How to Rent a Motorbike in Cat Ba: Full guide for travelers

Looking to rent a motorbike in Cat Ba? Get the full guide with prices, reliable rental shops, safety advice, and the best island routes for an unforgettable trip.

1. Introduction to motorbike rental in Cat Ba

Exploring Cat Ba by motorbike is one of the best choices for international travelers. It gives you freedom to stop wherever you like, enjoy breathtaking coastal roads, and reach hidden villages or caves that buses cannot access. Riding through Cat Ba’s mix of lush jungle and dramatic seaside cliffs feels like stepping into a postcard.

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Rental motorbike in Cat Ba

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know before you rent a motorbike in Cat Ba: average prices, trusted rental shops, documents required, the best routes, and practical safety tips. Whether you’re here for one day or a week, renting a motorbike will let you experience Cat Ba at your own pace.

2. Overview of motorbike rental in Cat Ba

Renting a motorbike is extremely common in Cat Ba. You’ll find dozens of rental shops around the town, especially along Nui Ngoc Street and Road 1/4, as well as near the harbor where ferries and speedboats arrive.

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International travelers riding motorbikes in Cat Ba

Most shops offer:

Automatic scooters (110–125cc): easy to ride, good for town and coastal roads.
Manual bikes: stronger engine, better if you plan to tackle steep hills or longer trips.
Daily prices: usually between 100,000–150,000 VND (around $4–6 USD) for a standard automatic bike. Manual or more powerful models can be slightly higher.

Because the island is compact but diverse, motorbikes are the most flexible way to get around. Unlike taxis or tours, you can stop for photos, explore side roads, and truly enjoy the scenery.

3. Trusted motorbike rental shops in Cat Ba

Not every shop maintains their bikes properly, so choosing a reliable one is important. Based on international traveler reviews, here are three trusted options:

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Dung Yen rental motorbike shop

Mr. Tung Motorbike Rental (250 Road 1/4, Cat Ba Town)

Well-maintained bikes, friendly owner
Full tank on delivery, helmets included
Transparent service, 5-star reviews

Dung Yen Motorbike Shop (188 Nui Ngoc Street, Cat Ba Town)

Clear pricing, no hidden fees
Reliable bikes, easy pick-up near the center
Popular among backpackers

Tuan Dat Motorbike Rental (226 Road 1/4, Cat Ba Town)

Both automatic and manual bikes available
Flexible service, English-speaking staff
Good choice for mixed travel groups

4. Requirements & motorbike rental process

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Enjoying a motorbike trip around Cat Ba

Renting a motorbike in Cat Ba is straightforward, but keep these points in mind:

Riding license: While many shops rent without checking, it’s safer to bring an international riding permit if you have one. Some accept a car license with a passport as backup.
Passport & deposit: Usually, you leave your passport or ID plus a small deposit (around 200,000 VND). Some shops accept a photocopy instead.
Inspection: Always check brakes, lights, mirrors, tires, and horn before riding.
Agreement: Confirm the price, fuel policy, return time, and possible late fees.

A quick 10-minute process, and you’ll be ready to hit the road!

5. Pricing of motorbike rental in Cat Ba

Motorbike rental in Cat Ba is affordable, but you should budget for a few extras:

Rental fee: ~100,000–150,000 VND/day ($4–6 USD). More powerful bikes cost ~180,000–200,000 VND.
Fuel: Around 50,000 VND/day if you ride a lot (gas stations are in town).
Extras: Ferry fee if you bring the bike from Hai Phong - Delivery or pick-up service (some shops charge a small fee) - Late return penalty - Repair costs if damage is due to misuse

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High‑capacity motorbikes suitable for challenging roads

6. Choosing the right motorbike

Not sure which bike suits you best? Here’s a quick guide:

Automatic (scooter):

Easy to handle, great for beginners
Perfect for town rides, beach hopping, and short distances

Manual (semi-automatic or clutch):

Better for steep hills and long trips
Recommended if you’re experienced and want more control

Tips before deciding:

Check engine size (110–125cc is enough for Cat Ba).
Inspect the condition: avoid old, rusty bikes.
Ask for a helmet that fits properly and is in good condition.

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Riding a motorbike on Cat Ba Island

7. Suggested routes and destinations

With your motorbike ready, here are some scenic rides you shouldn’t miss:

Coastal loop: Cat Ba Town → Cannon Fort → Cat Co beaches (1, 2, 3) → return along the seafront road.
National Park adventure: Ride through lush jungle to Cat Ba National Park, then continue to Viet Hai Village for a trek or boat ride.
Caves & history: Visit Hospital Cave and Trung Trang Cave, both along the main road inland.

If you have 1–2 days, combine routes to experience both the coastline and the mountains. Each turn brings new landscapes worth a photo stop.

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The road to Cat Ba National Park

8. Safety tips & practical advice

Driving in Cat Ba is fun but requires caution. Keep these in mind:

Always wear a helmet that meets safety standards.
Avoid driving at night or during heavy rain.
Drive slowly, especially on winding mountain roads.
Keep a safe distance from buses and trucks.
Bring offline maps or a SIM card with data.
Carry a power bank to keep your phone charged.

And remember: don’t rush. Part of the joy is stopping at viewpoints and enjoying the island’s calm atmosphere.

9. FAQ about motorbike rental in Cat Ba

Q1: Do I need a Vietnamese motorbike license?
Most rental shops don’t require it, but for safety and insurance, having an international license is better.

Q2: Will the shop keep my passport?
Yes, many ask to hold it as security, but some accept a copy with a deposit. Ask before renting.

Q3: What if the bike breaks down?
Contact the shop – most offer roadside help or will swap the bike for you.

Q4: Is fuel included?
Usually, no. You’ll return the bike with the same amount of fuel it came with.

10. Conclusion

Renting a motorbike is the easiest and most affordable way to explore Cat Ba. For just a few dollars a day, you’ll gain full freedom to enjoy stunning coastal roads, national parks, and local villages. If you’re ready to make the most of your trip, don’t hesitate to rent a motorbike in Cat Ba—it’s an adventure you won’t forget!

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: