Hai Phong To Cat Ba Island By Ferry: Transport Guide
Getting from Hai Phong to Cat Ba feels like a nice little change of pace. One minute you’re in the middle of the city, and not long after you’re heading across the water with Cat Ba’s green hills getting closer.
I’ve done this journey in different ways, and once you know how the crossings work, it’s very straightforward. In this guide, I’ll share the easiest options and the little details that make the trip much smoother.
Hai Phong to Cat Ba overview
| Option | Journey time | I’d choose it if… | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ben Binh speedboat | 1 hour | You’re in central Hai Phong with luggage | Book Cat Ba speedboat → |
| Dong Bai ferry | Longer door to door | You’re bringing a motorbike or car | Buy locally |
| Cat Ba cable car | 15 minutes | You want a more scenic crossing | Book cable car ticket |
Hai Phong to Cat Ba by speedboat
The direct speedboat from Ben Binh is my favorite option if you’re staying around central Hai Phong. Ben Binh is right in the city, so you don’t need to travel out towards Cat Hai before you even reach the water.
The Hai Phong to Cat Ba speedboat takes around an hour, and I like that most of the journey feels very straightforward. You get on in Hai Phong, enjoy the ride across, and arrive much closer to Cat Ba Town.
It’s the route I’d choose if I had a suitcase or backpack and just wanted to get to the island without adding extra transfers.
Book Cat Ba speedboat tickets →
Hai Phong to Cat Ba by cable car
The Cat Hai to Phu Long cable car is a much more scenic way to make the crossing. You’re up above the water with big views over the coast, so it feels more like part of the trip than just another transfer.
I’d choose this one if I wasn’t in a rush and wanted to make the journey a little more memorable. Just keep in mind that Phu Long is on the northern side of Cat Ba, so you’ll still need transport onwards to Cat Ba Town.
Book your Cat Ba cable car ticket →
Hai Phong to Cat Ba by ferry
The Dong Bai ferry is the better option if you’re taking your own motorbike or car to Cat Ba. It crosses from Cat Hai Island to Cai Vieng on Cat Ba Island and carries vehicles as well as passengers.
The one thing worth knowing is that Cai Vieng isn’t anywhere near central Cat Ba Town. Once you roll off the ferry, you’ve still got a drive across the island ahead of you.
I actually like this route if you’ve got your own wheels because the drive through Cat Ba is part of the fun. Once you’re across, you can carry on at your own pace and stop wherever you fancy.
Getting from Hai Phong Railway Station to Cat Ba
If you’re arriving by train from Hanoi, this route works really nicely because Hai Phong Railway Station is right in the city.
From there, I’d head towards Ben Binh and take the direct speedboat. It’s a much easier connection than traveling farther out towards Dong Bai, especially when you’ve just got off the train with your luggage.
If you’re still sorting out the first part of the journey, my Hanoi to Hai Phong guide covers that route in more detail.
Getting from Cat Bi Airport to Cat Ba
Flying into Cat Bi International Airport is another easy way to start a Cat Ba trip. From the airport, you can head into central Hai Phong for the speedboat or travel towards Cat Hai for the ferry or cable car.
With luggage, I’d keep things as easy as possible and aim for the Ben Binh speedboat if the timing works. It means fewer changes and a much simpler arrival on the island.
Book transfer from Cat Bi to Cat Ba →
Where to stay on Cat Ba Island
I’ve stayed at Cat Ba Oasis Bungalows before and really liked the relaxed feel there. The pool is lovely after a day out exploring, and you’re still in a handy spot for Cat Ba Town.
LePont Cat Ba Bungalow is another one I’ve enjoyed, especially for the sea views. I’d choose it if you want somewhere that feels a little quieter while still being close enough to head into town easily.
Compare hotels on Cat Ba Island →
What to do after you arrive
Once you’re on the island, there’s plenty to keep you busy. My best things to do in Cat Ba guide covers the places I’d start with, including beaches, viewpoints and some lovely spots away from town.
I’d also make time for Lan Ha Bay. Kayaking between the limestone islands is one of my favorite Cat Ba experiences, and a day cruise is an easy way to see much more of the bay.
Check Lan Ha Bay cruise availability →
And if you want a break from the water, Cat Ba National Park is well worth adding to your plans. I love how quickly Cat Ba changes from busy waterfront to green forest once you start exploring inland.
