We wanted to see the amazing Halong Bay without spending too much money. So we spoke to some locals when were in Sa Pa and they recommended to stay in Cat Ba! This saved us money not having to do an expensive cruise to see Halong Bay.
But wait, there’s more to this paradise! Halong Bay is incredible, no doubt, but let’s not overlook Cat Ba Island. It’s like the cool cousin that gives you access to both Ha Long Bay and the equally stunning, less known Lan Ha Bay.
And guess what? Cat Ba Island is a total adventure playground. Hop on a motorbike to uncover hidden beaches, dive into the town’s nightlife and delicious eats, and take a hike in the National Park for incredible views of the island.
How to get to Cat Ba
By Motorbike or Car:
If you’ve chosen to rent or purchase a motorbike for your Vietnam exploration (or you are driving a car), getting to Cat Ba Island is a smooth journey. Having your own transportation on the island is quite practical.
Commence your adventure at Tuan Chau Harbour, the entry point to the island. A brief ferry ride will land you on the island’s northern side. From there, enjoy the scenic route, traveling the length of the island to reach the bustling city centre on the southern side.
Please be aware that there might be additional charges for bringing a motorbike or vehicle on the ferry.
By Transportation Agency:
For travelers on a budget making their way to Cat Ba Islands from Hanoi, the typical route includes a series of transportation legs: a bus ride, a short ferry journey, and another bus segment.
Yet, after careful deliberation and extensive research, we stumbled upon a game-changer. Choosing a transportation agency emerged as the most economical and streamlined approach to reach Cat Ba Island in Vietnam. Securing all three components (bus/ferry/bus) through a single agency, which oversees the entire transportation process, not only resulted in a better deal but also significantly reduced our travel time.
From Hanoi: It cost us around 12 USD per person including the ferry ride and drop off at the hotel. An air-conditioned bus picks you up from your Hanoi accommodation, driving two hours to the Hai Phong coastline. An 8-minute ferry ride later, another bus on Cat Ba Island takes you to your town hotel in under 40 minutes. English-speaking staff ensures a comfortable experience. Great value
From Ninh Binh: We heard from fellow travellers that cost somewhere around 13 USD including the ferry ride.
What to do in Cat Ba
Day Tour to Halong Bay
The highlight of our visit was our day tour to Halong Bay. Choosing Cat Ba as our base proved strategic as we saved money on accommodation while still indulging in the iconic Halong Bay experience.
The day tour included a boat ride through scenic landscapes, where limestone karsts met the emerald waters.
The real thrill came with kayaking around Halong Bay, exploring secluded areas where few boats stop. We found ourselves the only group in these tranquil waters, making it an intimate and unforgettable experience.
We also stopped at a floating fishing village, which added a touch of authenticity, offering insights into the local way of life. Our tour guide grew up in a fishing village and he even showed us the boat where his dad lives, still working as a fisherman.
Numerous full-day and overnight tours of Halong Bay, Cat Ba and Lan Ha Bay are available. You can book from a tour operating desk in the city, or alternatively book online using the link below.
It cost around $27 USD per person.
Floating Fishing Village
The fishing village left a profound impact on us—fascinating to witness in person (imagine the daily life on a floating house!) yet tinged with a sense of sadness given the current state of the fishing industry. It serves as a survival strategy for local fishermen to uphold their ancestral profession under radically different circumstances.
Unable to catch large fish anymore, they’ve transformed these floating villages into fish farms. Acquiring the smaller fish caught by local fishermen, whether nearby or distant, they process them into a chum-like paste using a massive meat grinder. This paste becomes the sustenance for the fish confined in enclosed spaces. These fish can endure these conditions for years before reaching a size deemed suitable for sale, often to Chinese suppliers.
Coastal Boardwalk
Our journey kicked off with a stroll along the coastal boardwalk, offering panoramic views of the bay. It set the perfect tone for our exploration.
National Park
Nature enthusiasts can explore the lush greenery and diverse wildlife, with trekking options for all skill levels.
Cannon Fort
History buffs will appreciate the Cannon Fort, offering not just historical insights but also panoramic views of the island.
Check out the Nightlife
Cat Ba city offers a lot of restaurants, bars, and even nightclubs. With many backpackers choosing to go to this island instead of Halong Bay, there is always a vibe in town at night. And if you like seafood, you have come to the right place as there are many restaurants offer fresh seafood dishes sourced from the bay.
Beaches and Caves
Cat Ba boasts pristine beaches, as well as intriguing caves like Hospital Cave.
Where to stay in Cat Ba
We recommend staying in the city, there are plenty of options available for an affordable rate, around $20 per night for a private hotel room. Here you also have walking distance to restaurants, bars, tour operators, beaches, and the coastal boardwalk.
Conclusion
Our Cat Ba adventure left us not only with incredible memories but also a sense of accomplishment in making the most of our budget. From the coastal boardwalk to the thrills of Halong Bay, and the diverse activities on the island, this proved to be a versatile destination. For those seeking an affordable yet enriching escape, Cat Ba, is undoubtedly a must-visit.
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