If you’re exploring the beautiful Cat Ba Island and planning to visit Ninh Binh, here’s exactly how to get to Ninh Binh from Cat Ba Island — fast, easy, and comfortable.
This scenic journey takes you from the turquoise waters of Lan Ha Bay to the limestone mountains and rice valleys of Ninh Binh, one of Northern Vietnam’s most rewarding inland destinations.
- 📏 Distance: ~180 km (110 miles)
- ⏱️ Travel time: 3–5 hours depending on transport type
Quick Facts – Cat Ba island to Ninh Binh Transport Options
Private Car/ Limousine Bus + Ferry
⏱️ Duration: 3.5–4 hours
💰 Price: $$–$$$
🗺️ Route: Got Pier → Hai Phong → Ninh Binh
🌟 Comfort: ★★★★★
✅ Best for: Couples, families, luxury travelers
Shuttle Bus + Ferry Combo
⏱️ Duration: 4.5–5 hours
💰 Price: $
🗺️ Route: Got Pier / Tuan Chau → Ninh Binh
🌟 Comfort: ★★★
✅ Best for: Budget travelers & backpackers
Ferry + Public Bus (Independent Route)
⏱️ Duration: 5–6 hours
💰 Price: $
🗺️ Route: via Hai Phong / Ha Long
🌟 Comfort: ★★
✅ Best for: Independent & local-style explorers
💡 Tip: No direct ferry between Cat Ba and Ninh Binh — all routes connect through Hai Phong or Ha Long.
You may like to read more:
- Ninh Binh to Ha Long Bay: 4 Most popular transportation options for tourists
- How to get from Hanoi to Ninh Binh? – If you are planning a trip to Ninh Binh from Hanoi
Discover the Best Ways to Travel from Cat Ba Island to Ninh Binh
Planning your journey from Cat Ba Island to Ninh Binh? Unlock a world of transport options tailored to your budget, comfort, and schedule – from luxurious limousines to affordable buses and ferries. Here are the top ways to travel from Cat Ba Island to Ninh Binh effortlessly and enjoyably.
Option 1 – Private Car/ Limousine Bus + Ferry (Luxury Door-to-Door)
If you value comfort, privacy, and flexibility, this is the most comfortable and time-efficient way to travel from Cat Ba Island to Ninh Binh. Your trip begins with a private limousine or car (9–11 seats) that picks you up directly from your hotel in Cat Ba Town. You’ll be driven to Cai Vieng or Got Pier, where a ferry takes you across the bay to Hai Phong mainland. From there, the same vehicle continues along the expressway directly to your hotel in Ninh Binh.
- Route Overview: Cat Ba Town → Cai Vieng/Got Pier → Ferry → Hai Phong Expressway → Ninh Binh
- Estimated travel time: 3.5 – 4 hours total
- Price range: from US $120 – 180 per vehicle (depending on group size & season)
✨ What’s included:
- Door-to-door pickup & drop-off
- Modern Dcar/Fuso Limousine (Wi-Fi, A/C, bottled water)
- Ferry tickets between Cat Ba Island and mainland
- English-speaking support via WhatsApp
💡 Why choose this option:
- ✅ Fastest and most comfortable way to travel
- ✅ Flexible departure times (no waiting for group buses)
- ✅ Ideal for couples, families, or small groups with luggage
💬 Book your private Cat Ba → Ninh Binh transfer instantly via WhatsApp: +84 974 805 797 | +84 914 815 535
👉 Before leaving Cat Ba, check our Best Time to Visit Ninh Binh and Ninh Binh Day Tours to make the most of your trip.
Option 2 – Shuttle Bus + Ferry Combo (Popular & Affordable)
This is the most common and budget-friendly way to travel from Cat Ba Island to Ninh Binh — perfect for backpackers or solo travelers. You’ll take a shuttle bus from your hotel in Cat Ba Town to Cai Vieng or Got Pier, board the public ferry to Hai Phong mainland, and continue by connecting shuttle bus to Ninh Binh.
- Route Overview: Cat Ba Town → Cai Vieng/Got Pier → Ferry → Hai Phong → Ninh Binh
- Estimated travel time: 4.5 – 5 hours
- Price range: from US $18 – 25 per person
✨ Why travelers love this option:
- ✅ Affordable and convenient with fixed daily schedules
- ✅ Door-to-door service (hotel pickup and drop-off included)
- ✅ Comfortable buses with A/C and Wi-Fi
⚠️ Travel Tips:
- Choose morning departures (7:00–8:00 AM) for best ferry connections.
- Bring light snacks and water — queues can be longer in high season.
- Always confirm your ferry schedule a day before traveling.
💬 Need help booking? Message us for schedules and tickets via WhatsApp: +84 974 805 797 | +84 914 815 535
Option 3 – Ferry + Public Bus / Train (Budget & Independent Route)
For independent travelers who prefer flexibility or local experience, you can do this route yourself using public transport. Take a public ferry from Cat Ba (Cai Vieng or Tuan Chau) to Hai Phong or Ha Long, then continue to Ninh Binh by public bus or train.
- Route Overview: Cat Ba → Ferry → Hai Phong / Ha Long → Ninh Binh (by bus or train)
- Estimated travel time: 5 – 6 hours
- Price range: around US $12 – 18 per person
✨ Why choose this route:
- ✅ Cheapest way to travel between Cat Ba and Ninh Binh
- ✅ Flexible timing and freedom to explore along the way
- ✅ Great for adventurous backpackers or long-term travelers
⚠️ Keep in mind:
- You’ll need to manage your own transfers between ferry, bus, and train stations.
- Public transport in smaller towns may have limited English support.
- Allow extra time for delays during weekends or rainy season.
💡 Pro Tip: Combine this route with a short stop in Ha Long City for lunch or sightseeing before heading to Ninh Binh.
👉 Before you arrive, read our insider’s list of Things to Do in Ninh Binh to make the most of your stay.
Route Overview – From Cat Ba to Ninh Binh
The most efficient route is via Got Pier (Hai Phong):
Cat Ba Town → Cai Vieng Port → Got Pier → Ninh Binh City
Using the new expressway between Hai Phong and Ninh Binh, travel times have dropped dramatically — now under 3 hours with private transfers.
🧭 Tip: For smoother travel, leave Cat Ba early morning to avoid ferry congestion.
Compare Your Options – Cat Ba to Ninh Binh Transfers
Choosing the best way to travel from Cat Ba Island to Ninh Binh depends on your comfort, budget, and time. Here’s a quick recap to help you decide 👇
🚐 Private Transfer – Luxury & Fastest
⏱️ 2.5–3.5 hrs
🌟 Comfort: ★★★★★
💰 $$–$$$
👥 Ideal for: Families, Couples
🟢 Why choose it: Fastest, door-to-door, zero transfers
💬 Book via WhatsApp: +84 974 805 797 | +84 914 815 535
🚌 Shuttle + Ferry – Balanced & Popular
⏱️ 4–5 hrs
🌟 Comfort: ★★★
💰 $
👥 Ideal for: Budget travelers, solo adventurers
🟢 Why choose it: Easy booking, great value, daily service
💬 Message us for daily departures: +84 974 805 797
🚎 Public Route – Budget & Local Style
⏱️ 5–6 hrs
🌟 Comfort: ★★
💰 $
👥 Ideal for: Backpackers, slow travelers
🟢 Why choose it: Cheapest, flexible schedule
✨ Still unsure which option fits you best? Our travel experts reply instantly with updated schedules, prices & local tips 📲 WhatsApp Support 24/7: +84 974 805 797 | +84 914 815 535
Travel Tips Before You Go
🕓 Ferry Schedule: Last ferries usually leave Cat Ba around 4:30–5:00 PM — plan accordingly.
🚫 Avoid Crowds: Weekends and public holidays can be busy; book early if possible.
🥤 Pack Smart: Bring water, snacks, and a light jacket (ferry decks can be windy).
🌦️ Weather Note: Check conditions before departure — heavy rain may delay ferries.
Ready to Book Your Cat Ba → Ninh Binh Transfer?
💬 WhatsApp Support (24/7): +84 974 805 797 | +84 914 815 535
🚐 Choose your travel style:
- Private Limousine + Speedboat Combo
- Shuttle Bus + Ferry Combo
- Custom Group Transfer
- Our travel team responds instantly with schedules, prices & best recommendations.
Why Visit Ninh Binh After Cat Ba?
After the island adventures of Cat Ba, Ninh Binh offers a complete contrast — peaceful rivers, ancient pagodas, and lush rice fields surrounded by limestone cliffs.
You can visit:
- Hoa Lu Ancient Capital – historic temples of King Dinh & Le
- Trang An Scenic Complex – UNESCO World Heritage boat caves
- Mua Cave Viewpoint – hike for the best panoramic photo in Vietnam
Explore them all with our Ninh Binh Tours Collection — including private limousine day trips designed for comfort and discovery.
Continue Exploring
🚐 Doing the reverse trip? Read our How to Get from Ninh Binh to Cat Ba Island – Transfer & Ferry Options
🧭 Plan your adventure with our Ninh Binh Itinerary
📖 Explore our full Ninh Binh Travel Guide for inspiration
FAQ – Cat Ba to Ninh Binh Transfers
Is there a direct ferry from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh?
- No. You’ll need to travel via Got Pier or Hai Phong. There’s currently no direct ferry between the two.
What’s the fastest way to get to Ninh Binh from Cat Ba Island?
- The Private Limousine + Speedboat combo (2.5–3.5 hrs) is the quickest and most comfortable.
Can I bring luggage?
- Yes, all transfer options allow standard luggage. Limousines have more space for suitcases.
What time should I leave Cat Ba?
- Morning departures (7:00–9:00 AM) are ideal for smooth ferry connections and daylight arrivals.
Can I connect from Cat Ba → Ninh Binh → Hanoi?
- Yes. Many travelers continue to Hanoi the next day or join a Ninh Binh Day Tour before heading north.
