Traveling Within Bai Tu Long Bay: Transportation, Activities, Costs & Eco-Tours

Bai Tu Long Bay, a pristine extension of the UNESCO World Heritage Site alongside Halong Bay in Halong Region, Vietnam, offers a tranquil escape with over 600 limestone karsts, crystal-clear waters, and secluded beaches like Minh Chau and Ban Chan. Spanning 157.8 km² across Van Don and Cam Pha, it’s less crowded than Halong Bay, providing an authentic experience with cultural highlights like Vung Vieng Fishing Village, geological marvels like Thien Canh Son Cave, and biodiverse ecosystems within Bai Tu Long National Park, an ASEAN Heritage Garden. Home to rare species such as yellow monkeys and sea cucumbers, listed in Vietnam’s Red Book, 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 a seamless, responsible way to navigate and experience this natural wonder—book your adventure via the links throughout this guide

Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, crafts sustainable Southeast Asia journeys with a focus on environmental and cultural preservation. Our Bai Tu Long Bay tours feature eco-friendly transport—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 explore 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 within Bai Tu Long Bay, a premier sustainable destination.

Exploring Bai Tu Long Bay requires water-based transport, primarily eco-friendly cruises or local boats, as the bay’s 600+ islands are inaccessible by land. Below are the main sustainable transportation options for navigating the bay, including costs and tips for an eco-conscious journey.

1. Eco-Friendly Cruises (Primary Option)

• Description: Electric-powered or low-emission cruise boats, such as those operated by Indochina Junk or Dragon Legend, are the most sustainable way to explore Bai Tu Long Bay, visiting key sites like Dua Islet, Thien Canh Son Cave, and Vung Vieng Fishing Village. Cruises include onboard activities like kayaking and cooking classes.

• Travel Time: 2D1N or 3D2N itineraries, covering 20–50 km daily at a leisurely pace.

• Cost: $80–$200 (2,000,000–5,000,000 VND) for 2D1N; $120–$350 (3,000,000–8,750,000 VND) for 3D2N, including meals, activities, and transfers from Hanoi to Hon Gai or Van Don ports. Luxury options like Essence Grand start at $250 (6,250,000 VND).

• Departure Points: Hon Gai Port (Cam Pha) or Van Don Port (Ao Tien), 180 km from Hanoi.

• Sustainability: Electric boats and waste-reduction practices minimize environmental impact, aligning with UNESCO conservation goals. Choose operators with eco-certifications.

• How to Book: Reserve through Legend Travel Group for trusted operators like Treasure Junk or Swan Cruises, ensuring sustainable practices.

• Tip: Opt for a 3D2N cruise to explore remote areas like Cong Do, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Immersion ($150–$300).

2. Bamboo Boat Tours

• Description: Local fishermen at Vung Vieng Fishing Village offer bamboo boat tours, providing an intimate, low-impact way to explore floating communities and nearby karsts. Guided by residents, these tours support local livelihoods.

• Travel Time: 30–60 minutes, covering 1–2 km around Vung Vieng, 20 km from Hon Gai Port.

• Cost: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND) per person, often included in cruise itineraries.

• Departure Points: Vung Vieng Fishing Village, accessed via cruise stopovers.

• Sustainability: Bamboo boats have minimal environmental impact, and fees directly benefit local communities.

• How to Book: Arranged through cruise operators or Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours.

• Tip: Tip rowers ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND) to support locals, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Heritage Cruise ($100–$150).

3. Kayak Rentals

• Description: Kayaks allow independent exploration of Bai Tu Long Bay’s lagoons, such as Cap La or Vung Ha, offering a zero-emission way to navigate karsts and beaches. Available through cruises or at select ports like Van Don.

• Travel Time: 1–2 hours, covering 2–5 km, depending on paddling speed.

• Cost: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND) per person for 1–2 hours, often included in cruise packages.

• Departure Points: Cruise stopovers (e.g., Cong Dam) or Van Don Port.

• Sustainability: Kayaks are eco-friendly, producing no emissions or noise pollution.

• How to Book: Included in most cruises or rented via Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours.

• Tip: Paddle early morning for calm waters, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Eco-Cruise ($95–$140).

4. Local Ferries to Inhabited Islands

• Description: High-speed ferries connect Cai Rong Port (Van Don) to inhabited islands like Quan Lan or Co To, offering access to beaches and cultural sites within Bai Tu Long Bay. Ideal for independent travelers.

• Travel Time: 30–90 minutes, covering 10–30 km.

• Cost: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND) one-way per person.

• Departure Points: Cai Rong Port, 40 km from Van Don Port.

• Sustainability: Shared ferries reduce individual carbon footprints; choose modern, fuel-efficient vessels.

• How to Book: Purchase tickets at Cai Rong Port or through Legend Travel Group’s island-hopping tours.

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

5. Electric Taxis or Bicycles (On Inhabited Islands)

• Description: On islands like Quan Lan or Co To, electric taxis or bicycle rentals provide eco-friendly transport to beaches, markets, or cultural sites like Cua Ong Temple. Limited to inhabited islands, not the bay itself.

• Travel Time: 10–30 minutes, covering 1–10 km on Quan Lan/Co To.

• Cost: Electric Taxi: $3–$8 (75,000–200,000 VND) per trip; Bicycle Rental: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Departure Points: Quan Lan or Co To ports, accessed via ferries from Cai Rong.

• Sustainability: Electric taxis and bicycles produce zero emissions, supporting Quang Ninh’s green initiatives.

• How to Book: Rent at island ports or arrange through Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours.

• Tip: Cycle early to avoid midday heat, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Discovery ($90–$130).

Bai Tu Long Bay’s pristine landscapes and regulated tourism offer a range of eco-friendly activities, accessible via the above transportation options:

• Eco-Cruise: Sail through karsts on an electric boat, visiting Dua Islet and Thien Canh Son Cave ($80–$200 or 2,000,000–5,000,000 VND).

• Kayaking: Paddle at Cap La or Vung Ha lagoons ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND).

• Bamboo Boat Tours: Explore Vung Vieng Fishing Village with local rowers ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).

• Cave Exploration: Visit Thien Canh Son or Cai De Cave ($5 or 125,000 VND entry).

• Cooking Classes: Learn sustainable Vietnamese dishes like banh gat gu on board ($15–$25 or 375,000–625,000 VND).

• Squid Fishing: Try eco-friendly night fishing (included in select cruises).

• Cycling on Quan Lan or Co To: Explore coastal paths ($5–$10/day or 125,000–250,000 VND).

• Swimming at Minh Chau Beach: Relax on pristine sands (free).

Tip: Combine activities via a 2D1N or 3D2N cruise for a comprehensive experience, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Eco-Cruise ($95–$140).

To ensure a comfortable and eco-friendly visit, pack thoughtfully based on the season and 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.

• 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/Cruising: Water shoes, quick-dry towel, and a dry bag for electronics.

  • Cycling: Backpack, insect repellent ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND), and a small first-aid kit.

• Cultural Respect: Modest clothing (long pants, covered shoulders) for fishing villages or cultural sites.

• Miscellaneous: Camera or smartphone for photography, power bank, and offline maps (Maps.me) for navigation.

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

Below are approximate costs for transportation and activities within Bai Tu Long Bay, ensuring an eco-conscious trip:

• Transportation:

  • Eco-Cruise (2D1N): $80–$200 (2,000,000–5,000,000 VND).

  • Eco-Cruise (3D2N): $120–$350 (3,000,000–8,750,000 VND).

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

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

  • Ferry to Quan Lan/Co To: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND) one-way.

  • Electric Taxi (on islands): $3–$8 (75,000–200,000 VND) per trip.

  • Bicycle Rental: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Activities:

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

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

  • Squid Fishing: Free (included in cruises).

• 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: $15–$30 (375,000–750,000 VND).

  • Mid-Range Traveler: $40–$80 (1,000,000–2,000,000 VND).

  • Luxury Traveler: $100–$250 (2,500,000–6,250,000 VND).

Tip: Choose an all-inclusive cruise to simplify costs, 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 (March–May, September–November) or festive periods like Christmas to avoid high prices or scams.

• Sustainability: Select operators with eco-certifications (e.g., Indochina Junk); avoid single-use plastics 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–September).

• 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 offer curated experiences with eco-friendly transportation within Bai Tu Long Bay, tailored to its attractions and climate:

• Bai Tu Long Bay Explorer (2D1N, $95–$140/person): Overnight cruise to Thien Canh Son Cave, Vung Vieng Fishing Village, and kayaking via electric boat, 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 Cong Do 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) via electric boat 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 Island Explorer (3D2N, $150–$300/person): Kayaking, Co To Island, and Ba Mun rainforest hike with ferry transfers. 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 serene UNESCO-recognized treasure in Quang Ninh Province, 160 km from Hanoi, offers eco-friendly transportation options like electric cruises ($80–$550, 2,000,000–13,750,000 VND), bamboo boat tours ($5–$15, 125,000–375,000 VND), and kayaking ($10–$20, 250,000–500,000 VND) to explore its stunning karsts, pristine beaches like Cap La Island, and cultural hubs like Vung Vieng Fishing Village, drawing thousands yearly. These sustainable modes, supported by low-emission engines and community-led conservation, ensure minimal environmental impact. Legend Travel Group’s Quang Ninh Tours provide a responsible, immersive Quang Ninh Travel experience, featuring curated itineraries with visits to Thien Canh Son Cave, Cong Do Area, and local cuisine like chả mực ($1–$3, 25,000–75,000 VND). Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to sail through Bai Tu Long Bay’s untouched waters? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse yourself in 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.

Sources:

• Bai Tu Long Bay Transportation Information: vietnammarveltravel.com, indochina-junk.com, swancruiseshalong.com, halongbaytours.com, viator.com, vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn