Recommended days to visit Cat Ba Island. Four days should be more than enough to do everything. One or two to do the boat tour around Halong Bay, which is the minimum, another day to visit around the island, the national park and the hospital cave, and another if you want to visit the beaches or the monkey island. These include Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay which can be accessed via a Halong Bay Tour from Cat Ba, one of Vietnam’s hidden gems. My final decision was to take a tour from Cat Ba vs Halong Bay. I wasn’t too hung up on seeing THE Ha Long Bay so I decided on a Cat Ba Halong Bay cruise leaving from the island instead. The Tuan Chau ferry is often closed at 15:00. Thus, there is no chance to reach Cat Ba Island after 15:00 every day from Halong Bay by boat. Where to stay. Some popular hotels in Ca Bat Island are Cat Ba Beach Resort, The Whisper of Nature Bangalow, Sunrise Resort, Cat Ba Palace Hotel, Hai Long Hotel Cat Ba, and Hung Long Harbour Hotel Cat Ba Answer 1 of 11: Hi, I want to do the bay, not sure wether to do Cat Ba or Ha Long Bay. I'm going in september and heard it was prohibited to take a swim? Also, i;m with a motorcycle so I don't have to start in Hanoi: which place should I ride to to Cat Ba Island, lying in the Gulf of Tonkin, off the northeast coast of Vietnam, is a favourite travel destination for foreign and domestic tourists alike. Roughly equidistant from two of northern Vietnam’s largest industrial cities – Hai Phong (to the west) and Ha Long (to the north) – Cat Ba Island is, nonetheless, one of the country’s star natural attractions, and part of the world-famous Halong Bay. 4sBAFHB. Cat Ba to Halong Bay A Journey Through Northern Vietnam's Stunning Landscapes As you embark on an unforgettable journey from Cat Ba to Halong Bay, discover the rich history and natural beauty of Cat Ba Island before setting off on an adventure through the awe-inspiring Halong Bay. Paradise Vietnam's comprehensive guide will take you through the various aspects of this enchanting Halong Bay tour from Cat Ba and highlight some must-visit attractions along the way. The Beginning of Cat Ba Island Cat Ba Island, the largest of the 367 islands that form the Cat Ba Archipelago, has a rich and varied history. Inhabited for thousands of years, the island has borne witness to the ebb and flow of various civilizations, including the ancient Viet people who lived there over 6,000 years ago. Its strategic location and abundant natural resources have made Cat Ba Island an important cultural, economic, and military site throughout Vietnam's history. Cat Ba Island is a popular tourist destination today, attracting visitors with its lush green landscapes, pristine beaches, and diverse flora and fauna. The island's unique karst formations, similar to those found in Halong Bay, create a dramatic and visually stunning backdrop for a truly unforgettable experience. Cat Ba island Halong Bay A Natural Wonder Halong Bay, one of Vietnam's most iconic and cherished natural wonders, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its breathtaking beauty and unique geological features. The bay is adorned with nearly 2,000 limestone islets and karst formations, rising dramatically from the emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin. The name "Halong" translates to "descending dragon," with local legends attributing the creation of the bay to dragons sent by the gods to protect Vietnam from invaders. Find out more Hanoi Airport to Halong Bay The ethereal beauty of Halong Bay has inspired countless poets, artists, and photographers throughout the centuries, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Sunset on Halong Bay The journey from Cat Ba to Halong Bay offers an unforgettable experience, with breathtaking natural landscapes, picturesque islands, and a myriad of activities to explore. Here's a detailed description of the journey, covering transportation, attractions, and other essential information. The journey by boat The most popular and scenic way to travel from Cat Ba to Halong Bay is by boat. Speedboats and ferries ply the route regularly, taking visitors across the serene waters and through the stunning karst landscapes. The journey, which takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, offers ample opportunities to marvel at the breathtaking scenery and take in the tranquility of the surrounding environment. The journey by road For those who prefer to travel by land, a combination of bus and ferry is available to take you from Cat Ba to Halong Bay. The journey involves a bus ride to the ferry terminal, a ferry crossing to the mainland, and another bus ride to Halong City. While the journey may be longer and less scenic than the boat option, it provides an alternative for travelers who wish to explore the mainland on their way to Halong Bay. Explore further Da Nang to Ha Long Bay Best Routes and Travel Tips Popular Halong Bay cruise - Paradise Vietnam Boasting over 16 years of experience operating cruises and hotels in Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay, Paradise Vietnam has gained a wealth of expertise in the field. As one of the few establishments in the Halong area chosen to ensure safety and hygiene standards during the Covid-19 pandemic, guests can feel secure and cared for during their visit. The culinary offerings at Paradise Vietnam's floating restaurants are prepared according to menus developed and trained by chefs well-trained by Michelin chefs, providing an unforgettable and exquisite dining experience for travelers. Beach Dinner Unique to Paradise Vietnam, our cruises feature private ports. Unlike other cruises requiring tender boats to transfer guests from the mainland, Paradise Vietnam enables passengers to directly board the moored vessels at the port, embarking on their exciting journey without delay. The Paradise Express high-speed ferry is well-known for its safety and comfort, offering passengers the fastest and most comfortable transportation option between Tuan Chau Pier and Gia Luan Pier on Cat Ba Island. The journey only takes 15 minutes, significantly shorter than traditional ferry trips. Notably, the Paradise Express is equipped with a camera system for the journey and can operate in harsh weather conditions, ensuring passengers' peace of mind. Recommended reading Memorable Experience Journey into Islands in Halong Bay Not only is it safe, but Paradise Express is also a luxurious and sophisticated high-speed ferry with 5-star service quality. From a distance, the vessel appears sturdy and stable. Its body is made of aluminum alloy, a lightweight and durable material that enables the ferry to move quickly. Inside, passengers can enjoy a large-screen TV throughout the journey. Additionally, all seats are covered with premium leather for the comfort of the elderly and young children. The Paradise Express high-speed ferry is perfectly operated with a double-hull structure. In Vietnam, quite a lot of passenger journeys use single-hull high-speed boats, which operate with high energy costs and are not safe and aesthetically pleasing. The appearance of a two-hull ship is the optimal solution because it can overcome all the above disadvantages. Paradise Express Tuan Chau Cat Ba Currently, Paradise Express high-speed ferry is in operation. Paradise Express has a seating capacity of 198 passengers. With 10 trips per day from Tuan Chau Pier and Gia Luan Pier, the diverse departure times cater to various schedules. The earliest departure from Tuan Chau Pier is at 8 AM, and the latest is at 4 PM. From Gia Luan Pier, the earliest departure is at 9 AM, and the latest is at 5 PM. Since Paradise Express does not have a round trip, there is only a trip from Ha Long to Cat Ba. If you want to return from Cat Ba to Ha Long, you will go by boat or by road. Popular Halong Bay cruise - Paradise Express Adventures in Halong Bay Rock climbing in Halong Bay Halong Bay is a haven for rock climbers, offering a variety of challenging routes set amidst the dramatic limestone cliffs. With experienced guides and well-maintained equipment, climbers of all skill levels can experience the thrill of scaling these majestic formations while taking in the breathtaking scenery. Rock climbing in Halong Bay Kayaking in Halong Bay Paddling through the emerald waters of Halong Bay, weaving between the towering limestone islets, is an unforgettable experience. Kayaking provides an up-close and personal encounter with the bay's mesmerizing beauty, allowing you to explore secluded beaches and mysterious caves that are inaccessible by larger boats. Guided kayaking tours are available, or you can rent a kayak and embark on a self-guided adventure. Kayaking in Halong Bay Swimming in Halong Bay The warm, inviting waters of Halong Bay provide the perfect setting for a refreshing swim. Many cruise operators and tour companies include stops at pristine beaches and tranquil coves, where you can take a dip and relax amidst the stunning surroundings. The clear waters also offer excellent snorkeling opportunities, allowing you to observe the vibrant marine life that calls the bay home. Learn more Experience Lan Ha Bay Cruise - A Hidden Gem of Vietnam Swimming in Halong Bay Exploring Cat Ba Island Cat Ba National Park Covering more than half of Cat Ba Island, Cat Ba National Park is a nature lover's paradise. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including the critically endangered Cat Ba langur, as well as numerous bird and butterfly species. A visit to the park provides the opportunity to explore its lush forests, hike through its rugged landscapes, and trek to the summit of Ngu Lam Peak for breathtaking panoramic views of the island. Cat Ba National Park Cat Ba Island's beaches Cat Ba Island is blessed with numerous picturesque beaches, each offering a serene and idyllic retreat. The three most popular beaches, named Cat Co 1, Cat Co 2, and Cat Co 3, are located within walking distance of Cat Ba Town and boast golden sands, clear waters, and spectacular views of the surrounding karst formations. For a more secluded experience, venture further afield to explore some of the island's lesser-known beaches and coves. Cat Ba Island's beaches Cat Ba's caves and grottos The island's unique geology has resulted in the formation of numerous caves and grottos, many of which can be explored on guided tours. Hospital Cave, a former secret bomb-proof hospital used during the Vietnam War, offers a fascinating glimpse into the island's history, while Trung Trang Cave and Hung Cuong Cave showcase mesmerizing natural formations and enchanting underground chambers. Hospital Cave - Cat Ba Island Conclusion The journey from Cat Ba to Halong Bay takes you through some of Northern Vietnam's most stunning landscapes, offering countless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and discovery. From the rich history and natural beauty of Cat Ba Island to the ethereal wonders of Halong Bay, this unforgettable journey is sure to captivate your senses and leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. If you want to have a fast cruise experience from Ha Long to Cat Ba you can enjoy your visit to Cat Ba island to the fullest, please contact Paradise Vietnam for more information, we are pleased to serve you. Related articles Explore Cat Ba beauty Book Your Perfect Cat Ba Cruise today Cat Ba Island in Vietnam is the perfect place as a stopover for a Halong Bay tour. You will escape Hanoi and have the possibility to arrange a cheaper Halong bay tour. Cat Ba island is a chilled-out place with a few small, though nice beaches, a rich history, and there are some spots with good nightlife, which are pretty cheap! Things to do How to visit Where to stay Hi, we're Nick & Hannah!We hope you're enjoying our free travel guides & tips! If so, please consider supporting our work. 🤗 Click here During the wars, the island was a strategic lookout point. During the bombing, local residents hide among the island’s many caves. The cave hospital is one of the impressive Halong Bay tour from Cat Ba IslandWe’ve booked a day tour at Cat Ba Ventures $25, lunch + water, which was a good company. They will visit less touristy areas that are maybe even more beautiful than the famous part of Halong 8 AM, you’ll take the boat from Cat Ba town through the floating villages, cruise through Lan Ha Bay, and enjoy the hundreds of limestone Halong Bay tour includes snorkeling gear, dry bags, kayaking, a great lunch and swimming at a deserted beach, all entrance fees into Halong Bay, and an English-speaking local to do on Cat Ba IslandBesides from the Halong Bay tours, Cat Ba Island has some more things to offer Visit a pearl farmRent a scooter and explore the the Canon fort the old defense baseGo get the cheapest food at a market in townChill at the few beachesVisit the cave hospitalHave a great night outFrom Hanoi, you will have to take the bus to Haiphong, which takes around hours. From there, take the ferry to Cat Ba and the bus to Cat Ba town 1 hour. The ferry costs you 70K Dong ~ $3 for a one-way ticket. The boat timetable will change so now and to stay on Cat Ba islandMake sure to stay near the pier in Cat Ba Town; this is where the food and drinks are in Cat Ba. We’ve picked our two favorite places. Did you know that … When you purchase something through our links we earn a small fee. However, you still pay the same. Win-win! 20/02/2023 Last updated February 20, 2023 Level Contributor 1 post 5 reviews 5 helpful votes Ha Long Bay vs Cat Ba where to start 6 years ago Hi, I want to do the bay, not sure wether to do Cat Ba or Ha Long Bay. I'm going in september and heard it was prohibited to take a swim? Also, i;m with a motorcycle so I don't have to start in Hanoi which place should I ride to to book a tour? Level Contributor 1,585 posts 3 reviews 5 helpful votes 1. Re Ha Long Bay vs Cat Ba where to start 6 years ago Cruises on Halong bay is more well-equipped than those on Cat Ba island. Most cruises starts their program from Hanoi, so Hanoi is the best place to book a tour. Or you can book it online. Level Contributor 298 posts 11 reviews 5 helpful votes 2. Re Ha Long Bay vs Cat Ba where to start 6 years ago If you want to take a cruise tour, you should choose Halong. I find that Halong bay tours has quite a few cruise tours. However, Cat Ba is also very beautiful with unspoiled beaches and stunning landscapes. If coming Cat Ba, you may visit Lan Ha bay, Monkey island. Level Contributor 68 posts 4 reviews 3. Re Ha Long Bay vs Cat Ba where to start 6 years ago A cruise seems to be suitable with traveling Halong bay. If you want to travel with a motorbike, you can visit Cat Ba island. Drive to the ferry and bring your motorbike to this island, then you can discover Cat Ba island with it. 4. Re Ha Long Bay vs Cat Ba where to start 6 years ago This post was determined to be inappropriate by the Tripadvisor community and has been removed. Level Contributor 108 posts 18 reviews 10 helpful votes 5. Re Ha Long Bay vs Cat Ba where to start 6 years ago Hi, You have motobike so I think Cat Ba island is better! You may drive to Tuan chau then take ferry to Gia Luan harbor Or Drive to Dinh Vu port Hai Phong, then take speed boat to Cai Vieng harbor, drive to Cat Ba town. Now u can be free to explore Cannon fort, hospital cave, national park, beach then do Lan Ha bay boat tour with kayaking and snorkeling Hope this help Phuong HaiPhongTours 6. Re Ha Long Bay vs Cat Ba where to start 6 years ago This post was determined to be inappropriate by the Tripadvisor community and has been removed. Level Contributor 10 posts 8 reviews 3 helpful votes 7. Re Ha Long Bay vs Cat Ba where to start 6 years ago Really easy to book a tour on arrival on cat ba too, loads of options. We went a few weeks ago and the bay was pretty quiet, one area with a bit of rubbish but generally clear seas which was the two reasons we wanted to avoid ha long bay. Cat Ba would be pretty cool to explore on the bike too and should be easy enough on ferry which is cheaper than the hydrofoil. Not sure about not being able to swim in September, maybe email a tour company and take what they say with a pinch of salt bearing in mind they might say what you want to hear. 8. Re Ha Long Bay vs Cat Ba where to start 6 years ago Hi!! I'm going for Halong Bay from Hochiminh and will be dropping at Hai Phong Airport. Where's the place i should book my hostel at? Cat ba? or anywhere else? I'm confused..is haiphong = cat ba? 4 posts 9. Re Ha Long Bay vs Cat Ba where to start 5 years ago Hi, i have a question, I cant decide in between going on a cruise to Ha long or just going to Cat ba spend time on the island and from there take a boat to board around ha long, any suggestions? Thanks Sebastian Level Contributor 2 posts 4 reviews 10. Re Ha Long Bay vs Cat Ba where to start 5 years ago sebastianburd Did you get any information on this? Edited 5 years ago Get answers to your questions about Halong Bay Recent Conversations Peony cruises 756 am Halong Bay - Full Day Cruise or Less? Jun 07, 2023 Does anyone know the site ' Jun 05, 2023 Hanoi & halong bay Jun 02, 2023 Nostalgia Cruises Jun 01, 2023 Best 8 hours day cruise halong May 31, 2023 Real 3 Days - 2 Night Cruises May 30, 2023 Halong Bay / Lan Ha 1 nt/2d cruise May 28, 2023 Halong bay cruise full day trip or more? May 25, 2023 1N cruise May 20, 2023 Day Tour Halong Bay - Day trip from Hanoi May 19, 2023 Sun world tips/ reviews pls May 18, 2023 Small boat tour in Cat Ba May 16, 2023 hanoi to Halong May 16, 2023 More Halong Bay Topics Taxi fare between Hanoi and Halong Bay? When is the best time to visit Hanoi and Sapa? A Class Cruise Company Imperial Junk Cruise - some lessons learnt the cheapest decent Halong bay cruise? Galaxy Cruise Ha Long Bay - Ginger Cruise Halong bay by end December Golden Lotus Cruise Halong Bay Cruise, budget backpackers Without a doubt, one of the most popular things to do in Vietnam is to take a Halong Bay cruise. And for good reason; the region is stunning. The views are incredible. You feel like you’re in the middle of a misty magical land away from it all. When you share your photos, everyone is jealous. It’s one of those special places you will never forget. Taking a cruise seems to be the most popular way to explore the area. You just need to show up and everything is taken care of for you. No need to plan anything! After my Halong Bay cruise I stayed at Cat Ba Island and realized it was better suited for me. I like to do things independently and it’s possible to explore Halong Bay using Cat Ba as a base. EXPLORE CAT BA ISLAND ON THESE SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES Cruising, Cat Ba style. Photo by Nicola Marshall. About Cat Ba Island It is the largest island in Halong Bay and there’s enough to keep you busy for days. If sustainable tourism is a concern, nearly half of Cat Ba is a national park. Both its land and the ecosystem in the water is a protected area. Here you’ll find the same small fishing villages tucked in the jagged limestone edges of the island and sandy beaches to welcome newcomers. That said, arriving in Cat Ba can be a bit overwhelming at first. It is the hub for the area, with lots of cheap hotels and tourist agencies selling boat trips and other tours. The city can be crowded with tourists who are on limited time to take one of the tours and move on. Don’t let this put you off. It’s easy to lose the crowds and explore more of the island and its waters. You can kayak the area and see Halong Bay from a completely different perspective, navigating its crevices. Swimming and snorkelling is incredible here. There’s also great hiking, and amazing seafood. GET WELL AND TRULY OFF THE BEATEN PATH ON OUR 11-DAY HIKE, BIKE & KAYAK SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE AROUND NORTHERN VIETNAM. FULL DETAILS HERE. My favourite things to do on Cat Ba Island 1. Hike in the National Park Jungle hikes. Photo by Stephane Bidouze. Half of Cat Ba Island was designated a park in 1986, and in 2004 it became a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. This ensures the flora, fauna and local wildlife will be protected, including an endangered monkey called the Cat Ba Langur. Don’t expect to see one on your hikes though. They are much like the elusive wild sloths in Costa Rica; almost impossible to spot. There are only 60 remaining on the island. Monkey spotting aside, there are great hikes for every fitness level, with well-marked paths so that travellers can explore independently. If you’re feeling adventurous and have head torches check out Trung Trang Cave, which has impressive stalactites. Looking for a big adventure? Trek through the park to Viet Hai fishing village, which has recently developed an eco tourism project. It’s a great way to support locals, the environmental efforts and help maintain traditional customs. RELATED THE CHANGING FACE OF TOURISM IN RURAL VIETNAM 2. Snap the best view of Halong Bay Kayaking around the bay. Photo by Nicola Marshall. If you’re looking for that Instagram-perfect photo of Halong Bay, it is not on a boat. Instead head straight up the lush island hillside to the Cannon Fort. It’s only a 30 minute walk from town but can take longer as you’ll want to stop to see the tunnels, cannons and gun emplacements from the various wars. At the top you’ll get a spectacular view overlooking the bay. If you go later in the day when the fishermen return you’ll also see the fishing boats in Halong Bay dotting the waters. At the top there’s a cafe and small museum. Nothing out of the ordinary, but much welcomed if you need a cool drink. RELATED WHY NINH BINH AND LAN HA BAY SHOULD BE PART OF YOUR VIETNAM TRAVEL PLANS 3. Spend the day on a deserted beach There are a few beaches on Cat Ba Island and which one you go to depends on how you want to spend your day. Tourist agencies sell day trips to busiest beaches, called Cat Bat Beach 1, 2 and 3. But if you came on vacation to escape it all, you can find that too. There are plenty of great beaches with few people on them just a short drive, kayak or hike away. 4. Visit the market Take a short walk outside the town core to reach the local food market. This isn’t a tourist-trap souvenir market but where locals on the island go to get their ingredients daily. 5. Explore the Hospital Cave You cannot visit the country without learning about the Vietnam American War. If you’ve grown up only hearing about it through American media it is fascinating to see the other side. The Hospital Cave is literally a hospital inside a cave that was in use until 1975. It’s best to hire a guide in advance to take you, as there isn’t much information on site with only mannequins throughout to give perspective. RELATED 5 BEAUTIFUL WAYS TO STEP OFF THE BEATEN PATH IN VIETNAM 6. Eat seafood, fresh off the boat If you want to eat pizza or pasta head to Nui Ngoc Street, where everything is in English and international food reigns. But who goes to Vietnam to eat pizza? Head off the main drag for a local dining experience. Photo by Nicola Marshall. Cat Ba is an island of fishermen. They are known for shrimp, clams, octopus and a variety of fish. If you get off the main strip, there are tons of great local spots where you’ll eat fresh Vietnamese seafood dishes for a fraction of the price. The closer you get to the fishing ports, the better the food will be. Curious about Cat Ba? Explore it now on a small group adventure in Vietnam with Intrepid. Check out our range of trips here. Feature photo by Stephane Bidouze via Shutterstock. Cat Ba IslandCat Ba Island VietnamRugged, craggy and jungle-clad Cat Ba, the largest island in Halong Bay, has experienced a tourism surge in recent years. The central hub of Cat Ba Town is now framed by a chain of low-rise concrete hotels along its once-lovely bay, but the rest of the island is largely untouched and as wild as ever. With idyllic Lan Ha Bay just offshore, you'll soon overlook Cat Ba Town's more sightsGuidebooksPurchase our award-winning guidebooks Get to the heart of Cat Ba Island with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

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