry or speedboat across the bay to Cat Ba Island, and then a final shuttle to Cat Ba Town.

• Pros: Simple, cost-effective, minimal hassle
• Cons: Set departure times, less flexibility

2.2. Private Car Transfer + Ferry

• Duration: 3.5–4 hours
• Cost: From 1,800,000 VND ($75/car)

If you’re traveling in a group or just want a more personalized, flexible experience, a private car transfer is the most comfortable way to reach Cat Ba. Your driver will pick you up at your hotel in Hanoi, take you directly to Got Pier, and assist with ferry arrangements to the island.

• Door-to-door service
• No need to change buses or carry luggage between vehicles
• Ideal for families, couples, or those with extra baggage

Book your private Hanoi → Cat Ba Island transfer here

2.3. Train to Hai Phong + Ferry

• Duration: 4.5–5 hours
• Cost: 200,000–300,000 VND ($8–12)

For those who prefer a scenic train ride, you can take a train from Hanoi Railway Station to Hai Phong (approx. 2.5 hours), then grab a taxi or Grab to Got Pier, and hop on a speedboat to Cat Ba.

Note: This option is more DIY, and it’s best if you’re flexible and enjoy piecing together your own route.

2.4. Motorbike Adventure

• Duration: 4–5 hours
• Cost: ~100,000 VND/day for bike rental + ferry fees

If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a motorbike in Hanoi and ride down to Hai Phong. From there, you can bring your motorbike onto the ferry at Got Pier and continue riding across the island.

Caution: Only recommended for experienced riders, as traffic leaving Hanoi can be intense.

3. Ferry Info to Got Pier to Cat Ba

All major transfers (bus or private car) connect through Got Pier (Bến Phà Gót), where you can catch either:

• Public Ferry (slower, cheaper, carries vehicles)
• Speedboat (faster, more expensive, foot passengers only)

Ferries operate every 30–60 minutes during the day. The crossing takes 10–25 minutes, depending on the type of boat.

4. What to Do on Cat Ba Island

Once you arrive, Cat Ba has no shortage of adventures:

• Cat Ba National Park – Hike through jungle trails to panoramic viewpoints
• Lan Ha Bay – Kayak among floating villages and limestone islets
• Cannon Fort – Best sunset view on the island
• Hospital Cave – A wartime hideout turned museum
• Beaches – Cat Co 1, 2, and 3 for easy swims near town

Whether you’re into trekking, boat tours, or simply relaxing with a beer by the beach, Cat Ba has it all — at a slower, more local pace than Halong Bay.

5. Conclusion

Getting to Cat Ba from Hanoi is easier than it sounds, and totally worth it for travelers looking to go beyond the usual Halong Bay route. Whether you take a bus-ferry combo or book a custom private transfer, the journey itself is part of the experience — winding through Vietnam’s countryside before gliding across emerald waters to an island filled with adventure.

Looking for a stress-free ride with flexible timing and comfort?
👉 Book your Hanoi to Cat Ba private transfer today and let the island magic begin.