How to Get from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island: Bus, Ferry, or Train?

Cat Ba Island, located on the edge of Lan Ha Bay, is a must-visit destination for travelers in northern Vietnam. Just 150 km from Hanoi, it’s accessible through different transport options that suit various travel styles — from adventurous motorbike rides to comfortable tourist buses and speedy hydrofoils.

Below, we’ll guide you through the most popular ways to get from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island, along with tips on the best time to go and what to prepare before your journey.

1. Traveling by Motorbike (For Adventure Lovers)

Traveling to Cat Ba by motorbike

For independent travelers, renting a motorbike and riding from Hanoi to Cat Ba can be an unforgettable adventure. The journey is about 150–160 km, taking 4–5 hours depending on the route and traffic. The ride gives you the freedom to stop at local villages, enjoy countryside landscapes, and explore hidden spots along the way.

The most common route is from Hanoi to Hai Phong, where you’ll take a ferry or cable car to reach Cat Ba Island. Ferry crossings usually take 20–30 minutes. If you choose the cable car, the ride is much quicker and offers stunning panoramic views of Lan Ha Bay.

This option is best for confident riders, as traffic in Vietnam can be chaotic. Always wear a helmet, check weather conditions, and carry your international driver’s license if required.

2. Bus from Hanoi + Ferry or Cable Car (Most Convenient)

Getting to Cat Ba from Hanoi by bus

The bus is the most popular and hassle-free way to reach Cat Ba. Tourist buses depart daily from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, combining both road transfer and ferry (or cable car) tickets. The total journey takes around 3.5–4.5 hours, and tickets cost $13 per person.

If you choose the ferry, buses usually drive directly to Dong Bai pier, where you’ll board a ferry for a short 20–30 minute ride to Cat Ba Island. Alternatively, you can take the Cat Hai – Phu Long cable car, one of the longest over-sea cable cars in the world. It crosses Lan Ha Bay in about 10 minutes, with breathtaking views of limestone mountains and floating villages. From Phu Long, a shuttle bus or taxi takes another 30 minutes to Cat Ba Town.

This option is perfect for first-time visitors who want a smooth and straightforward transfer without multiple connections.

You can book your bus ticket through this link: BUS TO CAT BA ISLAND FROM HANOI

Or contact our hotline at +84 989 745 338.

3. Train or Bus to Hai Phong + Speedboat to Cat Ba

Cat Ba speedboat

Another great option is to first travel to Hai Phong, Vietnam’s third-largest city, and then continue to Cat Ba by speedboat.

From Hanoi, you can take a train (about 2.5 hours, $3–5 USD) or a bus (2–3 hours) to Hai Phong. Once in Hai Phong, head to Ben Binh pier or Đong Bai pier, where high-speed boats and hydrofoils depart frequently to Cat Ba. The ride takes 25–30 minutes and costs around $6–10 USD.

This method is ideal if you want flexibility — you can explore Hai Phong city for a few hours before catching a boat. It’s also one of the fastest water transfer options, minimizing travel time once you’re at the pier.

4. Best Time to Visit Cat Ba Island

Road to Cat Ba town

The best time to visit Cat Ba is during spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October), when the weather is warm, dry, and perfect for swimming or cruising Lan Ha Bay.

Summer (July–August) is also a good time but expect hotter temperatures and occasional heavy rains.

Winter (December–February) is cooler and less suitable for swimming, though it’s quieter and ideal for trekking.

5. Travel Tips for Getting to Cat Ba

Book tickets in advance, especially during weekends and holidays.
Carry cash, as small ferries and local transport may not accept cards.
Check weather forecasts — heavy rain or storms can affect ferry and cable car schedules.
Pack light, especially if you’re using buses or speedboats with luggage limits.
For families with kids, bus + cable car is the most comfortable and scenic choice.