A complete guide to Halong bay international cruise port for tourists!
If you are considering taking an international cruise via Vietnam, Halong bay is one of the top destinations that you should not miss. In the following article, you may find everything you need to know about Halong Bay International Cruise Port and other nearby locations such as the capital Hanoi. It will be a useful guide for your upcoming trip, so don’t pass it up!
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Halong bay cruise port name and cruise port map?
Halong Bay, made up of around 2000 islands and islets, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Numerous cruise ports may be found in Halong Bay, serving as a gateway to this stunning area.
Here is some information on domestic and international cruise ports in Halong bay:
How many cruise ports are there in Halong bay?
Halong – Vietnam is divided into 4 main parts: Halong Bay (in the center), Bai Tu Long Bay (in the northeast), Lan Ha Bay (in the south) and Cat Ba island (in the southwest). There are 5 cruise ports in Halong Bay to welcome tourists to visit each part of the bay.
International cruise ports such as Cai Lan and Halong International Cruise Port welcome both international and domestic cruise ships while inland ports such as Tuan Chau harbour, Hon Gai harbor and Got Pier are mainly to welcome domestic passengers.
>>> Have a look at: Map of Halong Bay: Top 10 Destinations to satisfy your wanderlust
International Cruise Ports in Halong bay
There are two international cruise ports in Halong Bay: Cai Lan International Cruise Port and HaLong International Cruise Port (Sun Group port), which can handle big ships with a capacity of more than 5,000 TEUs.
Halong International Cruise Port ( Sun Port ) – The newest cruise port
Ha Long International Cruise Port is a leading cruise port located near stunning Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site in northern Vietnam.
Situated adjacent to Sun World Ha Long Complex in the heart of the Bai Chay tourism region, Ha Long International Cruise Port is a perfect location for both domestic and international ships. With six wharves to handle foreign cruise ships, Ha Long International Cruise Port features a waiting space that is 13,500 square meters in size and can accommodate 2,000 people. Additionally, to meet the demands of visitors, the cruise port is fully equipped with:
- Passenger shuttle service: The port offers shuttle buses to take you to nearby attractions and hotels as well as between the cruise ship and the terminal building.
- Support services: including baggage handling, currency exchange and tour booking support.
- Security and safety: The port prioritizes your safety and has comprehensive security measures in place. This includes CCTV cameras, security checkpoints and a highly-trained emergency response team.
Cai Lan Port – The deepest water Halong cruise port
- Location: No 1, Cai Lan Street, Bai Chay Ward, Halong City, Quang Ninh Province (155 kilometers from Hanoi, capital of Vietnam)
The international container port of Cai Lan Port, which is well-known for its deep waters, has grown in popularity as a destination for international cruises. While HaLong International Cruise Port has shifted its operations to focus on international cruises, Cai Lan Port handles container ships to transport goods.
Travelers who want a private experience can consider a private cruise on HaLong Bay departing from this port. From Cai Lan, visitors can join a guided tour to Thien Cung Cave, or Sung Sot Cave. For those who want to learn more about local life, a visit to Cua Van Floating Village is a great idea to get a glimpse of the daily lives of locals.
Domestic Cruise Ports in Halong bay
In addition to international ports that can welcome tourists for Ha Long Bay cruises, there are also 3 domestic ports to welcome tourists: Tuan Chau harbour, Hon Gai harbour and Got Pier (Hai Phong city).
Tuan Chau Harbor – The largest Halong cruise port
- Location: Ngoc Chau, Tuan Chau, Halong, Quang Ninh
Located on Tuan Chau Island, Tuan Chau International Marina is the largest artificial cruise port in Halong Bay. This marina offers a convenient departure point for both domestic and international cruise ships. The marina is about 12.5 kilometers southwest of Ha Long City and can be easily accessed via a bridge connecting the island to the mainland.
Tuan Chau International Marina is designed in the European style and features contemporary amenities. The marina includes two ports: Tuan Chau 1, serving day cruise ships, and Tuan Chau International Passenger Port (Port 2), serving overnight cruise ships. Outside the port are rows of benches where visitors can comfortably admire the seaport scenery while waiting for departure.
Hon Gai Pier – The oldest Halong cruise port
Hon Gai harbour, also known as Vinashin harbour, is the departure point for cruises to Bai Tu Long Bay. Despite its lesser size compared to other ports, Hon Gai harbor has long been crucial to Quang Ninh province’s maritime economic growth. From Hon Gai harbour, you can board a cruise ship to explore lesser-known areas of Halong Bay, including Bai Tu Long Bay, Quan Lan Island, Ngoc Vung Island and many beautiful beaches.
Got Pier – The terminal of cruises from Hai Phong
- Location: 356 Road, Cat Hai, Hai Phong
Located in Hai Phong city, Got pier connects Hai Phong with Cat Ba island, the largest island in Halong Bay and the most common way to get there is via this port. Got pier is smaller than other wharves such as Tuan Chau harbour and Hon Gai harbour, however, this is the first choice for the journey to Lan Ha Bay. In order to reach Got pier from Hai Phong city, visitors need to travel to Dinh Vu port by car or bus. Then, take a ferry to Ninh Tiep, which takes about 45 minutes. From Ninh Tiep, proceed quickly to Got pier.
Where do cruise ships dock for Hanoi, Vietnam? How far is Hanoi from the cruise port?
The cruise port that serves the Hanoi-Halong route is located at Bai Chay, Halong Bay. Depending on the specific route, Hanoi and HaLong International Cruise Port are roughly 150–180 kilometers away by car. Traveling from HaLong International Cruise Port to Hanoi can take between 2.5 to 3 hours at normal driving speeds in Vietnam.
How to get to Hanoi from HaLong international cruise port?
There are several ways to Get to Hanoi from Halong International Cruise Port:
- By private shuttle/Taxi:: This is probably the most convenient and direct option, but the price will be a bit high compared to other means. From the cruise port, you can book a private shuttle or taxi to take you straight to your destination in Hanoi. Travel time will take about 2.5-3 hours depending on traffic situations.
- By public buses: There are regular bus services connecting Ha Long city with Hanoi. The travel from HaLong International Cruise Port to Hanoi, including the time spent traveling to the bus station, will take around 4 hours. This is a more economical option than a private shuttle service, but it will take more time and be more difficult if you are coming to Vietnam for the first time.
- Through Organized Tours/Shore Excursions: Some cruise lines or local tour operators may offer organized day trips or shore excursions from Ha Long port to Hanoi. This can be a convenient option if available, as the tour provider will handle transportation and logistics.
Regardless of the ways of transportation, you should plan your move in advance, especially if you have a tight schedule or specific requirements.
>>> 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
How far is Halong bay from the international cruise port?
Ha Long International Cruise Port is located on the shore of Ha Long Bay so they are quite close to each other. Thus, a Halong bay cruise is a common activity that is part of the experience during free time after reaching Halong International Cruise Port. If you want to take a domestic Ha Long cruise, you will need to drive 20 minutes from Tuan Chau Port, which is around 14 kilometers away
What to do near Halong bay cruise port? Top Ideas things to do for visitors!
Since being recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1994, Halong bay has won over the hearts and minds of visitors with its cruise ships, traditional fishing villages, vibrant night markets and close proximity to some of Vietnam’s biggest destinations.
Whether you choose to stay close to the limestone islands that dot Halong bay or venture further inland to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, there is certainly something for any adventurous traveler. You can arrange your excursion to Hanoi, join a cruise excursion, visit limestone islands and intricate cave network in the bay, spend an afternoon exploring historic temples or go hiking through Cat Ba National Park.
Halong Bay Shore Excursions & Cruise
The most well-liked shore excursions departing from Ha Long International Cruise Port include engaging experience activities and touring the bay and its beautiful islands. These activities offer the opportunity to witness firsthand the breathtaking natural beauty of Halong Bay. These excursions may include:
- Halong Bay Day Tour Cruises or multi-day trips through the bay’s limestone islands
- Visit amazing cave systems: The most famous and largest is Sung Sot Cave, which is located on Bo Hon Island and belongs to the UNESCO World Heritage area.
- Go kayaking: What better way to experience the breathtaking landscapes and emerald waters of the bay than by kayaking through it? Do kayaking in Halong bay will provide you with the opportunity to explore hidden caves on the bay or beautiful beaches.
- Visit floating fishing villages: You can witness firsthand the local life and how local fishermen cultivate and harvest seafood everyday.
- Explore Cat Ba National Park: Visit this park for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, scuba diving, hiking, exploring caves and rock climbing. You can also join a guided tour to the island.
- Visit Tuan Chau Island: Take day trips or overnight cruises from Tuan Chau International Marina to explore Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay or Cat Ba Island.
- Halong Bay by seaplane: Join a scenic flight to see Halong Bay from above.
- Enjoy seafood: Savor fresh seafood while you’re in the Bay.
- Go shopping: If one of the best and favourite parts of your trip is shopping, visit central markets in Ha Long city such as Bai Chay market or pearl farms to shop for brocade products, handicrafts made from pearls or shells of various sea creatures as gifts for friends and family.
>>> Get Free Your Itinerary – Hotline/What’s app: + 84 974 805 797
Discovery Hanoi – Top Hanoi tours and attractions from cruise ship port
Things to know about Hanoi:
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is home to many interesting tourist attractions. The most popular attractions include:
- Hanoi Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake
- Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
- Museum and Mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh President
- Hoa Lo Prison (known during the war as Hanoi Hilton)
- Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
- One-Pillar Pagoda and Temple of Literature
>>> Do you like to get a Full Day Hanoi City Tour – Explore Highlights of Hanoi as a Local
In Vietnam, the official currency is Dong, or VND. However, US dollars are widely accepted. 1 US dollar can be exchanged for 25,000 VND
Tipping is not a culture in Vietnam, but tipping your driver or tour guide is welcome. Tour drivers and guides rely on tips for their income, so you can tip them during their time helping you explore Hanoi and Halong Bay.
Bargaining is a core part of the culture in Vietnam, thus you can comfortably haggle at the markets and shops here.
Top Hanoi Tours and attractions from Cruise Ship Port
While a cruise to Halong Bay will be an unforgettable experience, your Vietnam tour will be enhanced by adding a day trip to Hanoi. A short tour to Hanoi from HaLong International Cruise Port will allow you to:
- Immerse yourself in history: Explore Hanoi Old Quarter, a maze of narrow streets lined with traditional shops, temples and architecture dating back to the French colonial time. Stroll through temples like Quan Thanh Temple and Temple of Literature, One-Pillar Pagoda, and explore Vietnam’s long history.
- Enjoy the authentic flavors of Hanoi’s street food: From street food stalls to high-end restaurants, Hanoi offers a culinary paradise. Sample the famous Pho, “bun cha” (grilled pork with rice vermicelli) and delicious Banh Mi.
- Breathe fresh air: Escape the bustling and hustling of the city with a visit to Hoan Kiem Lake, a peaceful oasis in the heart of Hanoi. Enjoy a peaceful walk around the lake and visit Ngoc Son Temple.
Ha Long Bay International Cruise Port is a leading cruise destination offering a truly special experience for visitors to explore the wonders of Halong Bay and the surrounding areas.
Plan carefully before your trip so that every moment of your stay in Vietnam is memorable. If you need full guidance and support from a local assistant, let us know via Whatsapp (+84) 974 805 797. We are always willing to assist you.
