In recent years, Huu Lung (especially the Huu Lien area in Lạng Sơn Province) and Cat Ba Island have emerged as two of the most exciting rock climbing destinations in northern Vietnam.
Huu Lung is known for its wild limestone cliffs, long multi-pitch routes, and quiet rural atmosphere, while Cat Ba offers a well-developed climbing scene, sea views, and a unique combination of climbing, beach time, and island life.
Because of this, many international climbers travel back and forth between Huu Lung and Cat Ba during their Vietnam trips. However, transportation between these two places is still limited and not well documented, especially for travelers who do not speak Vietnamese.
A Complete Transport from Huu Lung to Cat Ba Guide for International Rock Climbers
This guide explains all realistic transport options, including prices, schedules, and practical advice.
>>>Read more : Where to Stay in Huu Lung (Huu Lien Area)
1. Distance and Travel Time
Distance: approximately 210–230 km (130–145 miles)
Total travel time: 5–6 hours, depending on traffic and ferry waiting time
Typical route:
Huu Lung → Hải Phòng → Ferry → Cat Ba Island
Due to the long distance and ferry crossing, motorbikes are not recommended, especially for travelers carrying climbing equipment.
2. Transportation Options from Huu Lung to Cat Ba
Because of the distance and limited infrastructure, there are only two practical ways to travel between Huu Lung and Cat Ba.
Option 1: Private Car or Taxi (Best for Climbers)
This is the most popular and reliable option for international climbers.
Why choose a private car?
Flexible departure time
Door-to-door service
Easy to transport ropes, quickdraws, harnesses, crash pads
Ideal for 2–6 people traveling together
Route
Huu Lung → Hải Phòng → Gót Ferry → Cat Ba Island
(Some drivers may go via Hanoi depending on traffic.)
Cost
2,000,000 – 3,000,000 VND per car
(Price depends on vehicle size and season)
When shared among a group, the cost becomes very reasonable.
>>>Read more : 5 Outstanding Climbing Crags in Huu Lung, Vietnam
Recommended for:
- Professional climbers
- Long stays
- Travelers with large or heavy gear
Option 2: Direct Bus from Huu Lung to Cat Ba
Few travelers know that some local bus companies operate direct services to Cat Ba during certain periods.
2.1 Phương Thảo Bus Company (Direct Route)
Phương Thảo currently offers the most practical direct bus option from the Lạng Sơn area to Cat Ba.
Ticket Price
Approximately 320,000 VND (one way)
Departure Time
- No fixed public schedule
- Usually morning to early afternoon
- Advance confirmation required
Contact
- Hotline: +84 1900 99 88 58
- Mobile / Zalo: +84 866 999 971
Always call 1–2 days in advance to confirm pickup location, time, and luggage acceptance.
>>>Read more : Huu Lung (Yen Thinh) Climbing Area – Vietnam
2.2. Hung Thinh / Thinh Hung
Long-standing companies operating the Lang Son – Hai Phong route. They have a high frequency of trips and can drop you near the ferry terminals or the Tan Vu bridge.
Phone: +84 225 377 8923
Hai Phong to Cat Ba
If you are on a bus from Lang Son/Huu Lung to Hai Phong, you will most likely be dropped off at Vinh Niem Bus Station (Bến xe Vĩnh Niệm). From there, you have four main ways to reach Cat Ba Island.
Here is the breakdown of your options:
1. The Tourist “Combo” Bus (The Easiest & Most Popular)
This is an all-in-one service that takes care of everything: Bus – Speedboat/Ferry – Shuttle to your hotel in Cat Ba Town.
How to book: Call one of the specialized tourist lines as soon as you arrive in Hai Phong. They can often pick you up at the bus station or a nearby office.
>>>Read more : How to get to Huu Lien , Huu Lung, Lang Son
Top Operators:
- Daiichi Travel: +84 886 699 665
- Cat Ba Express: +84 976 951 999
- Good Morning Cat Ba: +84 913 096 281
Price: ~150,000 – 250,000 VND ($6 – $10 USD).
Why choose this: No lugging heavy climbing gear between different vehicles. It’s seamless.
2. The Sun World Cable Car (The Fastest & Most Scenic)
If you want a “bird’s-eye view” of Lan Ha Bay, this is the way to go.
- How to get there: Take a Taxi/Grab from Vinh Niem Bus Station to Cat Hai Station (approx. 20km / 12 miles).
- The Ride: The cable car takes only 10–15 minutes to reach the island (Phu Long Station).Final Leg:
- From Phu Long, you’ll need to catch Bus #13 or a shuttle for the remaining 25km drive into Cat Ba Town.
- Note: The cable car is usually closed on Tuesdays and the last trip is around 3:45 PM.
3. Pro Tips for Climbers
Handling Your Gear
Buses: If you have a large crash pad for bouldering, mention it when booking the bus. Most sleeper buses have large cargo holds (the “belly” of the bus), so it shouldn’t be an issue, but it’s polite to give them a heads-up.
Car: A 7-seater (SUV/Minivan) is best if you have more than 2 people with full climbing kits.
>>>Read more : The Best Huu Lung Travel Guide and Things To Do
The “Ferry vs. Cable Car” Hack
During weekends or holidays, the Dong Bai Ferry can have massive wait times (2–3 hours).
The Shortcut: Ask your driver to drop you at the Sun World Cat Hai Cable Car station. You can take a 15-minute scenic cable car ride over the ocean to the island, then catch a quick taxi to Cat Ba Town. It’s faster and the view is incredible.
Timing Your Departure
Try to leave Huu Lien around 8:00 AM. This ensures you arrive at Cat Ba by early afternoon, giving you enough time to check in, grab a break , and maybe even hit a “Deep Water Solo” (DWS) session or a sunset climb at Butterfly Valley.
>>>Read more : Top Trekking Destinations in Vietnam Loved by International Travelers
