Cat Ba Ferry from Dong Bai Pier: A complete guide for travelers

Cat Ba ferry from Dong Bai Pier: find schedules, ticket prices, travel time, and useful tips to make your journey to Cat Ba Island easy and budget-friendly.

1. Introduction to Cat Ba ferry

Cat Ba Island, the largest island in Lan Ha Bay, is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Northern Vietnam. To reach this paradise, one of the most common and budget-friendly ways is by taking the Cat Ba ferry from Dong Bai Pier.

BAY VIEW - Cat Ba ferry

This ferry route is not just a transport option—it’s the main connection for locals and travelers alike, especially those bringing motorbikes, cars, or traveling in groups. Compared to speedboats or cable cars, the ferry offers flexibility, affordability, and the charm of sailing through scenic coastal waters. If you’re planning to visit Cat Ba with your own vehicle or prefer a slower, more relaxed journey, this ferry is the ideal choice.

2. Overview of Dong Bai Pier

Dong Bai Pier is located in Hai Phong, about 20 km from the city center, and serves as the main departure point for ferries heading to Cat Ba Island. It’s easy to reach from Hanoi or Hai Phong, making it a convenient hub for both domestic and international travelers.

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Vehicles transported by Cat Ba ferry

Key features of Dong Bai Pier:

Largest ferry terminal to Cat Ba: Most ferries transporting both passengers and vehicles operate here.
Multi-purpose capacity: Suitable for pedestrians, motorbikes, cars, and even buses.
Gateway to Cat Ba: It connects directly to Cai Vieng Pier on Cat Ba Island.

Whether you’re driving a motorbike along Vietnam’s coastal roads or joining a group tour, Dong Bai Pier ensures a smooth transfer onto the island without complicated arrangements.

3. Cat Ba ferry schedule & operating hours

Passenger seating area

The Cat Ba ferry from Dong Bai Pier runs daily, with frequent departures throughout the day.

Operating hours: Typically from 6:00 AM until around 5:00–6:00 PM.
Frequency: Every 30–60 minutes, depending on the season. During summer and public holidays, ferries run more often to meet demand.
Best time to go: Early morning or mid-afternoon to avoid long queues, especially on weekends and holidays when many locals also travel to Cat Ba.

It’s a good idea to arrive at the pier 30 minutes before departure, particularly if you’re bringing a car, as boarding can take longer during busy periods.

4. Cat Ba ferry ticket prices

Overview of Cat Ba ferry

Taking the ferry is one of the most economical ways to reach Cat Ba Island. Prices vary depending on whether you’re traveling on foot or bringing a vehicle:

Adults: around 12,000 VND per person
Motorbikes: about 50,000 – 60,000 VND including the rider
Cars: from 190,000 VND upwards, depending on the vehicle size

Note: Tickets are purchased directly at the ticket counter at Dong Bai Pier—online booking is not yet available.

5. How to get to Dong Bai Pier

Seating along the corridor where passengers can enjoy the scenery

Getting to Dong Bai Pier is straightforward from both Hanoi and Hai Phong:

From Hanoi (120 km):

By bus/limousine: 2.5–3 hours, then transfer to a taxi to Dong Bai Pier.
By private car: around 2.5 hours via the expressway.

From Hai Phong City (20 km):

Taxi or Grab: 30–40 minutes.
Motorbike: about 40 minutes.

For foreign travelers, booking a bus or private transfer from Hanoi directly to Dong Bai Pier is the most convenient choice, especially if you’re carrying luggage.

Note: You can book your bus ticket to Cat Ba via the link below: BUS TO CAT BA ISLAND FROM HANOI

6. Cat Ba ferry duration & onboard experience

The ferry ride from Dong Bai Pier to Cai Vieng Pier on Cat Ba Island takes around 20–30 minutes. While the journey is short, it offers a pleasant introduction to the island’s charm.

Food counter on the ferry

What to expect on board:

Bring your vehicle: Motorbikes, cars, and even buses can board easily.
Scenic views: Enjoy open-air seating and views of fishing boats, calm waters, and the distant limestone karsts.
Basic facilities: Simple seating, toilets, and shaded areas are available, though don’t expect luxury amenities.
Fresh sea breeze: A chance to soak in the coastal vibe before arriving on the island.

7. Alternatives to Cat Ba Ferry

Life jacket storage area

While the ferry is practical and affordable, travelers can also consider other transport options:

Cable Car (Cat Hai – Phu Long): A faster, more scenic ride with modern cabins, followed by a shuttle bus to Cat Ba town.
Speedboats (from Ben Binh or Ben Got): Quicker transfers directly to Cat Ba, but more expensive and limited for vehicles.

If you’re traveling light and value speed, the cable car or speedboat may suit you better. However, for groups or those bringing vehicles, the ferry remains the most convenient.

Enjoying the sunset aboard the Cat Ba ferry

8. FAQs about Cat Ba Ferry from Dong Bai Pier

Q: Does the ferry operate year-round?
Yes, it runs daily, though schedules may be reduced during extreme weather.

Q: Can I book tickets online?
No, tickets can only be purchased directly at Dong Bai Pier.

Q: How often does a ferry depart?
Every 30–60 minutes, depending on the season and time of day.

Q: Can large cars or buses board the ferry?
Yes, the ferry can accommodate vehicles of all sizes.

Conclusion

The Cat Ba ferry from Dong Bai Pier is a reliable and budget-friendly choice for reaching the island, especially for those traveling with vehicles or in groups. It may not be as fast as the cable car or speedboat, but it offers flexibility, affordability, and a glimpse of local travel culture.

If you’d like to explore Cat Ba Island, feel free to contact Cat Ba Du Ky Travel at +84 989 745 338 for travel advice. You can also check out our full-package Cat Ba tours below: