Cat Ba by car: Dong Bai ferry, cable car and a 2-day plan

Cat Ba by car: Dong Bai ferry or cable car, ferry times and a 2-day plan. Cat Ba belongs to Cat Hai special zone, Hai Phong city (merged from Hai Phong and Hai Duong in 2025). From Hanoi, cars take the Hanoi – Hai Phong expressway and the Tan Vu – Lach Huyen bridge to Cat Hai island before crossing to Cat Ba.

Getting onto the island

• Dong Bai – Cai Vieng ferry: carries cars. From 1 September to 31 December 2026 the terminal runs 5am – 6pm, with the last sailing around 5:30pm, sometimes later depending on weather. Cars under 9 seats pay about 190,000 VND per crossing (listed price, subject to change).
• Cat Hai – Phu Long cable car: passengers only; leave the car in the car park and use local transport on the island. See car to the Cat Hai cable car station.
• From Cai Vieng pier it is about 25 km by coastal road to Cat Ba town.

When to go, up to Tết 2027

From October it is low season: quieter roads and ferries than summer, but the sea cools and swimming is not pleasant from December. Boat and kayak trips in Lan Ha Bay depend on the weather. Close to Tết, weekend ferries can be busy, so set off early.

What to do in 2 days

• Lan Ha Bay by boat from Beo pier.
• Cat Ba National Park and its viewpoints.
• Cannon Fort overlooking the town and bay.
• The Cat Co beaches near town.

Tips

• Check the ferry timetable before you go; it changes by season.
• Cat Ba's coastal road has slopes and bends; drivers slow down in the rain.
• Ask seafood prices before ordering by weight.

Choosing a vehicle

Families: a 7-seater. Company groups: a 16-seater or 29-seater; ferry fees for coaches depend on seat count. From Hanoi: Hanoi to Hai Phong private car; flying into Cat Bi: Cat Bi airport transfers.

For your Cat Ba trip, every quote is 10% off. With self-drive, fuel and tolls are on you, and petrol or diesel is your choice. Contracts are signed by both parties.

FAQ

Can cars use the cable car to Cat Ba?

No. The cable car carries passengers only; cars cross on the Dong Bai – Cai Vieng ferry.

Is the ferry fee included in chauffeur prices?

Chauffeur prices include fuel and tolls; ask about the ferry fee when you get your quote.

Before driving to Cat Ba

Check the ferry times the day before, especially in peak season, and arrive early. Keep cash for tickets and parking.

For Lan Ha Bay boats, book a tour and agree the pickup point.

See Hanoi to Ha Long and Ha Long and Yen Tu guide.

Quick answers

Is there a cable car option? Yes, as described above.

How many days? Two days is a good pace.