Getting Around Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Globetrotter

16 May 2023 - 4 min read

Visiting Vietnam is incomplete without visiting Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with thousands of stunning islands. There are around 1,969 small islands, and some of them are islands formed from limestone mountains.

Not only locals but many foreign tourists also want to enjoy its natural beauty. Many fun activities seem endless for you to try with friends or family.

Transportation in Ha Long Bay

The best way that you can choose to surround the expanse of a cluster of islands is by boat. You can try many cruise packages to feel the excitement of traveling from one island to another.

Even so, many transportation options can be used to explore Ha Long Bay, primarily overland. Check out the following considerations so you can get around effortlessly.

1. Boat

How to travel by boat in Ha Long Bay: Come to several harbors or boat docks, then choose the boat you want to rent. The charterer will offer daily tour packages or rent a boat for just your group for a few hours. Cai Rong, Halong City, Haiphong, and Tuan Chau Marina are the most popular departure points.

Types of boats in Ha Long Bay: You should consider choosing the cruise package to suit your wishes and vacation budget. There are types to choose from; day (sailing for about 1 hour with passengers from other groups), midrange, and luxury cruises. The difference is the facilities and services; it’s essential to understand each package first.

Rates for sailing in Ha Long Bay: Choose a reasonable sailing package rate because each provider offers different prices. You need to pay VND 715.000 per hour for a boat rental package with a capacity of 20 people. Cruise packages with more complete facilities can reach VND 835.000 or join other tourist groups. This combined group day tour package costs around VND 1.120.000 per person for a 4 to 6-hour cruise.

Tips for boating in Ha Long Bay: What's unique is that you can still choose a departure point outside the Ha Long Bay area. One is Hanoi, so it's effortless if you've just returned to the site. Make sure to find information about this means of transportation so you understand when you need it. You also need sufficient research to determine the rental provider's or tour operator's service quality.

2. Taxi

Taxi fare in Ha Long Bay: Taxi fare is usually VND 5,000 for the first kilometer and will increase every kilometer afterward. Not only that, but you can also ask the driver to wait but still have to pay for the waiting time.

Pros: If you want to be practical, it is the best solution because it can be found everywhere. That it becomes the best alternative means of transportation for tourists reluctant to drive a rented car will be beneficial because you may need to learn the route well to get to your destination.

Tips for taxiing in Ha Long Bay: Several well-known operators include Mai Linh, Taxi Group, G7 Taxi, Ha Long Taxi, and Mong Cai Taxi. The most important thing when taking a taxi is ensuring the metered machine operates appropriately. That way, you can pay a reasonable fare according to the distance traveled.

3. Motorcycle Rental

Pros of renting a motorbike in Ha Long Bay: There is little public transportation that you can find around Ha Long Bay. So you can rent a motorbike (xe máy) to get around more freely. That way, you can visit exciting destinations that cannot be reached by car or bus. The fun part is you can escape the heavy traffic for a comfortable vacation.

Motorcycle rental rates in Ha Long Bay: Motorcycle rental rates may vary, depending on the type of motorbike and the condition in general. Generally, motorbike rental rates range from VND 70,000 to VND 100,000 for a 6-12 hour rental. However, this rate can vary depending on the rental provider and other complementary packages offered.

Tips for renting a motorbike in Ha Long Bay: Research in-depth to get the best rental provider. Pick one near the hotel to assist mobility or ask for rental references. Check every part of the motorbike to see whether it functions properly. Remember to bring driving documents such as international driving licenses from your country of origin.

4. Bicycle

How to rent a bicycle in Ha Long Bay? You can find bicycle rental service providers by searching the internet or viewing galleries on their social media. But if you want it more accessible, ask the hotel staff or residents around you. That way, you can get the best recommendations directly from experience and accurate testimonials.

Types of bicycles that you can try: Later, you will be faced with a choice of 2 types of bikes: semi-automatic and automatic. Choose the type of bicycle according to the distance and road conditions you will pass.

Bicycle rental rates in Ha Long Bay: The bicycle rental rates offered certainly vary depending on the policies of each rental provider. The type of bicycle affects the rental price because it is also related to the comfort you get. The price range for a fixed bicycle rental usually ranges from VND 100,000 to 150,000 daily.

Even though there is less public transportation than in other big cities, don't worry about visiting Ha Long Bay. You can still get around comfortably using the transportation options mentioned in this review.

Immediately plan a vacation with loved ones, be it a partner or family, to visit Ha Long Bay. Enjoy its natural beauty by going around using the preferred mode of transportation according to your taste.

Book a Flight Today