Motorbike Ferry to Cat Ba: How to Bring Your Bike to the Island

Introduction: Travel to Cat Ba with Your Motorbike? Yes, You Can

If you're planning to visit Cat Ba Island, you’ve probably looked at buses, limos, or tourist boats leaving Hanoi or Hai Phong. But what many travelers don’t realize is that you can actually ride your motorbike to Cat Ba , and it might just be the most flexible and scenic way to get there.

Instead of locking a group tour or leaving your bike behind on the mainland, you can roll up to the ferry terminal in Hai Phong, buy a cheap ticket, and board a public ferry that carries motorbikes across to the island. It’s not a private yacht, and it's not a tourist cruise. It’s the same ferry locals use every day to bring food, goods, and yes, motorbikes across the water.

Whether you’re road-tripping Vietnam or wrapping up an epic loop Ha Giang or Ninh Binh, this is your complete guide to taking the motorbike ferry to Cat Ba : how it works, what it costs, and what to expect.

Where to Catch the Ferry with Your Motorbike

The ferry departs Bến Gót Terminal in Hai Phong City, about 2.5 to 3 hours Hanoi. You can easily find it on Google Maps by searching “Ben Got Ferry.”

The route there is smooth and simple, especially if you're used to riding Vietnam’s highways. At the terminal, staff will guide you where to wait and how to board.

How the Motorbike Ferry Works

Once you arrive, you’ll queue up with other motorbikes, cars, and pedestrians. When the ferry arrives, you ride up the ramp and park your bike on the lower level. Ferries are large, stable, and used by locals daily, so the process is safe and organized.

No advance booking is required. Just show up, pay, and ride on.

Ticket Price and Travel Time

• Traveler (solo): 10,000 VND

• Motorbike: 45,000 VND

• Car:  190,000 VND

• Trip duration: 20 to 30 minutes across the bay

• Payment: Cash only at the gate

There are multiple ferries throughout the day, especially in high season. Expect wait times of 15 to 45 minutes depending on the season and time of day.

Where You Arrive and What Happens Next

The ferry drops you at Cái Viềng Port, located on the northern end of Cat Ba Island. there, it’s a 20–30 minute motorbike ride south to Cat Ba Town, the island’s main base for accommodation, food, and beaches.

This road is scenic and enjoyable, passing through lush hills and coastal views. It’s a great start to your island experience.

Tips for Taking the Motorbike Ferry to Cat Ba

• Arrive early during weekends or holidays, especially in summer

• Bring cash, ideally small bills

• Fuel up before boarding, although gas stations are available on the island

• Ferry schedules may shift during stormy weather or Tet holiday periods

• Keep your helmet and valuables with you during the crossing

Why Travel This Way?

If you’re already on a motorbike journey through Vietnam, there’s no better way to reach Cat Ba. It’s:

• Flexible – no schedules or buses to coordinate

• Scenic – both the ferry and ride to town offer amazing views

• Affordable – under 60,000 VND for both rider and bike

• Freedom-friendly – no need to rent again after arriving

Bringing your own bike also lets you explore remote parts of the island like Cat Ba National Park, Trung Trang Cave, or quiet beaches that tours don’t cover.

Where to Stay After the Ride

Once you arrive in Cat Ba Town, you’ll want a hotel that’s central, motorbike-friendly, and close to the action. Quiri Hotel Cat Ba is a top pick for riders. You’ll get:

• Free motorbike parking

• Clean, stylish rooms with AC

• Onsite pub and restaurant

• Walking distance to bars, beaches, and the pier

Address: 135 Tung Dinh, Cat Ba Island, Hai Phong City

Hotline: (+84) 904060997

Email: quirihotelcatba@gmail.com

Whether you’re arriving with your own bike or renting one on the island, Quiri Hotel Cat Ba is the perfect base for your two-wheeled island adventure.