Halong Bay Cruise Departure Ports: Tuan Chau, Hon Gai and Got Pier
There are 3 major ports that cruises depart from: Tuan Chau (the largest), Hon Gai, and Got Pier.
Overview
Several popular departure ports for Halong Bay Cruises exist in 2025. Most cruises continue to depart from Tuan Chau Harbor, with options from Hon Gai and Got Pier as well. Travelers should confirm their departure port before arranging transport.
Most cruises provide transfer services from accommodations to the departure pier. After arrival, guests check in and are offered refreshments while waiting to board their cruise.
Tuan Chau Harbor - The Largest Pier in Halong Bay
For travelers planning a cruise to Halong Bay, Tuan Chau Harbor remains the primary departure port. Situated on Tuan Chau Island, it connects to the mainland via a bridge.
As the largest port in Quang Ninh province, Tuan Chau Harbor accommodates both domestic and international vessels, hosting around 2,000 boats. This modern harbor features a well-developed infrastructure with customs offices and numerous tour companies. Visitors can find tax-free shops, restaurants, bars, and comfortable waiting areas.
Location
The drive from Hanoi to Tuan Chau Harbor takes approximately 3 to 3.5 hours. Travelers can opt for a private taxi, bus, or minivan. Many cruises provide complimentary transfers from Hanoi to Halong Bay.
Tuan Chau Harbor is just a 1 to 2-hour drive from Van Don Airport.
Distance
| Distance from | Kilometers | Miles |
|---|---|---|
| Hanoi | 153 km | 95 miles |
| Halong Bay | 31 km | 19 miles |
| Van Don Airport | 65 km | 40 miles |
| Noi Bai Airport | 170 km | 105 miles |
| Cat Bi Airport (Hai Phong) | 44 km | 27 miles |
Cruises that depart from Tuan Chau Pier:
NOTE: Cruise guests are advised to book tickets in advance to avoid scams that target unaware tourists with inflated cruise prices. It's best to secure your Halong Bay cruise online or at agencies in Hanoi.
Hon Gai Pier
Hon Gai Pier remains a key departure point for cruises to Bai Tu Long Bay. This quaint pier, renovated in 2018, accommodates up to two international cruise ships concurrently, despite its smaller footprint compared to Tuan Chau Harbor.
Located in East Halong near Bai Chay Bridge, Hon Gai Pier connects Bai Chay Island with the mainland.
Those waiting for cruises can find a few nearby cafes, enjoying a less crowded atmosphere than Tuan Chau Harbor.
Traveling from Hanoi to Hon Gai Pier takes approximately 3 to 3.5 hours by car.
The journey from Van Don Airport to Hon Gai Pier is just over 1 hour.
Cruises operating from Hon Gai include: Swan Cruises, Amira Cruises, Athena Cruises, and Signature Cruise.
Got Pier
Got Pier, located in Hai Phong City, remains a key access point to Cat Ba Island. While smaller than Tuan Chau Harbor and Hon Ga Pier, it serves many cruises heading to Lan Ha Bay.
Location:
Got Pier (Google map)
To reach Got Pier from Hai Phong City, travelers must first get to Dinh Vu port by car or bus, then take a 45-minute ferry to Ninh Tiep, followed by a quick transfer to Got Pier.
Cruises departing from Got Pier:
Travelers from Hanoi can take a shuttle bus or private taxi to Got Pier, which takes around 3 hours.
Last updated: January 01, 2025
