How To Get The Ninh Binh To Cat Ba? Detailed Guide

Many travelers plan to visit Hanoi, Ninh Binh, and Cat Ba Island while exploring Northern Vietnam. We’ve previously shared comprehensive details on traveling from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island. Vietnam Dope Travel will focus on how to reach Cat Ba Island from Ninh Binh province, particularly from Tam Coc.

What are the transportation options to go from Ninh Binh to Cat Ba?

Several transportation options are available to you to reach Cat Ba Island from Ninh Binh:

From Ninh Binh to Cat Ba by private car

As with the journey from Hanoi to Cat Ba, you can also rent a private car and driver for the Tam Coc – Cat Ba Island route. You can arrange this service through your hotel or a travel agency like Parfum d’Automne, which has connections in Tam Coc.

Here are the round trip prices for Hanoi – Cat Ba:

• 7-seater car: $190
• 16-seater car: $210

This price includes the vehicle rental, driver’s services, highway tolls (both ways), and ferry tickets (both ways) to Cat Ba Island.

The travel time to Pha Got port is approximately 2.5 hours. From there, you will take a ferry (30-minute wait and 20-minute crossing) to reach Cat Ba city (30 minutes). In total, the journey to Cat Ba City takes about 4 hours.

If you opt for this convenient transportation and plan to visit both Cat Ba and Ninh Binh, it’s recommended to book a 3-day tour. This tour includes a private car and driver, an English-speaking guide, activities (cruises, visits, meals, etc.), and accommodations.

From Ninh Binh to Cat Ba Island by tourist bus

If you’re in Tam Coc and want to travel to Cat Ba Island independently, it’s best to book tickets with one of the tourist bus companies that frequently operate on this route.

Booking with these companies means you’re getting a package that includes both bus and ferry services to Cat Ba town, located in the island’s south.

To book your trip, you have several options:

• Visit the bus company’s office directly.
• Book through your hotel in Tam Coc.
• Use a travel agency like Parfum d’Automne, known for its competitive prices.
• Book online on platforms like Bookaway.
• Keep in mind that booking through a person who can assist if needed is advisable, as online platforms offer convenience but less flexibility.

Parfum d’Automne works with The Long Travel and Daiichi, the latter having recently launched a bus route from Tam Coc to Cat Ba. Currently, there is only one available schedule. These companies also offer routes from Cat Ba to Tam Coc.

From Ninh Binh to Cat Ba Island by local bus and then boat

You can take a bus from the Ninh Binh bus station to Haiphong, not directly to Cat Ba Island. We recommend the sleeper buses from the Hoang Long company, costing around $8 per person for a 2.5-hour journey. There is one morning departure and two evening departures.

Upon arrival in Haiphong, you will need to go to Pha Binh port to catch a shuttle to Cat Ba. Here are the available shuttle schedules:

• Cat Ba Island Resort and Spa: 9 am, 1 pm, 4 pm
• Mekong Hoang Yen: 7 am, 9:30 am, 11:30 am, 1:30 pm, 3 pm
• Hadeco: 7am, 8am, 10am, 1pm, 3pm, 4pm

The combined cost of these journeys is higher than a direct tourist bus trip, so this budget option is recommended only if you plan to spend just one day and night in Haiphong.

From Ninh Binh to Cat Ba by train

Poor option since there’s no direct train from Ninh Binh to Haiphong! The train route passes through Hanoi… Why detour through Hanoi when buses can take you straight to Cat Ba Island? It might be worth considering if you plan to visit Hanoi first before heading to Cat Ba Island.

You’ll need to take a taxi from Tam Coc to reach the Ninh Binh bus station.

How to access to Cat Ba island?

Ferry from Pha Got

If you choose to travel to Cat Ba Island by ferry from Pha Got, this route is typically taken by those who are traveling from Hanoi. You can either take a bus from Hanoi on your own or book a cruise that departs from the Ben Beo port in the south of the island. 

This ferry will take you to the northern part of Cat Ba Island. Upon arrival, you will need to continue your journey by taking a bus to reach the main town of Cat Ba, which is located in the southern part of the island.

Speedboat from Pha Got

During the peak tourist season, which spans from May to September, ferries can become quite crowded. To manage the high demand, bus companies often collaborate with speedboat services. 

These speedboats transport passengers directly to the town of Cat Ba without any additional cost. This option offers a faster and more convenient way to reach Cat Ba town, bypassing the crowded ferries.

Access Cat Ba Island

For those traveling by train from Hanoi to Haiphong or if you are already in Haiphong, the best option is to head to Pha Binh port. This port is located about 10 kilometers from the center of Haiphong. 

From Pha Binh, you can take a boat operated by one of several companies that will transport you directly to the town of Cat Ba. You can purchase tickets either at the port or in advance at your hotel in Haiphong, making it a flexible and convenient option for travelers.

Access via cable car

Vietnam loves cable cars as much as the French love roundabouts. Therefore, a cable car has been built, linking the port of Pha Got to Cat Ba Island! However, as of May 2023, the cable car is not yet operational.

Now, you have all the details needed to travel from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island!

FAQs

How long does it take to get from Ninh Binh to Cat Ba?

The journey from Ninh Binh to Cat Ba typically takes around 5 to 6 hours. This includes the bus ride to Hai Phong and the ferry trip to Cat Ba Island.

Are there direct buses from Ninh Binh to Cat Ba?

Yes, some travel companies offer direct bus services from Ninh Binh to Cat Ba, including the ferry transfer. This option is hassle-free and ideal for travelers looking for a straightforward route.

How much does it cost to travel from Ninh Binh to Cat Ba?

The cost can vary depending on the mode of transportation and the service provider. On average, the bus and ferry combination costs around $15 to $20 per person.

Conclusion

Traveling from Ninh Binh to Cat Ba is a delightful journey that combines the beauty of Vietnam’s landscapes with the convenience of modern transportation. Whether you choose a direct bus service or a combination of bus and ferry, planning ahead and knowing your options will ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Embrace the adventure and get ready to explore the stunning Cat Ba Island!