Port information & tips for Hai Phong
Hai Phong is Vietnam's major port city and serves as a charming gateway to the world-famous Halong Bay and the picturesque island of Cat Ba. The local atmosphere is characterized by grand French colonial architecture, boulevards lined with vibrant flame trees, and authentic Vietnamese vitality. Cultural highlights in the immediate vicinity include the magnificent Hai Phong Opera House, the historic Du Hang Pagoda, and the idyllic Tam Bac Lake in the heart of the city. Cruise ships usually dock at the central Hoang Dieu Port or the modern deep-water terminal Lach Huyen, from where the city center is easily accessible thanks to short transfer routes, while also providing first-class connections to the region's surrounding natural wonders.
Hai Phong is a major seaport in northern Vietnam and serves as the gateway to scenic cruises in Lan Ha Bay, as well as a starting point for excursions to Hanoi. The terminals are modern but industrial in nature, and therefore require good planning for arrival and departure.
Airplane
The nearest airport is Cat Bi International Airport (HPH) in Hai Phong, which is located only about 6 to 8 kilometers from the city center. The travel time to the port or the city is usually 15 to 30 minutes. For international travelers from the DACH region, Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi is often the first choice, which is about 100 kilometers away and allows for a travel time of 2.5 to 3 hours to Hai Phong.
Transfer & Pre-Cruise Hotel
From Cat Bi International Airport (HPH), you can reach the cruise terminals or your hotel comfortably by taxi or via ride-hailing apps like Grab. A private transfer to Got Pier, an important starting point for Lan Ha Bay cruises, takes about 45 minutes. Given the long journey from the DACH region, staying overnight in a pre-cruise hotel in Hai Phong or Hanoi is recommended to start your cruise adventure relaxed. This also provides sufficient time for acclimatization and a stress-free transfer on embarkation day.
Road Connections & Port Logistics
Hai Phong is excellently connected to the road network, particularly through the modern Hanoi – Hai Phong Expressway (also known as Highway 5B or CT.04), which enables a fast connection to the capital. Cruise ships dock in Hai Phong at industrial container terminals such as the Lach Huyen International Container Terminal or Tan Vu Port. These piers do not have tourist infrastructure, which is why shuttle services from the cruise lines or booked taxis/Grab vehicles are necessary for the transfer from the ship to the city center or vice versa. Specific long-term parking spaces directly at the industrial terminals for private vehicles are not designated as a tourist service; arrival is ideally via organized transfers.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time – depending on the cruise line and destination – is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the journey: For shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
Hai Phong is a major seaport in northern Vietnam and serves as the gateway to scenic cruises in Lan Ha Bay, as well as a starting point for excursions to Hanoi. The terminals are modern but industrial in nature, and therefore require good planning for arrival and departure.
Airplane
The nearest airport is Cat Bi International Airport (HPH) in Hai Phong, which is located only about 6 to 8 kilometers from the city center. The travel time to the port or the city is usually 15 to 30 minutes. For international travelers from the DACH region, Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi is often the first choice, which is about 100 kilometers away and allows for a travel time of 2.5 to 3 hours to Hai Phong.
Transfer & Pre-Cruise Hotel
From Cat Bi International Airport (HPH), you can reach the cruise terminals or your hotel comfortably by taxi or via ride-hailing apps like Grab. A private transfer to Got Pier, an important starting point for Lan Ha Bay cruises, takes about 45 minutes. Given the long journey from the DACH region, staying overnight in a pre-cruise hotel in Hai Phong or Hanoi is recommended to start your cruise adventure relaxed. This also provides sufficient time for acclimatization and a stress-free transfer on embarkation day.
Road Connections & Port Logistics
Hai Phong is excellently connected to the road network, particularly through the modern Hanoi – Hai Phong Expressway (also known as Highway 5B or CT.04), which enables a fast connection to the capital. Cruise ships dock in Hai Phong at industrial container terminals such as the Lach Huyen International Container Terminal or Tan Vu Port. These piers do not have tourist infrastructure, which is why shuttle services from the cruise lines or booked taxis/Grab vehicles are necessary for the transfer from the ship to the city center or vice versa. Specific long-term parking spaces directly at the industrial terminals for private vehicles are not designated as a tourist service; arrival is ideally via organized transfers.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time – depending on the cruise line and destination – is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the journey: For shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
The Port of Hai Phong offers ideal conditions for explorers thanks to its modern infrastructure and proximity to the city center and Halong Bay. Travelers can easily reach the most important sights directly from the terminal using various means of transport.
Taxi & Grab
Official taxis from well-known providers such as Mai Linh wait at the port exit and take you reliably to the city center, which is about 15 to 30 minutes away. In addition, the Grab ride-sharing service can be used via an app, which enables transparent pricing and uncomplicated booking directly from your smartphone.
Xe Om (Motorcycle Taxis)
Traditional Xe Om are available at many intersections and near the port area, offering an authentic and swift way to get around. These motorized two-wheelers maneuver skillfully through Vietnamese city traffic and are ideal for solo travelers who want to experience the bustling life of the port city up close.
On Foot
When calling at moorings close to the center, such as Hoang Dieu Port, you can reach the colonial-style old town in about 10 to 15 minutes. The short walk leads past local markets and offers first impressions of the architecture and culture, while you simultaneously enjoy the maritime atmosphere of the city.
To make the most of your stay in Hai Phong, we recommend exploring the architecturally charming city center combined with a trip to the significant cultural sites or the nearby coastal sections.
Colonial Quarter & Opera House
The heart of the city delights with its magnificent French colonial architecture and the striking Opera House, while the wide boulevards and the colorful flower market invite you to an authentic city stroll near the harbor.
Du Hang Pagoda
This historic sanctuary is considered a cultural jewel of the region and fascinates with its artistic carvings and peaceful gardens, which are perfect for a deep insight into Vietnamese tradition and spirituality.
Do Son Peninsula
The popular coastal resort is quickly accessible thanks to a short travel time and, with its extensive beaches and lively promenade, offers the ideal setting for a relaxed break by the sea and culinary discoveries.
Lan Ha Bay from Got Pier
Lan Ha Bay is the exclusive and pristine alternative to the better-known Halong Bay and can be perfectly reached from the cruise port thanks to its immediate proximity to Got Pier. A day tour on a comfortable ship offers you a relaxed break amidst spectacular limestone formations and emerald-green lagoons, complemented by first-class gastronomy directly on board. These ships feature spacious panorama decks and also provide ideal conditions for quiet moments on the water as well as small kayak excursions to hidden caves. Ideally, plan your excursion for the early morning to fully enjoy the peaceful silence of the bay and return relaxed to the ship approximately ninety minutes before departure.
The way back to the port in Hai Phong is straightforward thanks to the well-developed infrastructure and allows you a relaxed return after your excursion. Due to the heavy traffic volume in the port region, plan for sufficient travel time to be back on board in time before departure.
Taxi and Grab
Taxis from reliable providers such as Mai Linh are available at any time in front of major hotels like the Avani Hai Phong Harbour View or the Melia Vinpearl, as well as at the Aeon Mall. Additionally, you can use the Grab app for a convenient pickup at your current location and benefit from fixed prices as well as a direct trip to the correct terminal.
Cruise Line Shuttle Buses
Many cruise companies provide their own shuttle buses that regularly commute between the Hai Phong Opera House in the city center and the port terminal. These buses offer a very safe connection and take you directly to the ship area, without you having to worry about orientation in the extensive port area.
Private Transfer and Orientation
Since the large terminals like Lach Huyen are located in an industrial area, returning with a private driver or a taxi is the most comfortable choice. The access roads are well-developed for professional drivers and thanks to the clear signage within the port grounds, you will quickly reach your ship's gangway.
