{"id":7423,"date":"2026-08-25T17:56:40","date_gmt":"2026-08-25T10:56:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/?p=7423"},"modified":"2026-08-25T17:56:40","modified_gmt":"2026-08-25T10:56:40","slug":"get-from-halong-bay-to-cat-ba-island","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/get-from-halong-bay-to-cat-ba-island\/","title":{"rendered":"[2026] How to Get from Halong Bay to Cat Ba Island?"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_86 ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #003458;color:#003458\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #003458;color:#003458\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/get-from-halong-bay-to-cat-ba-island\/#How_Far_Is_Cat_Ba_Island_from_Halong_Bay\" >How Far Is Cat Ba Island from Halong Bay?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/get-from-halong-bay-to-cat-ba-island\/#Option_1_Ferry_from_Halong_Bay_to_Cat_Ba_Island_Most_Popular\" >Option 1: Ferry from Halong Bay to Cat Ba Island (Most Popular)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/get-from-halong-bay-to-cat-ba-island\/#Returning_from_Cat_Ba_to_Halong_Bay_Reverse_Ferry\" >Returning from Cat Ba to Halong Bay (Reverse Ferry)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/get-from-halong-bay-to-cat-ba-island\/#Option_2_Speedboat_and_Hydrofoil_Fastest_Crossing\" >Option 2: Speedboat and Hydrofoil (Fastest Crossing)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/get-from-halong-bay-to-cat-ba-island\/#Option_3_The_Road_Route_via_Hai_Phong_When_It_Makes_Sense\" >Option 3: The Road Route via Hai Phong (When It Makes Sense)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/get-from-halong-bay-to-cat-ba-island\/#Option_4_Cruise_from_Halong_Bay_to_Cat_Ba_Island_No_Ferry_Needed\" >Option 4: Cruise from Halong Bay to Cat Ba Island (No Ferry Needed)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/get-from-halong-bay-to-cat-ba-island\/#Should_You_Visit_Halong_Bay_First_or_Cat_Ba_Island_First\" >Should You Visit Halong Bay First or Cat Ba Island First?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/get-from-halong-bay-to-cat-ba-island\/#Practical_Tips_for_the_Halong_Bay_to_Cat_Ba_Island_Crossing\" >Practical Tips for the Halong Bay to Cat Ba Island Crossing<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/get-from-halong-bay-to-cat-ba-island\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/get-from-halong-bay-to-cat-ba-island\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<div id=\"bsf_rt_marker\"><\/div><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cat Ba Island and Halong Bay share the same seascape of limestone towers, yet they sit on opposite sides of one short stretch of water. The distance between two places is small. Cat Ba Island lies roughly 22 km (14 miles) from Halong City, and the water crossing takes anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 hours depending on the boat you choose.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This guide walks you through every way to make the journey, in both directions. You will find current ferry schedules, ticket prices, speedboat options, and practical arrival tips. By the end, you will know which crossing suits your budget, timing, and plans, whether you travel Halong Bay to Cat Ba Island or the reverse.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Far_Is_Cat_Ba_Island_from_Halong_Bay\"><\/span><b>How Far Is Cat Ba Island from Halong Bay?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cat Ba Island sits about 22 km (14 miles) from Halong City in a straight line, but the practical sea route is shorter. From Tuan Chau Harbor to Gia Luan Pier, boats cover roughly 12 km (7 miles) of open water.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In addition, Gia Luan Pier sits about 25 km (16 miles) from Cat Ba Town. Counting the drive to the harbor, the water crossing, and the transfer into town, most people spend 1.5 to 2 hours door to door.<\/span><\/p>\n<div style=\"width: 100%; margin: 20px 0;\">\n<table style=\"width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 15px; color: #444444;\">\n<thead>\n<tr style=\"background-color: #003458; color: #ffffff;\">\n<th style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 12px 14px; text-align: center; font-weight: bold;\">Crossing<\/th>\n<th style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 12px 14px; text-align: center; font-weight: bold;\">Direction<\/th>\n<th style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 12px 14px; text-align: center; font-weight: bold;\">Travel time<\/th>\n<th style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 12px 14px; text-align: center; font-weight: bold;\">Approx. cost<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"background-color: #eaf4fb;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px; font-weight: 600;\">Tuan Chau to Gia Luan (ferry)<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px;\">Halong to Cat Ba<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px;\">45 to 50 min<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px;\">60,000 to 80,000 VND<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px; font-weight: 600;\">Tuan Chau to Gia Luan (hydrofoil)<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px;\">Halong to Cat Ba<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px;\">10 to 15 min<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px;\">160,000 to 200,000 VND<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background-color: #eaf4fb;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px; font-weight: 600;\">Via Hai Phong (road and ferry)<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px;\">Cat Ba to Halong<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px;\">3 to 4 hrs<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px;\">Varies<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">All prices and travel details are for reference only and may be subject to change. Please confirm with your operator before booking.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/d\/u\/0\/embed?mid=12le7VJcgqsjv5zcdyQsyMTB2i4u_1Lk&amp;ehbc=2E312F\" width=\"900\" height=\"450\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Option_1_Ferry_from_Halong_Bay_to_Cat_Ba_Island_Most_Popular\"><\/span><b>Option 1: Ferry from Halong Bay to Cat Ba Island (Most Popular)<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Tuan Chau to Gia Luan ferry is the most popular way to reach Cat Ba Island from Halong Bay. It is affordable and threads through some of the bay&#8217;s most photographed karst scenery on the way. The route runs from Tuan Chau Harbor in Halong City to Gia Luan Pier on the northern tip of Cat Ba Island, a crossing of about 45 to 50 minutes.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Departure frequency changes with the season. In the high season, roughly April 16 to September 30, the ferry runs five times a day. In the low season, October 1 to April 15, it drops to three daily departures.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The ferry will not leave until at least 30 passengers are aboard, so early sailings can wait. You better arrive early, especially on weekdays when foot traffic is lighter.<\/span><\/p>\n<div style=\"width: 100%; margin: 20px 0;\">\n<table style=\"width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 15px; color: #444444;\">\n<thead>\n<tr style=\"background-color: #003458; color: #ffffff;\">\n<th style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 12px 14px; text-align: center; font-weight: bold;\">Season<\/th>\n<th style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 12px 14px; text-align: center; font-weight: bold;\">Daily departures<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"background-color: #eaf4fb;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px; font-weight: 600;\">High (Apr 16 to Sep 30)<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px;\">09:00, 11:30, 13:00, 15:00, 16:00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px; font-weight: 600;\">Low (Oct 1 to Apr 15)<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px;\">09:00, 13:00, 16:00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This crossing suits budget-minded travelers, anyone bringing a motorbike, and those who want a scenic passage rather than the fastest one. Note that tickets are sold at the terminal counter in cash only.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<div style=\"width: 100%; margin: 20px 0;\">\n<table style=\"width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 15px; color: #444444;\">\n<thead>\n<tr style=\"background-color: #003458; color: #ffffff;\">\n<th style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 12px 14px; text-align: center; font-weight: bold;\">Passenger or vehicle<\/th>\n<th style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 12px 14px; text-align: center; font-weight: bold;\">Approx. fare<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"background-color: #eaf4fb;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px; font-weight: 600;\">Adult, walk-on<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px;\">60,000 to 80,000 VND<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px; font-weight: 600;\">Child under 1.2 m<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px;\">Free<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background-color: #eaf4fb;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px; font-weight: 600;\">Motorbike<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px;\">Additional charge<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px; font-weight: 600;\">Car<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px;\">On request<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Schedules and fares shift by season and operator, so confirm current times before you travel. Travelers who would rather cruise than commute can compare<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/halong-bay-cruises\/2-day-1-night-tour\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Halong Bay 2-day cruise tours<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> that board near Tuan Chau.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Returning_from_Cat_Ba_to_Halong_Bay_Reverse_Ferry\"><\/span><b>Returning from Cat Ba to Halong Bay (Reverse Ferry)<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The return ferry runs from Gia Luan Pier back to Tuan Chau Harbor on the same seasonal timetable. Fares match the outbound trip, and tickets again are sold only at the pier counter in cash (VND).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In this route, you should plan the land leg first. Cat Ba Town to Gia Luan Pier is about 25 km (16 miles), or 30-40 minutes by taxi or shared shuttle. The road crosses Cat Ba National Park and stays quiet, so arrange your transfer in advance rather than counting on a taxi waiting at the pier.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-628 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/image14.jpg\" alt=\"ferry haiphong to catba\" width=\"666\" height=\"960\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/image14.jpg 666w, https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/image14-208x300.jpg 208w, https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/image14-600x865.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 666px) 100vw, 666px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Option_2_Speedboat_and_Hydrofoil_Fastest_Crossing\"><\/span><b>Option 2: Speedboat and Hydrofoil (Fastest Crossing)<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For travelers short on time, faster boats cross the same water at a premium. Two categories run from Tuan Chau Harbor.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>A standard speedboat<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> makes the trip in 20-30 minutes for about 250,000 to 350,000 VND\/ person.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>A hydrofoil<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is quicker still, completing the crossing in 10 to 15 minutes.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Two hydrofoil operators currently serve this route. Paradise Express charges around 160,000 VND one way, and Kalong Hydrofoil charges around 200,000 VND one way. Both carry passengers only, with no room for motorbikes or cars.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hydrofoil departures are limited, often no more than two per day, so booking ahead matters.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The reliable reservation is to book through a local travel specialist who can confirm the timetable and secure your seat before you arrive. Fast boats suit families with young children, tight itineraries, and anyone who would rather keep the water crossing brief.<\/span><\/p>\n<div style=\"width: 100%; margin: 20px 0;\">\n<table style=\"width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 15px; color: #444444;\">\n<thead>\n<tr style=\"background-color: #003458; color: #ffffff;\">\n<th style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 12px 14px; text-align: center; font-weight: bold;\">Operator<\/th>\n<th style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 12px 14px; text-align: center; font-weight: bold;\">Duration<\/th>\n<th style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 12px 14px; text-align: center; font-weight: bold;\">Approx. price<\/th>\n<th style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 12px 14px; text-align: center; font-weight: bold;\">Notes<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"background-color: #eaf4fb;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px; font-weight: 600;\">Paradise Express<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px;\">10 to 15 min<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px;\">165,000 VND &#8211; 200,000 VND\/one way<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px;\">Book via local agent<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px; font-weight: 600;\">Kalong Hydrofoil<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px;\">10 to 15 min<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px;\">200,000 VND\/ one way<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; padding: 10px 14px;\">Book via local agent<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Operator prices and departure counts change often, so verify both before you commit.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Option_3_The_Road_Route_via_Hai_Phong_When_It_Makes_Sense\"><\/span><b>Option 3: The Road Route via Hai Phong (When It Makes Sense)<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The road route through Hai Phong is the long way around, and it rarely beats the direct ferry for a simple Halong-to-Cat Ba transfer, since travel to the port is now faster and more comfortable due to recent expressway expansions.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">First, you take a ferry from Cat Ba Island to Hai Phong (about 30 to 60 minutes), followed by a car journey from Hai Phong to Ha Long City, which takes approximately one hour to cover a distance of nearly 50 km.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Door to door, you can expect 3 to 4 hours against 1.5 to 2 hours for the direct sea route.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Although inconvenient, it makes sense when you are already arriving from Hanoi by road, or connecting through Hai Phong for onward travel.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Option_4_Cruise_from_Halong_Bay_to_Cat_Ba_Island_No_Ferry_Needed\"><\/span><b>Option 4: Cruise from Halong Bay to Cat Ba Island (No Ferry Needed)<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The most relaxed way to reach the waters around Cat Ba Island is a cruise that already covers both bays. Lan Ha Bay lies on the southern side of Cat Ba Island, joined to Halong Bay by open water, so one itinerary can sail across both without a ferry ticket or a road transfer.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This option trades the quick point-to-point crossing for a slower journey with cabins, meals, and guided stops along the way. Specifically, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/lan-ha-bay-cruises\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bhaya&#8217;s Lan Ha Bay cruises<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> follow this route, threading between limestone islets, floating villages, and swimming spots that day-trippers rarely reach.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is an ideal choice if you want both bays to feel like a seamless trip rather than two stops linked by a ferry.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-2800 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/catbaisland.jpg\" alt=\"cat ba island\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/catbaisland.jpg 800w, https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/catbaisland-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/catbaisland-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/catbaisland-370x278.jpg 370w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Should_You_Visit_Halong_Bay_First_or_Cat_Ba_Island_First\"><\/span><b>Should You Visit Halong Bay First or Cat Ba Island First?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The order of your visit affects the logistics more than most travelers expect. Use this quick guide to decide.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Visit Halong Bay first<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> if your cruise boards from Tuan Chau Harbor and you do not need to return to Hanoi between stops. You can take the ferry to Cat Ba Island at the end of your cruise, turning the transfer into your next leg.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Visit Cat Ba Island first<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> if you are arriving from Hanoi by the Hai Phong road route. Starting on the island lets you move north toward Halong Bay rather than doubling back.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Otherwise, you can skip the choice entirely with a cruise that covers both. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/the-au-co-cruise\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Au Co&#8217;s 3-day voyage<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> runs across Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay, removing the transfer question entirely. For a slower, wellness-focused take on the same route,<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/bhaya-soul-cruise\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bhaya Soul<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> sails a boutique itinerary through both bays.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Practical_Tips_for_the_Halong_Bay_to_Cat_Ba_Island_Crossing\"><\/span><b>Practical Tips for the Halong Bay to Cat Ba Island Crossing<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A few on-the-ground habits make the crossing smoother in either direction.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Arrive at the pier 30 to 45 minutes before departure, since ferries board on a first-come basis and can fill on busy days.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Carry cash in Vietnamese Dong, because neither Tuan Chau nor Gia Luan terminals accept card payment.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Avoid weekend and holiday vehicle crossings in high season, when car queues can stretch 1.5 to 3 hours. Walk-on passengers rarely face the same wait.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Arrange your Gia Luan to Cat Ba Town transfer in advance. The 25 km (16 mile) road takes 30 to 40 minutes, and on-the-spot taxi rates run higher.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Check the forecast before you travel, especially in the typhoon season from August to October, when weather can delay or cancel sailings.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span><b>Conclusion<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Tuan Chau to Gia Luan ferry remains the most reliable and scenic way to cross between Halong Bay and Cat Ba Island, while speedboats and hydrofoils reward travelers who value speed over savings. If you would rather skip ferry tickets and transfers altogether, a cruise across both bays does the work for you.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Planning a voyage through both Halong Bay and Cat Ba Island?<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/halong-bay-cruises\/4-day-3-night-tour\/4-day-the-au-co-luxury-gulf-tokin-package\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Au Co&#8217;s signature 4-day route<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> carries you across both stretches of water, from towering karsts to quiet fishing villages, without changing boats.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span><b>Frequently Asked Questions<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<details style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; border-radius: 6px; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: left;\">\n<summary style=\"justify-content: space-between; align-items: center; padding: 18px 22px; cursor: pointer; font-weight: bold; text-align: left;\">Is there a train from Halong Bay to Cat Ba Island?<\/summary>\n<div style=\"padding: 0 22px 20px; border-top: 1px solid #e8e3dc; text-align: left;\">\n<p style=\"line-height: 1.8; padding-top: 16px; margin: 0; text-align: left;\">No. Cat Ba Island has no railway and can only be reached by sea. The most practical option is the <strong>Tuan Chau\u2013Gia Luan ferry<\/strong>, which operates daily year-round. Travelers arriving from Hanoi by train can get off in Hai Phong and continue to Cat Ba by speedboat or road.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n<details style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; border-radius: 6px; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: left;\">\n<summary style=\"justify-content: space-between; align-items: center; padding: 18px 22px; cursor: pointer; font-weight: bold; text-align: left;\">How much does the ferry from Halong Bay to Cat Ba Island cost?<\/summary>\n<div style=\"padding: 0 22px 20px; border-top: 1px solid #e8e3dc; text-align: left;\">\n<p style=\"line-height: 1.8; padding-top: 16px; margin: 0; text-align: left;\">As of 2026, a standard passenger ticket on the <strong>Tuan Chau\u2013Gia Luan ferry<\/strong> costs approximately <strong>60,000\u201380,000 VND per person<\/strong>, or about USD 2.50\u20133.50. Motorbikes and cars incur additional charges. Fares are paid in cash at the terminal and may change, so confirm the current price before travelling.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n<details style=\"border: 1px solid #d9d4cb; border-radius: 6px; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: left;\">\n<summary style=\"justify-content: space-between; align-items: center; padding: 18px 22px; cursor: pointer; font-weight: bold; text-align: left;\">Can I combine Halong Bay and Cat Ba Island on one cruise?<\/summary>\n<div style=\"padding: 0 22px 20px; border-top: 1px solid #e8e3dc; text-align: left;\">\n<p style=\"line-height: 1.8; padding-top: 16px; margin: 0; text-align: left;\">Yes. Several multi-day itineraries, including <strong>The Au Co<\/strong> and <strong>Bhaya Soul by Bhaya Cruises<\/strong>, cover both Halong Bay and <strong>Lan Ha Bay<\/strong>, the waters surrounding Cat Ba Island. These itineraries eliminate the need for a separate ferry transfer and allow you to experience both bays as part of a single cruise.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Cat Ba Island and Halong Bay share the same seascape of limestone towers, yet they sit on opposite sides of one short stretch of water. The distance between two places is small. Cat Ba Island lies roughly 22 km (14 miles) from Halong City, and the water crossing takes anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 [&#8230;]\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":6677,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[88,402,463,1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-7423","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-transportation","category-cat-ba-island","category-halong-bay","category-travel-guide"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7423","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/5"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7423"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7423\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":7424,"href":"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7423\/revisions\/7424"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/6677"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7423"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=7423"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=7423"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}