A Complete Guide to Halong Bay Cruise Ports and Terminals

If you’re planning a cruise to explore the stunning beauty of Halong Bay, one of Vietnam’s most popular travel destinations, it’s essential to understand the different cruise ports and terminals available.

Whether you’re arriving by international cruise ship or flying into Vietnam then take a bus or car to Halong Bay, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to arrange a suitable transfer to your cruise.

Let’s dive into the details of each cruise port and terminal in Halong Bay.

A Brief Overview of Halong Bay

Halong Bay is divided into three main parts:

• Halong Bay 
• Bai Tu Long Bay
• Lan Ha Bay – Cat Ba Island

Each area offers unique geological formations, cultural experiences, and breathtaking landscapes. To explore Halong Bay, you can choose a day cruise or an overnight cruise. Each cruise operator will depart from different cruise ports. There are two main cruise ports in Halong Bay

• Halong International Cruise Port
• Tuan Chau International Marina

Halong International Port 

Location

Situated in the central area of Bai Chay, the Halong International Cruise Port is a beloved tourist destination. It is conveniently located near the Sun World Halong Complex and various other amenities, making it easily accessible for visitors. The port has undergone substantial investment, with over 1,000 billion VND dedicated to meeting high standards and offering top-quality facilities.

> Map direction to Halong Port 

Impressive Architecture

The Halong International Cruise Port has garnered attention for its impressive architecture and picturesque setting. Designed by renowned architect Bill Bensley, the port seamlessly blends tradition with modernity.

The terminal building, with its yellow walls and red-brown tiled roofs, resembles a corner of the ancient town of Hoi An. Inside, visitors are greeted by intricate furnishings, wooden columns, and captivating sea-themed paintings.

The terminal offers dining areas, souvenir shops, waiting lounges, and duty-free stores, ensuring a comfortable experience for up to 2,000 passengers simultaneously. The port bridge, spanning over 400m, provides a panoramic view of Halong Bay.

A Gateway to Halong Bay

The Halong International Cruise Port serves as a departure point for exploring the wonders of Halong Bay. From here, visitors can embark on day or night excursions, choosing from a variety of tour companies.

The port has welcomed famous cruise ships such as Westerdam, Mein Chiff, and Celebrity Millennium. With ample resting and dining areas, the port ensures a memorable experience for all travelers.

Tuan Chau International Port

Location 

Located in Ngoc Chau Ward, Tuan Chau, Ha Long, the Tuan Chau International Port offers a convenient gateway to Halong Bay. Situated 12.5 kilometers away from Ha Long City and over 150 kilometers from Hanoi, this modern port attracts both domestic and international tourists. Since its establishment in 2009, the Tuan Chau International Port has become the largest artificial cruise port in Vietnam.

> Map direction to Tuan Chau Port 

Port Facilities

Tuan Chau International Port boasts modern facilities and a European-style design. It consists of two ports: Tuan Chau Port 1 for day cruises and Tuan Chau International Passenger Port (Port 2) for overnight cruises. Port 1 spans 2000 meters, accommodating over 1000 seats in the waiting area and serving up to 3000 passengers during peak seasons.

The operational area covers approximately 8,000 square meters. Port 2, on the other hand, stretches 7 kilometers and can accommodate 2000 moored ships simultaneously, catering to millions of passengers. The port offers ample parking space and is conveniently located near commercial centers, villas, and hotels, and serves as the departure point for cruises exploring Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay.

A Hub for Halong Bay Excursions

The Tuan Chau International Port operates daily, welcoming up to 3 million tourists annually. This bustling area is home to approximately 500 tourist ships, ensuring a wide range of cruise options to cater to every traveler’s preferences. Visitors can choose from day or overnight tours, with various cruise companies offering different price ranges.

While overnight stays are not accommodated at the terminal, tourists can easily find comfortable arrangements within the waiting area of the cruise ships. The port serves as a convenient starting point for unforgettable journeys through Halong Bay.

Facilities and Services

The Tuan Chau International Port offers an array of amenities and services to enhance the visitor experience. Tourists can rent kayaks, arrange for tour guides, book various tours, or even rent private boats for personalized excursions.

The port facilitates seaplane and helicopter arrangements for those seeking a unique perspective of Halong Bay. Basic facilities such as waiting lounges, dining areas, and ATM machines are readily available. Visitors can also enjoy water puppetry performances, specially designed to entertain and captivate tourists.

You can also find other entertainment facilities near Tuan Chau Port: Tuan Chau Resort, King Kong Park, and theme park…

Halong Bay cruise from Tuan Chau Port 

Here is some of the cruise that departs from Tuan Chau Port. The cruise is for one night or 2-night cruise.

Let’s check some recommended cruises with prices for 2 day 1 night cruise.

Cai Lan Port: The Deepest Water Cruise Port in Halong

Situated in Bai Chay Ward, Halong City, Cai Lan Port is a significant international container terminal in northern Vietnam. Originally funded by the Japanese government, this port offers deep waters and modern facilities, making it capable of receiving container ships carrying over 5,000 TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units).

Cai Lan Port is not only a cargo port but has also become a popular destination for international cruises to disembark. However, since the operation of Halong International Port, the international cruise ship will arrive at Halong Port instead of Cai Lan Port.

Hon Gai Pier: The Oldest harbor in Halong City.

Hon Gai Pier, also known as Vinashin Pier, is situated in East Halong and serves as a departure point for cruises to Bai Tu Long Bay. Although smaller than other ports, Hon Gai Pier plays a crucial role in the marine economic development of Quang Ninh province.

The three-story terminal building spans approximately 4,500 square meters and offers a range of facilities for passengers. Now, the boats to Co To Island, Quan Lan Island, and some other routes still depart from Hon Gai Port.

Conclusion

Halong Bay’s cruise terminals, the Halong International Port and Tuan Chau International Port, serve as gateways to the mesmerizing wonders of Halong Bay. These modern and well-equipped facilities provide seamless access to the region’s captivating limestone karsts, caves, and enchanting islands. Whether embarking on a day cruise or overnight excursion, tourists can explore the pristine beauty of Halong Bay, immersing themselves in its natural splendor.

With their convenient locations, impressive architecture, and wide range of amenities and services, these cruise terminals ensure an unforgettable experience for all who venture into this Vietnamese paradise.