Cat Ba Bus: The most affordable way to explore the island

Travel around Cat Ba easily and affordably with the Cat Ba Bus. Updated routes, ticket prices, and tips for a smooth, eco-friendly island journey.

1. Why take the Cat Ba Bus?

In recent years, Cat Ba Bus has become one of the most popular public transportation options for both locals and travelers on Cat Ba Island. Known for its low cost, eco-friendly operation, and increasing network coverage, the bus system offers a convenient and sustainable way to explore the island.

With just a few dollars, you can travel the entire 50 km route from Hai Phong city center to the island without worrying about traffic or extra fees — making it an ideal choice for travelers who value comfort, affordability, and green travel experiences.

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Bus to Cat Ba

2. Current Cat Ba Bus routes (updated 2025)

Route No. 14: Cai Vieng ferry – Cat Ba Town

Officially operated since April 15, 2023
Serves both locals and tourists
Frequency: 40 trips/day (20 each way)
Ticket price: 13,000 VND per ride

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Cat Ba – Hai Phong bus route

Route No. 16C: Thuong Ly bus station – Dong Bai ferry

Directly connects to Route 14
Ticket price: 13,000 VND per ride (since 2023 fare adjustment)
Total cost (Hai Phong City → Cat Ba Island, including ferry): around 38,000 VND
Frequency: 48 trips/day
Highlight: No traffic worries. pedestrians always have space on the ferry.

3. New electric bus service by Sun Group

A new electric bus route was officially launched by Sun Group in 2025, connecting Phu Long cable car station with Green Island Bay (Xanh Island) in central Cat Ba.

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Electric bus route: Phu Long Cable Car Station – Xanh Island

10 electric buses in service since April 18, 2025, expanded to 20 from May 16, 2025
High frequency: over 150 trips/day
Direct connection from Phu Long cable car station, with a parking lot available at Sun World Cat Ba
Travelers can purchase a cable car + electric bus combo ticket for only 100,000 VND/person — a fast, modern, and eco-friendly way to reach the island.

4. Cat Ba Bus ticket prices

Route	From – To	Ticket Price
Route 16C	Thuong Ly – Dong Bai Ferry	13,000 VND
Ferry	Dong Bai – Cai Vieng	12,000 VND
Route 14	Cai Vieng – Cat Ba Town	13,000 VND

5. Travel tips for using Cat Ba Bus

To make your Cat Ba bus journey smooth and enjoyable, keep these practical tips in mind:

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Travelers board the electric bus to reach Cat Ba town center

Start from Thuong Ly station – it’s the most convenient transfer point, located near Hai Phong railway station. From there, it’s just a 5-minute walk (300m) to the bus stop at Pham Ngu Lao – Tran Phu intersection for route 16C.
Avoid midday travel if you’re carrying heavy luggage or traveling with elderly people or kids — buses have limited storage space.
Combine the cable car & Sun Group electric bus if you prefer a faster, more scenic, and comfortable journey from Phu Long to central Cat Ba.
Bring cash — bus and ferry tickets are usually paid on board.
During peak tourist season (may – september), arrive early to secure seats.

6. FAQs about Cat Ba Bus

6.1. Does the Cat Ba Bus operate at night?

No. Currently, Cat Ba buses run daily from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm. If you need to travel later at night, consider taking a taxi or electric shuttle within the town.

6.2. Is there a direct bus from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island?

Not exactly. There’s no direct public bus from Hanoi to Cat Ba. You’ll need to travel to Hai Phong first, then connect via:

Bus 16C – Thuong Ly Bus Station → Dong Bai Ferry
Ferry crossing – Dong Bai → Cai Vieng
Bus 14 – Cai Vieng → Cat Ba Town

For convenience, many operators offer Hanoi–Cat Ba combo bus tickets that include all transfers.

6.3. Can I book Cat Ba bus or ferry tickets in advance?

Usually, there’s no need to pre-book public bus or ferry tickets, you can buy them directly at the station.

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The electric buses gather at Phu Long Station to pick up passengers

Conclusion

The Cat Ba Bus system offers an affordable, eco-friendly, and reliable way to explore the islBai, whether you’re a backpacker or a family traveler. With well-connected routes from Hai Phong City, through Dong Bai – Cai Vieng Ferry, all the way to Cat Ba Town, getting around has never been easier.

If you need help planning your journey or combining your bus transfer with a tour, feel free to contact Cat Ba Du Ky via +84 989 745 338 for friendly and quick assistance!

If you’d like to explore Cat Ba Island, you can also check out our full-package Cat Ba tours below: