
Choosing the Right Transfer for Your Cruise
Planning a Lan Ha Bay cruise? One of the most important decisions you’ll make is how to get from Hanoi to the cruise departure pier — usually Got Pier in Hai Phong.
Two of the most popular options are:
- 🚗 Private Car – Full flexibility and privacy
- 🚐 Limousine Minibus – Shared, but with premium comfort

If you’re asking:
- “Is it worth paying more for a private car?”
- “Will I be comfortable on a limousine ride?”
- “Which one is better if I’m with family?”
This guide will help you choose the best transfer option based on your group size, schedule, comfort level, and travel style.
📌 Related guide:
- How to get from Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay
- Lan Ha Bay Cruise Options 2025: Best Day & Overnight Cruises Compared

Private Car – Full Flexibility & Privacy
If you value door-to-door service, complete control over your departure time, and a quiet ride just for your group, a private car is the way to go.
Highlights:
- Fully private vehicle – No strangers onboard
- Flexible departure time – Leave when you want
- Hotel pickup/drop-off in Hanoi and Got Pier
✅ Ideal for families, small groups, or couples with early/late cruise schedules
👉 Have a look at:

Price Range:
- ~$85–105 USD per car (up to 4 passengers)
- Optional: Larger vehicles (SUV or 7-seat van) available for extra cost
Duration:
- ~2.5–3 hours via expressways CT08 or CT04
✅ Best for:
- Families with kids or elderly
- Cruise guests with early/late departure times
- Travelers with lots of luggage
- Business travelers or luxury cruise customers
📌 Related guides you might find helpful:
- Lan Ha Bay cruise from Hanoi – How to Plan Your Trip Smoothly
- Lan Ha Bay Day Cruise – Is It Worth It?
- Overnight Lan Ha Bay cruises – Are they worth the splurge?

Limousine Minibus – Shared Yet Comfortable
Not your average minivan. Limousine vans in Vietnam are modern, sleek 9-seat vehicles designed for comfort and affordability.
They are perfect for travelers who want more space than a standard shuttle — but don’t need a full private transfer.
Highlights:
- Reclining leather seats, Wi-Fi, USB ports
- Shared ride, but fewer passengers (7–9)
- Departs from fixed locations in Hanoi
- Some providers include hotel pickup for extra fee
Price Range:
- ~$18–25 USD per person (one-way)
Duration:
- ~2.5–3 hours (may include brief stop or passenger pickups)

Top Providers:
- Cuong Phat Limousine
- Phuc Xuyên Limousine bus
- Cat Ba Express Bus
- Luxury Van Limousine
- Good Morning Cat Ba (includes speedboat if staying on Cat Ba Island)
✅ Best For:
- Solo travelers or couples
- Cruise guests with fixed itineraries
- Travelers on a mid-range budget
📌 Explore more
- Top Lan Ha Bay Cruises for Solo Travelers (2025 Update)
- Budget Lan Ha Bay Cruises – Affordable Options That Deliver

Comparison Table – At a Glance
| Feature | Private Car | Limousine Minivan |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
👉 Explore more:
- Hanoi to Ha Long Bay Distance & Transfer Options
- Lan Ha Bay Cruise Itinerary (1–3 Days) for Every Traveler

Which one should you choose?
Choose a Private Car if…
- You’re traveling with 3+ people
- You want total flexibility (early/late pickup)
- You have cruise check-in at odd hours
- You prefer not to wait for other passengers
Have a look at:

Choose a Limousine Minibus if…
- You’re traveling solo or as a couple
- You want comfort on a budget
- You’re okay with fixed departure times
- You don’t have a lot of luggage
📌 Explore more: Luxury Lan Ha Bay Cruises – Top Picks & What to Expect

FAQs – Private Transfer to Lan Ha Bay
Is private car safer than limousine?
- Yes — because you control the stops, driver, and time. Both options are safe, but private cars offer more personalized comfort.
Can I book same-day?
- Limousine: Yes, if seats are available
- Private car: Better to book 24 hours in advance
📞 Book directly via What’s App: +84 974 805 797 | +84 915 815 535
Can I ask the driver to wait or stop along the way?
- Only for private car. Limousine vans follow fixed schedules and cannot detour.
What about airport pickup for cruise transfer?
- Yes — private cars can pick you up from Noi Bai Airport and drive directly to Got Pier.
📌 Read more: Ha Long Bay to Hanoi Airport: Transport Guide
Still unsure which transfer is best for your cruise?
Let us help you book the right option — based on your cruise time, number of guests, and travel preferences.
📲 What’s App / Hotline (24/7): +84 974 805 797 | +84 915 815 535
📧 Email: info@hanoiexploretravel.com
👉 Related Useful Post: