Bút Islet in Bai Tu Long Bay: Travel Guide, Activities, Costs & Eco-Tours

Bút Islet, also known as Pen Islet (Hòn Cái Bút), is a captivating limestone formation in Bai Tu Long Bay, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site near Halong Bay in Halong Region, Vietnam. Resembling a pen bobbing in the sea, this 10-meter-high karst symbolizes knowledge, according to local legend, bestowed by the Mother Dragon to inspire future generations. Located 30 minutes by boat from Con Cóc Islet en route to Ba Trái Đào (Three Peaches) Island, Bút Islet is a poetic highlight of Bai Tu Long Bay’s “object collection” of uniquely shaped karsts. Spanning 157.8 km², Bai Tu Long Bay offers a tranquil escape compared to the busier Halong Bay, with pristine beaches, clear waters, and cultural gems like Vung Vieng Fishing Village. Bút Islet’s evocative shape and cultural significance make it a must-see for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking eco-conscious adventures. Following Vietnam’s administrative restructuring, Ha Long City has transitioned into Halong Region, reinforcing its tourism prominence while prioritizing sustainability. Aligned with Quang Ninh’s “Green Tourism” initiative, Bai Tu Long Bay promotes eco-friendly exploration through regulated cruises and community-supported tourism. Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours provide an authentic, responsible way to experience Bút Islet—book your adventure via the links throughout this guide.

Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, specializes in sustainable Southeast Asia journeys, emphasizing environmental and cultural preservation. Our Bai Tu Long Bay tours, including Bút Islet visits, feature eco-friendly transport—electric boats, bamboo rowboats, and low-emission shuttles—guided by local experts who share the bay’s heritage and legends. Supporting communities in Halong Region and Van Don, we align with Quang Ninh’s sustainability goals. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless experience. Contact us at sales@legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp +84825862222 to book eco-tours and explore Bút Islet responsibly.

Vietnam’s administrative reorganization has integrated Ha Long City into Halong Region under Quảng Ninh Province, streamlining access to Bai Tu Long Bay’s attractions, including Bút Islet, Ba Trái Đào Island, and Vung Vieng Fishing Village. Supported by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric ferries, and a VND1.7 trillion coastal preservation project—Halong Region facilitates eco-conscious exploration, making Bút Islet a key highlight in sustainable tourism itineraries.

Bút Islet, nestled in Bai Tu Long Bay, is a year-round destination, with optimal times based on weather and crowd levels. The bay’s tropical monsoon climate influences visibility and activities around this pen-shaped karst.

• Autumn (September–November): Best Time. Cool and dry, 22–28°C (71.6–82.4°F), low humidity (70–75%), minimal rainfall (50–150 mm/month). November’s clear skies and fewer crowds offer perfect conditions for photographing Bút Islet and cruising ($80–$200 or 2,000,000–5,000,000 VND). Ideal for kayaking ($10–$25 or 250,000–625,000 VND).

• Spring (March–May): Warm and pleasant, 20–30°C (68–86°F), moderate humidity (75–80%), low rainfall (<100 mm/month). Clear views of Bút Islet’s pen-like form, but peak season crowds require early bookings ($100–$250 or 2,500,000–6,250,000 VND). Great for water activities.

• Winter (December–February): Cool and dry, 10–22°C (50–71.6°F), low humidity (65–70%), minimal rainfall (<30 mm/month). Occasional fog adds a mystical vibe to Bút Islet, ideal for cultural cruises ($100–$250 or 2,500,000–6,250,000 VND). Book early for Christmas/New Year ($120–$300 or 3,000,000–7,500,000 VND).

• Summer (June–August): Hot and humid, 27–34°C (80.6–93.2°F), high humidity (80–90%), frequent showers (300–450 mm/month). Budget-friendly cruises ($60–$120 or 1,500,000–3,000,000 VND) offer clear Bút Islet views between showers, but typhoon risks require weather checks.

Tip: Visit in October–November for optimal weather and serene views of Bút Islet, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Autumn Heritage ($100–$150).

Bút Islet’s pen-like shape and cultural symbolism make it a highlight of Bai Tu Long Bay cruises. Below are eco-friendly activities to enjoy nearby, emphasizing sustainable tourism:

• Eco-Cruise: Sail past Bút Islet on an electric boat, capturing its pen-like silhouette and learning about the Mother Dragon legend ($80–$200 or 2,000,000–5,000,000 VND for 2D1N). Cruises often include Ba Trái Đào Island and Thien Canh Son Cave ($5 or 125,000 VND entry), offering a low-impact exploration.

• Kayaking: Paddle around Bút Islet and nearby karsts like Con Cóc Islet for an up-close view of its unique form ($10–$25 or 250,000–625,000 VND). Ideal in calm autumn waters, this zero-emission activity enhances the experience.

• Photography: Capture Bút Islet’s pen shape at sunrise or sunset, especially in November’s clear skies. Use a drone with cruise permission for aerial shots or shoot from the cruise deck for stunning perspectives.

• Swimming at Ba Trái Đào Island: A 30-minute cruise from Bút Islet, Ba Trái Đào’s three-peach-shaped islets offer secluded beaches for swimming (free), perfect for eco-conscious relaxation.

• Bamboo Boat Tours: Visit Vung Vieng Fishing Village, 25 km from Bút Islet, with local rowers ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND), supporting community-based tourism and offering cultural insights.

• Cooking Classes: Learn to prepare Vietnamese dishes like banh gat gu onboard ($15–$25 or 375,000–625,000 VND), complementing the cruise with local culinary immersion.

Tip: Opt for a 2D1N or 3D2N eco-cruise to combine Bút Islet views with multiple activities, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Explorer ($95–$140).

Bút Islet, located 30 minutes by boat from Con Cóc Islet en route to Ba Trái Đào Island in Bai Tu Long Bay, is accessible only by boat, typically via eco-friendly cruises departing from Hon Gai or Van Don ports, 180 km from Hanoi. Below are sustainable transportation options to reach the ports and cruise to Bút Islet, including costs and travel times.

1. Eco-Cruise with Included Transfers (Most Convenient)

• Description: Most Bai Tu Long Bay cruises include round-trip transfers from Hanoi to Hon Gai or Van Don ports via low-emission limousines or shuttles, docking near Bút Islet during the itinerary. Operators like Indochina Junk use electric boats for sustainability.

• Travel Time: 2.5–3.5 hours (Hanoi to port) + cruise duration (2D1N or 3D2N, passing Bút Islet on day 1 or 2).

• Cost: $80–$200 (2,000,000–5,000,000 VND) for 2D1N; $120–$350 (3,000,000–8,750,000 VND) for 3D2N, including transfers, meals, and activities.

• Departure Points: Hanoi Old Quarter or your hotel to Hon Gai/Van Don ports, then cruise to Bút Islet.

• Sustainability: Electric boats and waste-reduction practices align with UNESCO conservation goals.

• How to Book: Reserve through Legend Travel Group for trusted operators like Dragon Legend or Swan Cruises.

• Tip: Choose cruises with Bút Islet on the itinerary, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Eco-Cruise ($95–$140).

2. Shuttle Bus to Port

• Description: Air-conditioned shuttle buses (e.g., Hoang Khoi Limousine) offer shared rides from Hanoi to Hon Gai or Van Don ports, where cruises to Bút Islet depart. Fuel-efficient fleets reduce emissions.

• Travel Time: 2.5–3 hours, with a 15-minute rest stop.

• Cost: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND) one-way per person.

• Departure Points: Hanoi Old Quarter (My Dinh or Gia Lam stations) to Hon Gai/Van Don ports.

• Sustainability: Shared transport lowers carbon footprints.

• How to Book: Book via Legend Travel Group or platforms like 12Go.

• Tip: Align bus arrival with cruise schedules (10:00 AM–12:00 PM), included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Discovery Tour ($90–$130).

3. Private Car or Limousine

• Description: Private cars or limousines (e.g., Indochina Go) provide door-to-door service from Hanoi to Hon Gai/Van Don ports, ideal for groups. Hybrid vehicles are available for eco-travel.

• Travel Time: 2.5 hours via 5B Highway.

• Cost: $50–$80 (1,250,000–2,000,000 VND) one-way for a 4-seater; $80–$120 (2,000,000–3,000,000 VND) for a 9-seater.

• Departure Points: Hanoi Old Quarter, Noi Bai Airport, or your hotel to Hon Gai/Van Don ports.

• Sustainability: Request hybrid vehicles to reduce emissions.

• How to Book: Arrange through Legend Travel Group or trusted providers.

• Tip: Customize eco-friendly stops en route, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Heritage Cruise ($100–$150).

4. Seaplane (Luxury Option)

• Description: Hai Au Aviation’s seaplane flights from Noi Bai Airport to Tuan Chau Marina offer aerial views of Bai Tu Long Bay, followed by a transfer (30 minutes, $5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND) to Hon Gai/Van Don ports for cruises to Bút Islet.

• Travel Time: 45 minutes (flight) + 30 minutes (transfer), totaling ~1.5 hours.

• Cost: $400 (10,000,000 VND) one-way per person.

• Departure Points: Noi Bai Airport to Tuan Chau Marina, then Hon Gai/Van Don ports.

• Sustainability: Low per-passenger emissions for short flights.

• How to Book: Reserve via Hai Au Aviation or Legend Travel Group’s luxury packages.

• Tip: Book early for peak seasons, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Luxury Tour ($250–$400).

To ensure a comfortable and eco-friendly visit to Bút Islet, pack thoughtfully based on the season and cruise activities:

• Clothing:

  • Spring/Autumn (March–May, September–November): Lightweight, breathable clothing (t-shirts, shorts, long pants for cultural sites), a light jacket for cooler evenings, and water shoes for kayaking.

  • Summer (June–August): Swimsuits, quick-dry clothing, sandals, and a hat for sun protection.

  • Winter (December–February): Warm layers (sweaters, fleece), a waterproof jacket, scarf, and closed-toe shoes for cooler, foggy days.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND), sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to shield against UV rays.

• Rain Gear (Summer): Lightweight raincoat ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND), waterproof bag, and umbrella for brief showers.

• Eco-Friendly Essentials: Reusable water bottle ($0.50 or 12,500 VND), biodegradable toiletries, and a reusable tote to minimize plastic waste.

• Activity Gear:

  • Kayaking/Photography: Dry bag for electronics, quick-dry towel, and a camera or smartphone with a waterproof case ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Cruising/Swimming: Binoculars for distant karst views, swimwear for Ba Trái Đào Island, and a small backpack for essentials.

• Cultural Respect: Modest clothing (long pants, covered shoulders) for nearby fishing villages like Vung Vieng.

• Miscellaneous: Power bank, offline maps (Maps.me), and a small first-aid kit.

Tip: Pack light to reduce your environmental footprint, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Eco-Tour ($95–$140).

Visiting Bút Islet is typically part of a Bai Tu Long Bay cruise, with costs covering transportation, activities, and onboard amenities. Below are approximate expenses for an eco-conscious trip:

• Transportation:

  • Shuttle Bus: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND) one-way.

  • Private Car/Limousine: $50–$120 (1,250,000–3,000,000 VND) one-way for 2–4 people.

  • Seaplane: $400 (10,000,000 VND) one-way.

  • Eco-Cruise with Transfers: $80–$200 (2,000,000–5,000,000 VND) for 2D1N; $120–$350 (3,000,000–8,750,000 VND) for 3D2N.

• Accommodation (if not on a cruise):

  • Homestays: $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND), e.g., Van Don Homestay.

  • Budget Hotels: $15–$30/night (375,000–750,000 VND).

  • Mid-Range Hotels: $30–$80/night (750,000–2,000,000 VND).

• Activities:

  • Kayaking near Bút Islet: $10–$25 (250,000–625,000 VND).

  • Bamboo Boat Tour (Vung Vieng): $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Cooking Class: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

  • Cave Entry (e.g., Thien Canh Son): $5 (125,000 VND).

• Food and Drinks (if not included in cruise):

  • Street Food (e.g., Bánh Gật Gù): $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

  • Restaurant Meals: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

  • Bottled Water/Coconut Juice: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).

• Total Daily Budget (per person, excluding cruise):

  • Budget Traveler: $25–$40 (625,000–1,000,000 VND).

  • Mid-Range Traveler: $50–$100 (1,250,000–2,500,000 VND).

  • Luxury Traveler: $150–$400 (3,750,000–10,000,000 VND).

Tip: Choose a cruise package for all-inclusive pricing, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Eco-Tour ($95–$140).

• Book Early: Reserve eco-tours via Legend Travel Group 1–2 months in advance for peak seasons (September–November, March–May) or festive periods like Christmas to secure preferred dates and eco-friendly boats.

• Sustainability: Select cruises with eco-certifications (e.g., Indochina Junk) to minimize environmental impact; support local vendors at Vung Vieng to align with Quang Ninh’s green goals.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) for Halong Region, Van Don, and Hon Gai; save Hon Gai Port as a landmark for cruise departures.

• Safety: Secure valuables on cruises; wear life jackets while kayaking; check summer forecasts for typhoons (June–August).

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly for cultural visits to nearby fishing villages (long pants, covered shoulders); say “cảm ơn” (thank you).

• Health: Stay hydrated with bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); apply mosquito repellent ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for outdoor activities.

Our sustainable tours include Bút Islet visits, tailored to Bai Tu Long Bay’s serene climate and attractions, with eco-friendly transportation from Hanoi:

• Bai Tu Long Bay Explorer (2D1N, $95–$140/person): Overnight cruise past Bút Islet, Ba Trái Đào Island, and Vung Vieng Fishing Village with kayaking and limousine transfers. Includes guide, meals, and eco-transfers.

• Bai Tu Long Bay Immersion (3D2N, $150–$300/person): Two-night cruise to Bút Islet, Ba Mun Island, and Minh Chau Beach with bamboo boat tours. Includes guide, meals, and eco-transfers.

• Bai Tu Long Bay Foodie Cruise (2D1N, $85–$120/person): Seafood tasting, cooking class, and Halong Night Market visit, cruising past Bút Islet with shuttle bus transfers. Includes eco-transfers, meals, and guide.

• Bai Tu Long Bay Heritage Cruise (2D1N, $100–$150/person): Bút Islet, Vung Vieng Fishing Village, and squid fishing with private car transfers. Includes lunch and guide.

• Bai Tu Long Bay Discovery (2D1N, $90–$130/person): Quan Lan Island cycling, Tuan Chau cultural shows, and Bút Islet views with eco-transfers. Includes snacks and guide.

• Bai Tu Long Bay Luxury Tour (3D2N, $250–$400/person): Seaplane transfer, luxury cruise past Bút Islet, and Ba Mun rainforest hike. Includes meals and guide.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and entrance fees. Enjoy 10% off for groups of 8+ or seasonal promotions. Book now via links around this page!

Bút Islet, a pen-shaped karst symbolizing knowledge in Bai Tu Long Bay, Quang Ninh Province, 160 km from Hanoi, offers a poetic glimpse into Vietnam’s geological and cultural wonders, best explored via eco-friendly cruises ($20–$50, 500,000–1,250,000 VND) during autumn (September–November, 20–28°C) or spring (March–May, 18–25°C). This serene bay, less crowded than Halong Bay, captivates with kayaking ($5–$15, 125,000–375,000 VND), photography, and cultural tours. Legend Travel Group’s Halong Bay Tours ensure a sustainable Halong Bay Travel experience, featuring seamless eco-conscious transportation from Hanoi and visits to Thien Canh Son Cave and Vung Vieng Fishing Village, supporting local communities. Don’t miss out—contact Legend Travel Group to browse our curated eco-tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to cruise past Bút Islet’s evocative silhouette? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse yourself in Vietnam’s coastal treasure!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources:

• Bút Islet and Bai Tu Long Bay Information: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group