Tuan Chau Ferry Schedule 2026: The Complete Guide for Travelers
Planning a trip from the magnificent Halong Bay to the wild beauty of Cat Ba Island? Taking the ferry is not just a mode of transport; it is a scenic journey through the heritage site itself. However, finding the exact Tuan Chau Ferry Schedule can be confusing due to seasonal changes.
In this guide, Cat Ba Discovery provides the most up-to-date timetable, ticket prices, and essential tips for the Tuan Chau to Cat Ba ferry route in 2026.
⚠️ Important: Ferry vs. Speedboat (Don’t Get Confused!)
Many travelers mistake the Ferry (Phà) for the Speedboat (Tàu Cao Tốc). Here is the difference:
- Ferry (The focus of this guide): Big, slow vessel. Carries passengers, motorbikes, cars, and buses. It takes about 45-50 minutes. Best for sightseeing and budget travelers.
- Speedboat/Hydrofoil: Small, fast boat. Only carries passengers (NO vehicles). It takes about 10-15 minutes but is more expensive.
If you are riding a motorbike or driving a car, you MUST take the Ferry.
Current Tuan Chau Ferry Schedule (Updated 2026)
The ferry schedule varies depending on the season (High Season vs. Low Season). Please check the timetable below carefully to plan your trip.
☀️ High Season Schedule (April 16 – September 30)
During the summer, the demand is high, so there are more daily departures to serve tourists.
| Route | Departure Times |
|---|---|
| From Tuan Chau (Halong) to Gia Luan (Cat Ba) | 07:30 – 09:00 – 11:30 – 13:30 – 15:00 |
| From Gia Luan (Cat Ba) to Tuan Chau (Halong) | 09:00 – 11:30 – 13:00 – 15:00 – 16:00 |
❄️ Low Season Schedule (October 1 – April 15)
In winter, the frequency decreases. Make sure you don’t miss the last ferry!
| Route | Departure Times |
|---|---|
| From Tuan Chau (Halong) to Gia Luan (Cat Ba) | 07:30 – 11:30 – 15:00 |
| From Gia Luan (Cat Ba) to Tuan Chau (Halong) | 09:00 – 13:00 – 16:00 |
Note: The schedule may change due to weather conditions (storms, strong winds) or technical maintenance without prior notice. We recommend arriving at the pier at least 30 minutes before departure.
Tuan Chau Ferry Ticket Price 2026
Tickets are sold directly at the ticket counter at Tuan Chau Pier. Here is the detailed price list:
| Vehicle / Passenger Type | Price (VND) | Price (USD – Approx) |
|---|---|---|
| Pedestrian (Passenger only) | 80,000 VND | $3.5 |
| Motorbike (includes driver) | 100,000 VND | $4.5 |
| Car (Under 9 seats) | 480,000 VND | $20 |
| Car (9 to 24 seats) | 520,000 VND | $22 |
*Note: Prices are subject to change by the port authority.
How to get to Tuan Chau Ferry Terminal
From Halong City Center (Bai Chay)
The ferry terminal is located on Tuan Chau Island, about 12-15km from Bai Chay center.
- By Taxi/Grab: Costs about 150,000 – 200,000 VND ($6 – $8).
- By Motorbike: Follow the signs to “Tuan Chau International Marina”. Once you pass the gate of Tuan Chau Island, drive straight for about 2km, look for signs saying “Bến Phà” (Ferry Terminal). It is usually separate from the cruise ship terminal.
(Google Map location: Tuan Chau Ferry Terminal)
What to Expect on the Journey?
The Tuan Chau to Cat Ba ferry route is considered one of the most beautiful ferry routes in Vietnam. Instead of just open sea, the ferry navigates through the iconic limestone karsts of Halong Bay.
- Views: Absolutely stunning. You get a mini Halong Bay tour for just a few dollars!
- Facilities: Basic. There are seats, but most tourists prefer standing on the deck for photos. Restrooms are available but basic.
- Arrival: The ferry docks at Gia Luan Pier. From here, it is another 25km (30-40 minutes drive) to get to Cat Ba Town center.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I buy Tuan Chau Ferry tickets online?
How long does the ferry take from Tuan Chau to Cat Ba?
Is there a bus from Gia Luan Pier to Cat Ba Town?
Yes, there is a local public bus (color: yellow/green) that waits for the ferry arrival. The ticket price is around 30,000 VND. However, it can get very crowded. Taxis are available but cost around 300,000 – 400,000 VND.
We hope this guide helps you plan your journey smoothly. Cat Ba Island awaits with its pristine beaches and lush national park!
Read more: Is Cat Ba Worth Visiting? (Honest Review) | Motorbike Rental in Cat Ba
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