Instead of flying into Vietnam and navigating multiple transfers to reach Ha Long Bay, travelers can now opt for a more romantic and seamless journey: arriving by sea through the Ha Long International Cruise Port, a modern marvel connecting the world to one of UNESCO’s most spectacular natural heritage sites.

A modern icon in Vietnam’s tourism landscape

Since its official opening in 2018, Ha Long International Cruise Port has marked a significant leap in regional tourism. Strategically located in the heart of Bai Chay tourist area, this state-of-the-art port was developed with an investment of approximately USD 43.5 million and is capable of welcoming modern cruise ships carrying over 10,000 passengers, as well as luxury yachts from around the globe.

As Vietnam’s first dedicated international cruise terminal, every detail of its design was optimized for convenience, comfort, and safety. A 785-meter-long, 10.5-meter-wide gangway links directly to the international terminal, ensuring a smooth disembarkation. 

The terminal itself stretches 462 meters and accommodates two large cruise ships at once, with a total daily capacity of up to 10,000 visitors. The domestic terminal, with four berths, can handle 200-300 sightseeing boats per day, serving up to 15,000 passengers exploring Ha Long Bay.

A global cruise hub with architectural flair

Ha Long International Cruise Port has quickly become a key connection point linking Vietnam’s coastal attractions with global cruise itineraries, especially routes spanning Europe and the Americas. Top cruise liners such as Costa Serena, Celebrity Solstice, and Noordam now include Ha Long as a featured stop.

More than just functional, the port is an architectural standout. Its 13,500-square-meter terminal was designed by world-renowned architect Bill Bensley, who blended Indochine inspiration with the form of a vintage European ship. 

The result is an interior rich in detail, with elegant carvings, spacious halls, and warm golden lighting reminiscent of Hoi An’s historic streets. Immigration procedures are streamlined through advanced technology, ensuring a smooth, first-class arrival experience.

As dusk settles, the port transforms into a captivating spectacle. The Cruise Night Street glows with vibrant lights and hosts live music performances at sunset, when golden rays fall behind the bay’s limestone peaks. These moments, cast in romance and wonder, highlight Ha Long Bay’s reputation as one of the most beautiful places on Earth to watch the sunset.

Enhancing the journey through Ha Long Bay

The cruise port has also transformed the visitor experience with efficient ticketing, friendly staff, and a variety of curated sightseeing options. Guests can easily select routes based on their time and interests.

A 4-hour cruise explores iconic sites such as Thien Cung Cave, Dau Go Cave, Trong Mai Islet, and Ba Hang fishing village, featuring activities like kayaking and bamboo boat rides. For a more immersive outing, the 6-hour itinerary adds stops like Sung Sot Cave, one of the bay’s most impressive caverns, and Titop Island, known for panoramic summit views and pristine beaches.

For those seeking a private and indulgent experience, overnight cruises offer the ultimate escape. Passengers dine under the stars, wake to breathtaking sunrises, and immerse themselves in the serene majesty of Ha Long Bay. No matter the itinerary, every moment is filled with awe, as the bay unveils its unique natural wonders.

From the port, visitors can also explore nearby attractions in Ha Long City, including Sun World Ha Long, Quang Ninh Museum, and Vui Fest Night Market. High-speed boat services connect Ha Long with Hai Phong and Co To Island, offering fast, convenient travel to surrounding destinations.

A thriving cruise destination for 2025

The port is expected to welcome approximately 70 cruise ships in 2025, bringing nearly 90,000 international tourists to Ha Long Bay - an increase of 1.3 times compared to 2024’s total of 76,000 visitors. In just the first months of the year, it has already served nearly 15,000 passengers aboard 11 cruise ships from top-tier global operators.

This year’s lineup includes vessels from renowned brands like Mein Schiff 6, Celebrity Solstice, and Costa Serena. Particularly in November, the port will receive cruise ships from Beihai, China, three times per week - marking a new chapter in Northeast Asian tourism integration.

With its advanced infrastructure, efficient services, and prime coastal location, Ha Long International Cruise Port is not just a gateway to Ha Long Bay, but also a destination that connects travelers to Vietnam’s cultural, natural, and touristic brilliance.

PV