Traveling from Cat Ba Island to Ninh Binh is a popular return route for travelers exploring Northern Vietnam — connecting island scenery and coastal bays with inland limestone mountains and river landscapes.
This guide focuses purely on transportation logistics: distance, routes, travel time, costs, and which option fits your schedule best. No sightseeing overlap, no itinerary stuffing — just clear, reliable planning.
Quick answer:
- Distance ~ 180 km
- Fastest option: Private car / limousine + speedboat (2.5–3.5 hrs)
- Most popular & affordable: Shuttle bus + ferry (4–5 hrs)
Overview – Cat Ba Island to Ninh Binh Transfer
There is no direct land or sea route between Cat Ba Island and Ninh Binh.
All transfers require crossing back to the mainland — usually via Got Pier (Hai Phong) — before continuing south to Ninh Binh by road.
This guide is ideal if you:
- Are finishing your Cat Ba or Lan Ha Bay stay
- Want to reach Ninh Binh directly, without detouring via Hanoi
- Need to avoid missing the last ferry of the day
- Want to choose between comfort, speed, or budget
Doing the opposite route? Read: Ninh Binh to Cat Ba Island – Complete Transfer Guide?
Distance, Route & Travel Time at a Glance
- Distance: ~180 km (110 miles)
- Main route: Cat Ba Town → Got Pier (Hai Phong) → Ninh Binh
- Sea crossing: Cai Vieng Port ↔ Got Pier
Average travel times
- Private car / limousine + speedboat: 2.5–3.5 hours
- Shuttle bus + ferry: 4–5 hours
- Public ferry + bus/train (self-arranged): 5–6 hours
Best Ways to Get from Cat Ba Island to Ninh Binh
Cat Ba to Ninh Binh by Private Car / Limousine + Speedboat
This is the best option if you value comfort, speed, and door-to-door service.(Fastest & Most Comfortable)
You’ll be picked up directly at your hotel in Cat Ba Town, cross to the mainland by speedboat or priority ferry, then continue via expressway straight to Ninh Binh.
- Route: Cat Ba Town → Cai Vieng / Got Pier → Speedboat / Ferry → Hai Phong Expressway → Ninh Binh
- Total time: 2.5–3.5 hours
- Best for: Families, couples, small groups, travelers with luggage
Why choose this option
Door-to-door pickup & drop-off
- Fastest and smoothest route
- Comfortable limousine seating, A/C, Wi-Fi
- Flexible departure times (no waiting for group buses)
💬 Private transfer support: WhatsApp: +84 974 805 797 | +84 914 815 535
Planning to continue onward? Read: Ninh Binh → Hanoi Transport Guide.
How to get from Cat Ba island to Ninh Binh by Shuttle Bus + Ferry Combo?
This is the most commonly booked option for travelers returning from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh. (Most Popular & Affordable)
The journey is sold as a combined ticket, making it simple and cost-effective.
- Total time: 4–5 hours
- Best for: Solo travelers, backpackers, budget-conscious couples
How it works
- Shuttle: Cat Ba Town → Cai Vieng / Got Pier
- Ferry: Got Pier → Hai Phong mainland
- Shuttle: Hai Phong → Ninh Binh
Pros
- Affordable and easy to book
- Fixed daily schedules
- Hotel pickup & drop-off included
Cons
- Dependent on ferry schedules
- Slight delays during weekends or holidays
Tips
- Choose morning departures (7:00–8:30 AM)
- Avoid late afternoon trips (risk of missing last ferry)
- Bring water and light snacks
Cat Ba island to Ninh Binh by Ferry + Public Bus / Train (Independent Travelers)
This option suits travelers who prefer full independence and don’t mind handling transfers.
- Total time: 5–6 hours
- Best for: Experienced backpackers
Typical route
- Public ferry: Cat Ba → Hai Phong or Ha Long
- Public bus or train: Hai Phong / Ha Long → Ninh Binh
Things to know
- No guaranteed connections
- Limited English signage
- More waiting time between legs
For most travelers, a shuttle combo is far more practical.
Quick Comparison – Which Option Should You Choose?
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Ferry Information You Should Know
- Main pier: Cai Vieng Port / Got Pier
- Crossing time: 20–25 minutes
- Frequency: Every 30–60 minutes (daytime)
- Last ferries: ~4:30–5:00 PM (seasonal)
⚠️ During June–August, weather may affect ferry schedules — always reconfirm on travel day.
Read more: Ninh Binh weather month-by-month.
Practical Travel Tips Before You Go
- Leave early: Morning departures reduce ferry congestion
- Pack light: Easier transfers at ports
- Check weather: Rough seas may delay boats
- Avoid weekends if possible: Higher passenger volume
- Confirm tickets one day ahead in peak season
Related Transport Guides
- Ninh Binh to Ha Long Bay – Best Transport Options
- How to Get to Ninh Binh – Complete Transport Hub
- How to Get from Hanoi to Ninh Binh?
FAQ – Cat Ba Island to Ninh Binh
Is there a direct ferry from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh?
- No. All routes connect via Hai Phong or Ha Long.
What’s the fastest way to travel?
- A private car / limousine + speedboat (2.5–3.5 hrs).
Can I bring large luggage?
- Yes. Limousines offer the most space and comfort.
What time should I leave Cat Ba?
- Between 7:00–9:00 AM for smooth ferry connections.
Can I continue from Ninh Binh to Hanoi?
- Yes — many travelers do this the following day. See Ninh Binh → Hanoi Transport Guide.
Conclusion
Traveling from Cat Ba Island to Ninh Binh completes one of Northern Vietnam’s most scenic travel loops — from coastal bays back to peaceful inland landscapes.
For most travelers, a shuttle bus + ferry offers the best balance of cost and convenience. If time and comfort matter, a private limousine + speedboat ensures a smooth, stress-free return.
Plan ahead, leave early, and your journey will be as enjoyable as the destinations themselves.
📲 Need help booking your transfer? WhatsApp: +84 974 805 797 | +84 914 815 535
