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In this in-depth route guide, you'll find the best ways to travel the 125 kilometre distance from CatBa to Ninh Binh. Whether you prefer the scenic overnight train, a convenient bus+ferry combo, or the fastest flight option — we've got all the details you need.
There are 4 ways to get from CatBa to Ninh Binh. You can choose between the bus + ferry, ferry + bus, shared minivan + ferry, private transport. The most affordable option is by bus + ferry, starting from $9. The fastest route is by bus + ferry (4h ).
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4h
$9
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4h
$14
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4h
$110
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4h 30m
$13
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Taking a combined bus and ferry is a convenient way to travel straight from CatBa to Ninh Binh. There are eleven companies operating on this route.
The combined bus and ferry from CatBa to Ninh Binh usually follows this route:
Not sure yet which area to stay in Ninh Binh? See our Ninh Binh destination page for why we think you should travel to Tam Coc instead of Ninh Binh.
Both companies park in Tam Coc town centre, but The Long Travel also stops to drop off passengers in Ninh Binh City.
TIP: In case you want to stay in Ninh Binh City, make sure the bus company stops there! We have heard stories of bus drivers who refused to stop in Ninh Binh City and argued that they were going to Ninh Binh province instead of the city.
Hai Phong is a coastal city located just across CatBa, around 30 km away. Some tourists travelling from CatBa to Ninh Binh prefer to make a short stop in Hai Phong before continuing their journey.
Are you one of those tourists? If yes, read on for a detailed guide!
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Koh Tao is a premier diving destination in the Gulf of Thailand, widely known as one of the most affordable places in the world to obtain your PADI certification. Beyond diving, the island offers beautiful bays, pristine beaches, stunning viewpoints, coral gardens, and abundant marine life.
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A shared minivan + ferry ride from CatBa to Ninh Binh costs around . The journey takes about , depending on traffic.
There are companies operating on this route: .
What we like about this option is that some minivan companies offer free hotel pickup and drop-off. This saves you the hassle and extra cost of finding your way to and from bus stations.
A private transfer is a convenient option when travelling in a group from CatBa to Ninh Binh.
Rates start from $110 for a -seater private transfer. Divide the cost and that’s just about per person. Travel time is around 4 hours 30 minutes.
Most travelers base themselves near the main beach for easy access to transport, restaurants, and activities.
Popular budget resort with pool, located on Sairee Beach. Walking distance to dive shops and restaurants.
800 THB/night ($24)
Beachfront bungalows with balconies overlooking Sairee Beach. On-site restaurant and dive center.
2,200 THB/night ($66)
Luxury resort with private beach, infinity pool, and spa. Perfect for couples wanting extra comfort.
6,500 THB/night ($195)
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Ferry Schedule Notice
Ferry schedules can change due to weather, sea conditions, or seasonal adjustments. We recommend confirming departure times directly with the operator, especially during monsoon season.
Carbon Footprint
This 125 km journey produces approximately 11 g CO2 by bus. Taking public transport is one of the lowest-emission ways to travel this route.
Used the Songserm ferry from Koh Samui. Cheaper than Lomprayah but takes a bit longer. Still a perfectly fine crossing. The views approaching Koh Tao are stunning either way.
OOliver S.November 2025Ferry
Train via Surat Thani was our pick. More scenic than Chumphon route and the Lomprayah catamaran from Tapee Pier is very comfortable. Book the special express train for the quickest ride.
The overnight bus with Montanatip was okay but not great. The bus was older and the seats didn't recline much. Ferry portion was fine though. If you're on a tight budget it works.
Took the sleeper train to Chumphon — magical! Woke up to palm trees and transferred to the Lomprayah catamaran. Whole journey felt like an adventure.
Lomprayah bus+ferry combo from Khao San Road was seamless. Departed at 6am, arrived Koh Tao by 3pm. Well organized.
Flew to Koh Samui and took Lomprayah catamaran. More expensive but saved a full day. Worth it if your holiday is short.
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