How to get to Ninh Binh from Cat Ba Island

Cat Ba to Ninh Binh is a common need of tourists when coming to Cat Ba island because Ninh Binh is one of the destinations that tourists must visit in Northern Vietnam.

Ninh Binh has always been famous for the splendors of Tam Coc, Trang An Hoa Lu, Van Long, Cuc Phuong, especially after the release of "Kong Island".

How to get to Ninh Binh from Cat Ba Island

In the article, we will mention the option of going directly and transiting from Hai Phong city using transport such as buses, private cars, speedboats, ferry.

Book a bus from Hanoi to Cat Ba and tour Lan Ha Bay

1. Hanoi to Cat Ba
2. Cat Ba to Hanoi
3. Lan Ha Bay day tour

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

More information Bus from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh and Bus Ninh Binh to Cat Ba Island.

• Departure: Daily guarantee.
• Time from Cat Ba: 08:00 Am from Cat Ba Island to Ninh Binh.
• Time from Ninh Binh: 13:30 Pm from Ninh Binh to Cat Ba.
• Duration: 4,30 – 5:00 hours.
• Price: 15 USD/person/trip.

Hotline/ Whatsapp: +84 84 824 4999, Email: info@catbaexpress.com.

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

Read more:

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

Option 2: Get from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh and transit in Hai Phong city

From Cat Ba to Ben Binh Pier (mainland of Hai Phong)

Book a speed boat or bus ticket from Cat Ba Town to Ben Binh in Hai Phong City Center. Office No. 223, 1/4 Street, Cat Ba Town, Hai Phong. → Binh Pier Map.

Timeline of Cat Ba Island Speedboat to Binh Pier (Hai Phong City)

60 mins. Price: ~250,000 VND.

The speedboat will temporarily stop operating from September to April next year.

*Note:

• Children under 5 accompanied by parents travel free of charge.
• For a group of 16 people or more, a tour guide can travel free of charge.
• Tax is yet included in the price above.

Timeline of bus Cat Ba Island to Hai Phong

Bus price

From Hai Phong city to Ninh Binh

You must go to Niem Nghia Bus Station to find the bus to Ninh Binh City. A local taxi will take you from 50.000 - 70.000 VND to the bus station.

Hoang Long is one of the most reputative companies running Ninh Binh bus service. Travel by bus with Hoang Long will cost around 170,000 VND.

The travel time is about 3 hours. There are 3 buses every day, from 3:00 PM to midnight.

Public transportation to Ninh Binh is inexpensive, but trips can be inconvenient due to numerous stops for picking up and dropping off passengers.

The price can also be jacked up for foreigners and on holidays.

Option 3: Get to Ninh Binh from Cat Ba Island by Taxi & Car

Submit your request to any Cat Ba hotel or travel agent. Taxi Cat Ba and Cat Ba Express are recommended, costing $100 to $150 per car based on passengers.

If you take a taxi, you can go at any time, with no middle stops, and it is relatively faster than any other option.

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

FAQs about Traveling from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh

1. How long does it take to travel from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh?

The journey from Cat Ba Island to Ninh Binh usually takes around 4.5 to 5 hours by direct bus or a combination of bus and ferry. Private car transfer is slightly faster, depending on the weather and ferry schedule.

2. What is the best way to get to Ninh Binh from Cat Ba Island?

The most convenient option is to take a direct bus from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh offered by reliable companies like Cat Ba Express. If you prefer flexibility, a private car or taxi can take you door-to-door without transfers.

3. Are there direct buses from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh?

Yes, there are daily direct buses that connect Cat Ba Island and Ninh Binh. The most common departure is at 8:00 AM from Cat Ba and 1:30 PM from Ninh Binh, taking around five hours per trip.

4. Can I travel from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh via Hai Phong?

Absolutely. You can take a speedboat from Cat Ba to Hai Phong (Binh Pier) and then continue by bus to Ninh Binh. This route is ideal if you want to explore Hai Phong City before heading south.

5. How much does it cost to travel from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh?

The price depends on the transport type:

• Bus: Around 15 USD per person
• Speedboat + Bus combo: From 250,000 VND + 150,000 VND
• Private car/taxi: 100 – 150 USD per trip
  Budget travelers often prefer the bus, while families choose the private car for comfort.

6. Is there a ferry from Cat Ba Island to Ninh Binh directly?

No, there is no direct ferry from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh. Travelers must use a ferry or speedboat from Cat Ba to the mainland (Hai Phong) and then continue by bus or car to Ninh Binh.

7. When is the best time to travel from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh?

The best months are March to May and September to November, when both Cat Ba and Ninh Binh enjoy mild weather, calm seas, and clear skies—perfect for sightseeing and photography.

8. Can I book Cat Ba to Ninh Binh tickets online?

Yes. You can book tickets directly online via reliable operators like Cat Ba Express, or contact local agents and hotels on Cat Ba Island. Booking ahead ensures you get your preferred departure time, especially in peak season.

9. Are there any group or family discounts for Cat Ba to Ninh Binh transfers?

Yes. Many transport providers offer group discounts for 5 or more passengers. Some also include free seats for tour guides or children under 5, so it’s worth asking when booking.

10. What should I prepare for the trip from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh?

Bring light luggage, drinking water, and motion sickness tablets if needed. The route includes both land and sea segments, so having a jacket or raincoat handy is also smart, especially during the rainy months.

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