How to get to Cat Ba Island from Hanoi
Getting to Cat Ba Island from Hanoi is a popular journey for tourists who want to explore the beauty of Northern Vietnam. Cat Ba Island is the largest island in Lan Ha Bay, and it offers a variety of activities such as hiking, kayaking, and beach hopping. The journey from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island is relatively easy, and there are several options available depending on your budget and preferences.
The most common way to get to Cat Ba Island from Hanoi is by taking a combination of bus and ferry. The journey usually takes around 3-4 hours, depending on the traffic and the ferry schedule. The first step is to take a bus from Hanoi to Hai Phong city, which is about 120 km away from Hanoi. There are several bus companies operating between Hanoi and Hai Phong, and the journey usually takes around 2-3 hours. Some of the popular bus companies include Hoang Long, Kumho, and Hai Au.
Once you arrive in Hai Phong, you need to take a ferry from the Dinh Vu Port to Cat Ba Island. There are two types of ferries available: the high-speed ferry and the traditional ferry. The high-speed ferry is faster and more expensive, while the traditional ferry is slower but cheaper. The ferry ride usually takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the weather and the ferry schedule.
Another option to get to Cat Ba Island from Hanoi is by taking a tourist bus transfer. This option is more expensive, but it offers more convenience and comfort. You can book a bus transfer from your hotel in Hanoi, and the driver will pick you up and drop you off directly at your hotel in Cat Ba Island. The journey usually takes around 3-3,5 hours, depending on the traffic and the ferry or speedboat schedule. Some of the popular private transfer companies include Good Morning Cat Ba, Cat Ba Transfer.
If you are on a tight budget, you can also take a local bus from Hanoi to Hai Phong and then take a local ferry from the Ben Binh Port to Cat Ba Island. This option is the cheapest, but it can be time-consuming and uncomfortable. The local bus and ferry are usually crowded and may not be very comfortable for long journeys.
Overall, getting to Cat Ba Island from Hanoi is relatively easy, and there are several options available depending on your budget and preferences. The bus and ferry combination is the most common and affordable option, while the private transfer offers more convenience and comfort. Regardless of which option you choose, the journey to Cat Ba Island is definitely worth it, as you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the limestone cliffs and the crystal-clear waters of Lan Ha Bay.
Upon arriving at Cat Ba Island, you will be greeted by stunning natural scenery and a laid-back atmosphere. The island is a perfect destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in nature. There are many activities to do on the island, such as hiking in the Cat Ba National Park, exploring the Lan Ha Bay by kayak or boat, visiting the Monkey Island, and enjoying the local seafood cuisine.
One of the main attractions on Cat Ba Island is the Cat Ba National Park. The park covers an area of 15,000 hectares and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. There are several hiking trails in the park, ranging from easy to challenging, that offer stunning views of the island’s landscape. One of the popular trails is the Ngu Lam Peak Trail, which takes around 4 hours to complete and offers panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea.
Another popular activity on Cat Ba Island is exploring the Lan Ha Bay tour by kayak or boat. Lan Ha Bay is a hidden gem in the Ha Long Bay area, and it offers pristine beaches, limestone cliffs, and crystal-clear waters. You can rent a kayak or book a boat tour to explore the bay, visit the floating villages, and enjoy the stunning scenery. The beaches on the bay, such as Cat Co Beach and Tung Thu Beach, are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
If you want to experience the local culture, you can visit the Monkey Island, which is home to over 20 species of monkeys. The island is accessible by boat, and you can observe the monkeys in their natural habitat, feed them, and take photos with them.
Finally, Cat Ba Island is known for its fresh seafood cuisine, which is a must-try when visiting the island. There are many seafood restaurants and markets on the island that offer a wide range of dishes, such as grilled squid, steamed clams, and seafood hotpot. The seafood is caught fresh from the surrounding waters, and it is cooked with local herbs and spices, creating a unique and delicious taste.
In conclusion, getting to Cat Ba Island from Hanoi is a relatively easy journey, and there are several options available depending on your budget and preferences. Once you arrive on the island, you will be rewarded with stunning natural scenery, a laid-back atmosphere, and a variety of activities to do. Whether you want to hike in the Cat Ba National Park, explore the Lan Ha Bay by kayak or boat, visit the Monkey Island, or enjoy the local seafood cuisine, Cat Ba Island has something to offer for everyone.
