Welcome to Halong Bay International Cruise Port, a gateway to one of the world’s most breathtaking destinations. Whether you’re arriving by cruise or planning to explore the bay’s stunning islands, this guide provides everything you need to know about this premier port in Vietnam. Read on to discover cruise services, essential tips, and the best experiences for international visitors in 2024.
Overview of Halong Bay and Its Cruise Ports
Nestled in the Gulf of Tonkin, Ha Long Bay – a UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to over 2,000 limestone karsts and emerald waters. It is a top-rated cruise destination, attracting thousands of international visitors each year. There are two primary international cruise ports in the area:
- Halong International Cruise Port (Sun Port) – A state-of-the-art terminal designed exclusively for international cruise passengers.
- Cai Lan International Cruise Port – A commercial deep-water port that occasionally accommodates large cruise liners.
Both of these ports are equipped to handle large international vessels, offering a gateway for visitors arriving to explore the region’s natural wonders, including Ha Long Bay itself and the nearby vibrant capital, Hanoi. Below is a detailed breakdown of each port.
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Key International Cruise Ports in Halong Bay
Halong International Cruise Port (Sun Port)
- Location: No.9 Halong Road, Bai Chay Ward, Halong City
- Best for: Luxury cruises, direct access to Halong Bay
- Capacity: Handles up to 2,000 passengers at a time
Halong International Cruise Port, also known as Sun Port, is the newest addition to Ha Long Bay’s cruise infrastructure and located near the Sun World Ha Long Complex. As the first dedicated international cruise port in Vietnam, Sun International Cruise Port provides modern, world-class facilities, including:
- Spacious passenger lounge with free Wi-Fi and refreshments
- Shuttle buses to hotels and attractions
- Currency exchange and baggage handling services
- VIP services and exclusive cruise experiences
- 24/7 security surveillance and multilingual staff assistance
>>> Have a look at: Map of Halong Bay: Top 10 Destinations to satisfy your wanderlust
Cai Lan International Cruise Port
- Location: No.1, Cai Lan Street, Bai Chay Ward, Halong City, Quang Ninh Province
- Best for: Large cruise liners with deep-sea docking requirements
- Capacity: Handles large vessels up to 80,000 DWT
While primarily a commercial port, Cai Lan occasionally serves as an entry point for international cruises. From here, visitors can explore lesser-known gems like:
- Thien Cung Cave – A mesmerizing cave with impressive stalactites and stalagmites
- Sung Sot Cave – The largest and most famous cave in Halong Bay
- Cua Van Floating Village – One of the oldest fishing villages in the bay
Domestic Cruise Ports in Halong bay
In addition to international cruise ports, Ha Long Bay is also home to three major domestic cruise ports catering to travelers exploring the bay:
Tuan Chau Harbor – The Largest Halong Cruise Port
- Location: Ngoc Chau, Tuan Chau, Halong, Quang Ninh
- Best for: Day cruises & overnight cruises
- Facilities: Two separate terminals for different cruise types
Located on Tuan Chau Island, this is the largest artificial cruise port in Halong Bay, offering a European-style marina and modern facilities. It is a key departure point for both day and overnight cruises.
Hon Gai Pier – The Oldest Halong Cruise Port
- Location: Bai Chay Ward, Halong City, Quang Ninh Province
- Best for: Cruises to Bai Tu Long Bay & remote islands
Hon Gai Pier, also known as Vinashin Harbor, is the main gateway for Bai Tu Long Bay cruises, offering access to Quan Lan Island, Ngoc Vung Island, and stunning beaches.
Got Pier – Gateway to Lan Ha Bay & Cat Ba Island
- Location: Cat Hai, Hai Phong
- Best for: Cruises to Lan Ha Bay & Cat Ba Island
Got Pier is the primary departure point for Lan Ha Bay tours, providing access to Cat Ba Island, known for its rugged cliffs, caves, and pristine beaches.
How to get from Halong Bay Cruise Port to Hanoi
Many international visitors continue their journey to Hanoi after arriving at Halong Bay International Cruise Port. The distance between Halong Bay and Hanoi is roughly 150-180 kilometers, translating to a 2.5 to 3-hour drive, depending on traffic.
Here are the most convenient and efficient travel options:
Luxury Limousine Bus (Best for Value & Comfort)
- Time: ~3 hours
- Cost: $18 – $25 per person
- Best for: Couples, solo travelers, or those looking for a mix of comfort and affordability.
Luxury limousine buses offer spacious seats, free Wi-Fi, charging ports, and onboard refreshments. Most services include a hotel pickup/drop-off in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
Public Bus (Cheapest Option)
- Time: 3.5 – 4 hours
- Cost: $5 – $10 per ticket
- Best for: Budget travelers and backpackers.
Several public bus companies operate daily trips from Halong Bay to My Dinh or Giap Bat Bus Stations in Hanoi. However, this option can be crowded and lacks the comfort of private transfers.
Private Car or Taxi (Best for Comfort & Convenience)
- Time: ~2.5 hours
- Cost: $80 – $120 per car
- Best for: Families, groups, or travelers who prefer privacy and comfort.
Booking a private car with an English-speaking driver allows you to travel at your own pace. Some services offer luxury vehicles with Wi-Fi, bottled water, and airport transfers if you’re flying from Noi Bai International Airport.
Organized Tours or Shore Excursions (Best for Hassle-Free Travel)
- Time: Varies depending on the itinerary
- Cost: $50 – $150 per person (including activities and transportation)
- Best for: Tourists looking for an all-inclusive package.
Many cruise lines and tour operators offer day tours from Ha Long Bay to Hanoi. These tours typically include transportation, sightseeing, and meals, making them a great option for travelers who want a seamless experience.
Pro Tip: Book your transportation in advance, especially during peak season (November – April), to avoid price surges and availability issues.
>>> If you would like to have more information for each option! Contact us to get your own Itinerary: Hotline/What’s app number: + 84 974 805 797 or + 84 914 815 535
Top Things to Do Near Halong Bay Cruise Port
After arriving at Halong Bay International Cruise Port, you’re in the heart of one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking destinations. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss:
Halong Bay Day Tour Cruises – Explore the Majestic Bay
A Ha Long Bay day cruise is the best way to see the bay’s limestone karsts, hidden caves, and floating villages.
- Popular stops: Sung Sot Cave, Luon Cave (kayaking spot), Ti Top Island (viewpoint and beach).
- Best for: Nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers.
- Price: $35 – $70 per person (includes lunch, kayaking, and entrance fees).
>>> Get Free Your Itinerary – Hotline/What’s app: + 84 974 805 797
Explore Floating Villages – A Cultural Experience
Visit Cua Van Floating Village, where local fishermen live, work, and raise their families on the water. This is one of the last authentic fishing villages in Halong Bay.
- Activities: Kayaking, bamboo boat rides, traditional fishing villages
- Best for: Travelers interested in local culture and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Visit Cat Ba National Park – A Hidden Gem
Cat Ba Island is an ecotourism paradise with hiking trails, stunning viewpoints, and wildlife encounters.
- Must-visit spots: Trung Trang Cave, Ngu Lam Peak (best viewpoint), Cat Ba Langur Conservation Area.
- Best for: Hikers, nature lovers, and those seeking adventure.
Go Shopping in Halong City – Souvenirs & Local Delights
Halong City offers several shopping opportunities, from night markets to high-end shopping malls.
- Best places to shop: Halong Market, Vincom Plaza, Pearl Handicraft Stores.
- Popular items: Handmade ceramics, lacquerware, fresh seafood, and pearls.
Discovery Hanoi – Best Tours & Attractions from Halong Bay Cruise Port
Top Attractions in Hanoi:
- Hanoi Old Quarter & Hoan Kiem Lake – Historic streets, vibrant markets, and a serene lake.
- Imperial Citadel of Thang Long – A UNESCO-listed historical site.
- Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum & Museum – Learn about Vietnam’s iconic leader.
- Hoa Lo Prison (“Hanoi Hilton”) – A glimpse into wartime history.
- Vietnam Museum of Ethnology – Discover Vietnam’s diverse ethnic cultures.
- One-Pillar Pagoda & Temple of Literature – Iconic spiritual and educational landmarks.
Why Take a Hanoi Day Trip from Halong Bay?
- Rich History & Culture: Wander Hanoi’s Old Quarter, visit ancient temples, and admire colonial-era architecture.
- Food Paradise: Savor Pho, Bun Cha, and Banh Mi at authentic Hanoi street food stalls.
- Relaxing Escape: Enjoy a peaceful stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake and visit Ngoc Son Temple.
A quick Hanoi tour from Halong International Cruise Port will make your Vietnam journey even more memorable!
>>> Do you like to get a Full Day Hanoi City Tour – Explore Highlights of Hanoi as a Local
Essential Tips for International Tourists Visiting Halong Bay Cruise Port
- Currency: The official currency is Vietnamese Dong (VND), but US dollars are widely accepted.
- Tipping: While not mandatory, tipping your driver or guide is appreciated.
- Language: Vietnamese is the official language, but English is commonly spoken at tourist destinations and major ports.
Whether you’re arriving at Halong Bay International Cruise Port or planning to take a day trip to Hanoi, this port offers a seamless gateway to some of the most stunning destinations in Vietnam. With a variety of cruise services, excursions, and local attractions, you’ll have plenty to see and do during your visit.
If you need more information or assistance with planning your trip, don’t hesitate to contact us via WhatsApp or phone at +84 974 805 797 or +84 914 815 535. We’re here to help you make the most of your visit to Halong Bay and beyond!
