How to get to Cat Ba Island from Ninh Binh

How to travel from Ninh Binh to Cat Ba Island is simple, detailed, and convenient is shared in this article to help visitors have a more perfect trip.

Overview of traveling from Ninh Binh to Cat Ba Island

Distance and Duration

The journey from Ninh Binh to Cat Ba Island spans about 150 kilometers, taking roughly 5 to 7 hours, including bus rides and ferry transfers.

This distance might seem manageable, but planning your trip carefully is essential to ensure a smooth experience.

Traffic conditions during peak tourist seasons can greatly impact travel times. Choosing a reliable transportation service can help reduce the stress of delays.

Cat Ba Island way

Best Time to Visit

When planning your journey to Cat Ba Island from Ninh Binh, timing can significantly impact your experience.

The best time to visit is generally between September and April, when the weather is more temperate and pleasant for outdoor activities.

During this period, you can enjoy the stunning natural landscapes without the sweltering heat and humidity characteristic of the summer months.

However, do keep in mind that traveling during the peak season may result in crowded tourist spots.

Planning your visit during the shoulder seasons can help you avoid crowds while still enjoying favorable weather conditions.

Lan Ha Bay - Cat Ba

Recommend tour by Cat Ba Express

  1. Lan Ha Bay day tour from Cat Ba Island
  2. Lan Ha Bay day tour from Hanoi

Transportation Options from Ninh Binh to Cat Ba Island

Transportation OptionDurationCost Estimate
Bus Services4-6 hours$10 - $15
Private Transfers3-4 hours$100 - $120

Option 1: from Ninh Binh to Cat Ba Island by bus

Traveling from Ninh Binh to Cat Ba Island by bus is one of the most convenient and cost-effective options.

Multiple bus companies serve this route, usually offering comfortable seating and air conditioning. The trip generally lasts 4-6 hours, depending on traffic.

One major advantage of using a bus service is the direct connection to ferry terminals, which makes the transition from land to sea seamless.

However, travelers should be aware that during peak season, buses can get fully booked quickly, so it's advisable to reserve tickets in advance.

Taking the bus from Ninh Binh costs around 300,000 VND and takes 4.5 - 6 hours.

How to book a bus

Book online with the booking box on this website. Click to book (recommend website) or Cat Ba Express bus here.

Read more:

  1. How to get to Cat Ba Island from Hanoi
  2. How to get to Cat Ba island from Hai Phong
  3. How to get to Ninh Binh from Cat Ba Island
  4. How to get to Cat Ba island from Ha Giang
Ninh Binh to Cat Ba bus

Timetable Ninh Binh to Cat Ba Island bus

Free pickup address Point in Ninh Binh: We only pick up at the point Address listed below. Please be before 20 minutes departure time.

  • Đuc Tuan restaurant or Tam Coc boat station.
  • Hoa Lu Hotel in Ninh Binh City center.

Pickup time: 7h30, 9h00, 14h00

Bus Ninh Binh to Cat Ba Island

Option 2: Private Transfers from Ninh Binh to Cat Ba Island

If comfort and convenience are your top priorities, consider using private transfers.

This option allows you to travel directly from Ninh Binh to Cat Ba Island without the hassle of public transport schedules.

Private car services can be arranged to pick you up at your location and drop you off right at the ferry terminal, ensuring a smooth transition.

While this option tends to be more expensive, it offers flexibility in departure times and can be a great choice for families or groups traveling together.

Book a private car, contact Mr Hien at +84976951999 (Zalo/ WhatsApp).

4-seat car

Option 3: Go by Motorbike

Riding a motorbike is a great choice for adventure seekers. The route from Ninh Binh to Cat Ba Island is now more accessible, though it may still pose challenges for tourists unfamiliar with Vietnamese traffic.

You can look at Google Maps to better understand the route you will go through → here.

Motorbike in Cat Ba Island

We hope this article is useful and wish you a perfect trip.

Read more →

  1. → Cat Ba Island, Vietnam - an unforgettable holiday
  2. → Things to do in Lan Ha Bay
  3. → Lan Ha Bay – the forgotten paradise