Bai Tu Long Bay is gradually becoming a favorite destination for travelers seeking tranquility and pristine natural beauty. However, many visitors still wonder how to reach this hidden gem most conveniently.
Let Viet Sails Boutique Cruises guide you through the most detailed and easy-to-understand transportation options to Bai Tu Long Bay, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey from the very first step.
Bai Tu Long Bay is located to the northeast of Ha Long Bay, within Quang Ninh Province. From a geographical perspective, Bai Tu Long can be considered a natural extension of Ha Long Bay, featuring an expansive network of limestone islands, pristine beaches, and hidden caves spread across a vast area.
Beyond its characteristic seascapes of northern Vietnam, this destination stands out for its low tourism density, well-preserved natural environment, and unhurried pace of life. These qualities have made the bay increasingly appealing to international travelers and those who value sustainable and responsible tourism.
Its location, slightly removed from the bustling tourist center, is precisely what makes transportation to the Bay a key concern for visitors—yet it is also the very element that creates the bay’s distinctive charm and exclusivity.
Traveling by coach is the most popular and budget-friendly option for visitors departing from Hanoi. You can catch buses from Gia Lam or My Dinh Bus Station, with routes heading to Cam Pha or other destinations in Quang Ninh.
The journey takes just over 4 hours. Reputable operators include Nghia Anh Limousine, Van Don Xanh Limousine, and Duc Phuc, with departures every 5–15 minutes. Upon arrival in Quang Ninh, simply take a taxi to Hon Gai Port to board your cruise.
If you want a more comfortable journey, a limousine is the ideal choice. Limousines offer spacious seating, air conditioning, and door-to-door service. The travel time is approximately 3.5-4 hours. This option is suitable for families or groups of friends who want more privacy.
Driving yourself allows full flexibility in timing and itinerary. There are two main routes from Hanoi:
Route 1 – National Highway:
Follow National Highway 5 to Sai Dong Junction, then continue on National Highway 18 via Pha Lai – Chi Linh – Dong Trieu – Uong Bi – Ha Long – Hon Gai.
Distance: approximately 175 km | Travel time: around 4 hours.
Route 2 – Expressway (Recommended):
Take the Hanoi–Hai Phong–Ha Long Expressway, saving time with a total journey of about 3 hours. Toll fees apply. Upon arrival in Ha Long, continue on National Highway 18, cross Bai Chay Bridge, and head to Hon Gai Port.
For travelers coming from distant regions or abroad, flying is the fastest option. Book a flight to Van Don International Airport, then transfer by taxi or shuttle bus to Hon Gai Port or Cai Rong Port.
Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways all operate flights to Van Don.
Travel time from the airport to the port is approximately 30–45 minutes.
Flying is the most efficient option for travelers from southern Vietnam. There are two main choices:
Option 1: Fly from Ho Chi Minh City to Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi), then continue to Quang Ninh by coach, limousine, or private car as described above.
Option 2: Fly directly from Ho Chi Minh City to Van Don International Airport, then take a taxi or shuttle to the port. This is the fastest and most convenient option.
From Hai Phong, the easiest way is to travel from Lac Long Bus Station or Ben Binh Terminal to Bai Chay Bus Station. Buses depart every 15 minutes, with a total journey time of approximately 1.5 hours.
Upon arrival in Ha Long City, take a taxi to Hon Gai Port to board your cruise.
Once in Quang Ninh, travelers will depart from one of two main ports:
Hon Gai Port:
Most Bai Tu Long Bay cruises depart from Hon Gai Passenger Port, located in the northeastern area of Ha Long City. From the city center, cross Bai Chay Bridge, follow National Highway 18, then turn onto Tran Hung Dao and Le Thanh Tong streets. The port is just a 10-minute drive from downtown.
Cai Rong Port (Van Don):
Some tours depart from Cai Rong Port, especially those exploring deeper areas of Bai Tu Long Bay and islands such as Quan Lan and Minh Chau.
Most Bai Tu Long Bay cruise tours include round-trip transportation from Hanoi. When booking with Viet Sails Boutique Cruises, guests enjoy complimentary pick-up from Hanoi’s Old Quarter and a comfortable transfer directly to the port.
The ideal months are February to May and October to November, when the weather is pleasant, seas are calm, and rainfall is minimal. Avoid July to September due to the possibility of storms.
Reserve your cruise at least 1–2 weeks ahead to secure the best itinerary and pricing. All-inclusive tours with transportation, meals, and guides offer the most convenience.
Bring personal identification, light and breathable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, and motion sickness medication if needed. In winter, pack a light jacket.
Always monitor weather forecasts before departure. Cruises may be canceled due to safety regulations issued by the Bay Management Authority.
Compare prices and services carefully. Avoid choosing solely based on low cost—service quality and safety should always be top priorities.
Reaching Bai Tu Long Bay is simple with proper preparation and reliable information. With a variety of transportation options and flexible routes, travelers can easily choose the most suitable way based on their budget and preferences. Selecting a reputable cruise operator ensures a safe, seamless, and memorable journey.
For travelers seeking a calmer and more authentic cave experience, Viet Sail Boutique Cruise offers journeys through Bai Tu Long Bay, where nature, silence, and hidden caves still remain untouched.
VIET SAILS CRUISES – ASIA PEARLS., JSC
Phone number: +84 906 272 467 | +84 908 828 166 (WhatsApp)
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