How to Get to Bai Tu Long Bay: Transportation Options, Costs & Eco-Tours

Bai Tu Long Bay, a serene extension of the UNESCO World Heritage Site alongside Halong Bay in Halong Region, Vietnam, offers a tranquil escape with over 600 limestone karsts, emerald waters, and pristine beaches like Minh Chau and Ban Chan. Less crowded than Halong Bay, it spans 157.8 km² across Van Don and Cam Pha, featuring cultural gems like Vung Vieng Fishing Village, historic caves like Thien Canh Son, and biodiverse ecosystems within Bai Tu Long National Park, an ASEAN Heritage Garden. Home to rare species like yellow monkeys and sea cucumbers, the bay is a haven for eco-conscious travelers. 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 reach and explore this natural wonder—book your adventure via the links throughout this guide!

Legend Travel Group, a leading local tour operator, crafts sustainable Southeast Asia journeys with a focus on environmental and cultural preservation. Our Bai Tu Long Bay tours include eco-friendly transportation—electric boats, bamboo rowboats, and low-emission shuttles—guided by local experts who share the bay’s heritage. 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 travel to Bai Tu Long Bay responsibly!

Vietnam’s administrative reorganization has integrated Ha Long City into Halong Region under Quang Ninh Province, enhancing access to Bai Tu Long Bay’s attractions, including Ba Mun Island, Vung Vieng Fishing Village, and Co To Island. Supported by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric ferries, and a VND1.2 trillion coastal preservation project—Halong Region facilitates eco-conscious travel to Bai Tu Long Bay, a premier sustainable destination.

Bai Tu Long Bay, located 180 km northeast of Hanoi, is accessible via various eco-friendly transportation options. Most travelers depart from Hanoi’s Old Quarter or Noi Bai International Airport, reaching key ports like Hon Gai or Van Don for cruises or ferries to the bay. Below are the main sustainable transport options, including costs, travel times, and environmental considerations, optimized for a seamless journey.

1. Shuttle Bus (Eco-Friendly Option)

• Description: Comfortable, air-conditioned shuttle buses operated by companies like Hoang Khoi Limousine or Cua Ong Limousine offer shared rides from Hanoi’s Old Quarter to Hon Gai or Van Don ports, often with minimal emissions due to modern fleets. Ideal for budget travelers seeking sustainability.

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

• Cost: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND) one-way per person, depending on the operator and season.

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

• Sustainability: Many operators use fuel-efficient vehicles, reducing carbon footprints. Book with companies prioritizing eco-friendly practices.

• How to Book: Reserve through Legend Travel Group’s eco-tour packages or online platforms like 12Go for trusted operators.

• Tip: Opt for early morning departures (6:00–8:00 AM) to align with cruise schedules, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Eco-Cruise ($95–$140).

2. Private Car or Limousine (Flexible & Comfortable)

• Description: Private cars or luxury limousines (e.g., Indochina Go or D’Car Limousine) offer door-to-door service from Hanoi to Hon Gai or Van Don ports, ideal for groups or those seeking privacy. Many operators offer hybrid or low-emission vehicles for sustainability.

• Travel Time: 2.5 hours via the 5B Highway, the fastest route.

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

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

• Sustainability: Choose operators with fuel-efficient or hybrid vehicles to minimize emissions. Request eco-friendly options when booking.

• How to Book: Arrange through Legend Travel Group’s eco-tour packages or trusted providers like Hanoi Transport Service.

• Tip: Customize stops for eco-friendly attractions like local markets en route, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Discovery Tour ($90–$130).

3. Seaplane (Luxury & Scenic)

• Description: Hai Au Aviation operates scenic seaplane flights from Noi Bai International Airport to Tuan Chau Marina, offering breathtaking aerial views of Bai Tu Long Bay. From Tuan Chau, a short transfer (30 minutes, $5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND) reaches Hon Gai or Van Don ports. A premium but low-impact option.

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

• Cost: $400 (10,000,000 VND) one-way per person; $700 (17,500,000 VND) round-trip.

• Departure Points: Noi Bai Airport (Lobby E, Terminal 1) to Tuan Chau Marina, then transfer to Hon Gai/Van Don.

• Sustainability: Seaplanes have a lower per-passenger carbon footprint for short distances compared to multiple car trips. Limited flights reduce environmental impact.

• How to Book: Reserve directly with Hai Au Aviation or through Legend Travel Group’s luxury eco-tour packages.

• Tip: Book early for peak seasons (March–May, September–November) to secure seats, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Luxury Cruise ($250–$400).

4. Bus + Ferry (Budget & Adventurous)

• Description: Take a shuttle bus from Hanoi to Cai Rong Port in Van Don, then a high-speed ferry to islands like Quan Lan or Co To, accessing Bai Tu Long Bay’s outer reaches. Ideal for independent travelers exploring less-touristed areas.

• Travel Time: 3–4 hours (bus to Cai Rong) + 30–90 minutes (ferry), totaling 3.5–5.5 hours.

• Cost: Bus: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND) one-way; Ferry: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND) one-way to Quan Lan/Co To. Total ~$15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

• Departure Points: Hanoi (My Dinh or Gia Lam stations) to Cai Rong Port, then ferries to Quan Lan or Co To.

• Sustainability: Shared buses and ferries reduce individual carbon footprints. Choose operators with modern, fuel-efficient fleets.

• How to Book: Book bus tickets via 12Go or local stations; ferries at Cai Rong Port or through Legend Travel Group’s island-hopping tours.

• Tip: Check ferry schedules in advance, as they vary seasonally, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Island Explorer ($120–$250).

5. Motorbike Rental (Adventurous & Independent)

• Description: Rent a motorbike in Hanoi for a scenic ride to Hon Gai or Van Don ports, offering flexibility to explore coastal routes. Note: Foreign visitors require an International Driving Permit or Vietnamese license, and this option is best for experienced riders due to traffic conditions.

• Travel Time: 3–4 hours, depending on stops and route (e.g., 5B Highway or National Road 18).

• Cost: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND) for underbone bikes; $10–$15/day (250,000–375,000 VND) for scooters, plus fuel (~$5 or 125,000 VND). Deposit and passport copy required.

• Departure Points: Hanoi rental shops (Old Quarter or West Lake) to Hon Gai/Van Don ports.

• Sustainability: Choose fuel-efficient bikes to reduce emissions. Avoid overloading to maintain efficiency.

• How to Book: Rent from reputable shops like Tigit Motorbikes or through Legend Travel Group’s adventure packages.

• Tip: Plan stops at eco-friendly cafes along the 5B Highway, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Adventure Tour ($150–$300).

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

• Description: Most Bai Tu Long Bay cruises, especially eco-friendly ones, include round-trip transfers from Hanoi to Hon Gai or Van Don ports via low-emission limousines or shuttle buses. This seamless option minimizes hassle and maximizes sustainability.

• Travel Time: 2.5–3.5 hours (transfer) + cruise duration (2D1N or 3D2N).

• 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 Bai Tu Long Bay.

• Sustainability: Operators like Indochina Junk use electric boats and waste-reduction practices, aligning with UNESCO’s conservation goals.

• How to Book: Reserve through Legend Travel Group’s eco-tour packages for trusted operators like Dragon Legend or Treasure Junk.

• Tip: Choose cruises with eco-certifications for minimal environmental impact, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Eco-Cruise ($95–$140).

Below is a breakdown of approximate costs for a sustainable trip to Bai Tu Long Bay, including transportation and related expenses:

• 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.

  • Bus + Ferry: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND) one-way.

  • Motorbike Rental: $5–$15/day (125,000–375,000 VND) + fuel ($5 or 125,000 VND).

  • Eco-Cruise with Transfers: $80–$350 (2,000,000–8,750,000 VND) for 2D1N or 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).

• Food and Drinks:

  • Street Food (e.g., Bánh Gật Gù, Seafood): $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).

• Activities:

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

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

  • Kayaking: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

  • Cooking Class: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 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: Save with eco-homestays and shared transport, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Eco-Tour ($95–$140).

• Book Early: Reserve transportation and eco-tours via Legend Travel Group (sales@legendtravelgroup.com, WhatsApp +84825862222) 1–2 months in advance for peak seasons (March–May, September–November) or festive periods like Christmas.

• Packing for Climate:

  • Spring/Autumn: Lightweight clothing, hat, SPF 50+ sunscreen ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND).

  • Summer: Lightweight raincoat ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND), waterproof bag, umbrella.

  • Winter: Layers, warm jacket, scarf for cooler evenings.

  • Year-Round: Reusable water bottle, mosquito repellent ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).

• Sustainability: Choose operators with eco-friendly practices (e.g., low-emission vehicles, waste reduction); 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.

• Safety: Secure valuables on cruises; wear life jackets while kayaking; check summer forecasts for typhoons.

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly for 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 for outdoor activities.

Our sustainable tours include seamless transportation from Hanoi, ensuring an eco-conscious journey to Bai Tu Long Bay:

• Bai Tu Long Bay Explorer (2D1N, $95–$140/person): Overnight cruise to Thien Canh Son Cave, Vung Vieng Fishing Village, and kayaking with limousine transfers from Hanoi. Includes guide, meals, and eco-transfers.

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

• Bai Tu Long Bay Heritage Cruise (2D1N, $100–$150/person): Vung Vieng Fishing Village, Cai De Cave, and Mid-Autumn Festival (seasonal) 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 Minh Chau Beach with eco-transfers. Includes snacks and guide.

• Bai Tu Long Bay Luxury-Tour (3D2N, $250–$400/person): Seaplane transfer, luxury cruise to Ba Sing 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!

Bai Tu Long Bay, a pristine UNESCO treasure in Halong Region, is easily accessible from Hanoi via eco-friendly transportation options like shuttle buses, private cars, seaplanes, or cruises with included transfers. With travel times as short as 1.5 hours and costs starting at $10, reaching this serene bay is both convenient and affordable. Whether you choose a budget bus or a luxury seaplane, Legend Travel Group’s Bai Tu Long Bay Tours ensure an eco-conscious journey, blending seamless travel with authentic exploration of Bai Tu Long Bay’s karsts, beaches, and fishing villages. Don’t wait—browse our curated eco-tours and book your Bai Tu Long Bay Travel adventure today!
Ready to sail through Bai Tu Long Bay’s untouched waters? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and discover Vietnam’s coastal gem!

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.

By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group