Overview of Tuan Chau Harbor
Tuan Chau Marina remains the most prominent international cruise port in Halong Bay and is recognized as the largest artificial port in Vietnam. The port is divided into two main sections: Port 1 and Port 2. Port 1, established in 2009, features a 2-kilometer berth with the capacity to accommodate 200 ships simultaneously. Port 2, which began operations in 2015, boasts an impressive 7-kilometer berth that can host up to 2000 vessels at once. Port 2 is tailored primarily for large-scale overnight ships, while Port 1 caters mainly to smaller daytime vessels.
The marina has been equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure and facilities, which include expansive terminal and operational areas, designated spaces for port authorities and management, cruise company offices, and systems for supplying fresh water and fuel for vessels. A long bridge connects the marina to the mainland, providing a convenient transport system and a spacious parking lot to accommodate thousands of tourists each day.
Additionally, the surrounding area features a variety of villas, luxurious hotels and resorts, restaurants, amusement parks, supermarkets, and shopping options, making it one of the most sought-after destinations when visiting Halong Bay.
Location
Tuan Chau Marina is situated on Tuan Chau Island in Ngoc Chau Ward, Halong City, Quang Ninh Province. It is approximately 170 km from Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi), 73 km from Van Don International Airport (Quang Ninh), and 40 km from Cat Bi International Airport (Hai Phong). Travelers can easily reach the marina through various modes of transportation, including public transport and private vehicles.
How to get there?
Due to its prime location, the marina is highly accessible from various provinces across Vietnam. The port typically welcomes a large influx of tourists from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hai Phong City.
From Hanoi
Hanoi serves as a major transit hub for travelers heading to Halong, presenting numerous cruise companies and travel agencies that offer bus transfers starting at a reasonable price of about US$20-40 per person for a round trip.
Local buses from My Dinh or Giap Bat bus stations are also available at an economical fare of around US$7 per person for a one-way trip. However, this route can take up to 4 hours and may be less comfortable.
A private transfer in a 4-seater car generally costs between US$90-100 and offers flexibility for travel schedules. For a luxurious experience, seaplane services are available, providing a 45-minute flight with an additional 15-minute aerial tour of the breathtaking landscape.
From Ho Chi Minh City
Situated approximately 1,800 km away, convenient transportation options from Ho Chi Minh City include sleeper buses or trains, with travel times ranging from 35 to 37 hours. While these options are budget-friendly and offer scenic views, flying remains the most time-efficient choice, taking only about 2 hours. The nearest airports for this route include Cat Bi (Hai Phong), Van Don (Quang Ninh), and Noi Bai (Hanoi), with airfares typically ranging from US$60-100, depending on your travel dates and season.
From Hai Phong
The journey from Hai Phong to Tuan Chau Marina is conveniently short, taking around 1 hour by car. Taxis or private car services from the airport typically cost about US$30 per car for a one-way trip. Alternatively, local buses from Lac Long station are available for approximately US$2, though reaching the bus station requires an additional 8 km commute from the airport, making the total trip around 1.5 hours.
Where to eat
The cruise port offers a delightful culinary journey showcasing both local and international cuisines. Three noteworthy dining spots include Tuan Chau Food Court, Sen Ha Thanh Halong Restaurant, and Yolo Hill Restaurant.
Tuan Chau Food Court
Designed with traditional oriental architecture, the food court offers an assortment of regional specialties at affordable prices ranging from VND 150,000 - 300,000 per person. The venue includes both large and small VIP dining areas accommodating private groups of 15 to 150 guests.
- Address: On the way to the Dolphin Performance Club, Tuan Chau Marina, Ha Long
- Contact: +(84) 336 235 686 / +(84) 912 568 393
Sen Ha Thanh Halong Restaurant
Part of the acclaimed Sen Buffet chain from Hanoi, Sen Ha Thanh Halong offers a remarkable dining experience set in a luxurious Indochine-inspired space that covers 6,000 m² and features captivating bay views. The expansive buffet menu includes up to 200 dishes representing Vietnamese as well as various Asian and European cuisines. Additionally, the restaurant provides a children’s zone and a stylish space with soothing tunes for relaxation. Set menus and beverages are also available.
- Address: Lot 1, Tuan Chau Marina, Ha Long
- Open Time: 7:30 AM - 10:00 PM (Monday - Sunday)
- Contact: +84 (0) 919 558 993
Yolo Hill Restaurant
Formerly known as Yolo Tuan Chau, Yolo Hill specializes in a variety of local seafood dishes along with numerous Vietnamese specialties. With both intimate indoor seating and a sea-view outdoor area, the restaurant accommodates up to 1,500 guests at a time, making it an ideal venue for groups, events, and conferences.
- Address: Lot 12, Ngoc Chau Street, Tuan Chau Marina, Halong
- Open Time: 8:30 AM - 12:00 AM.
- Contact: +(84) 343 959 556 - +(84) 912 485 695
Where to stay
For those wishing to extend their stay in Halong Bay, Tuan Chau offers a selection of resorts and hotels that provide comfortable lodging. Below are some recommended options:
|
Hotels |
Highlights |
Price Range (Room/Night) |
|---|---|---|
|
Paradise Suites |
- 1 km from Tuan Chau Beach - 156 rooms (32 sqm) - Swimming pool - Whisky Gallery Bar - 2 restaurants: European and Asian cuisine - Conference facilities - Spa services - Coconut Lounge - Parking available |
US$90 - US$130 |
|
Tuan Chau Resort Halong |
- 300m from Tuan Chau Beach - 207 rooms (39 - 42 sqm) - Swimming pool - Restaurant and bar |
US$60 - US$90 |
|
Golden Palm Halong Hotel |
- 800m from Tuan Chau Beach - Rooms ranging from 18 - 35 sqm - Family rooms available - 500m from the beach - Golden Palm Halong Restaurant |
US$45 - US$75 |
|
Minh Duc Hotel Tuan Chau |
- 600m from Tuan Chau Beach - Rooms ranging from 30 - 35 sqm - Triple and family room options - Restaurant and bar available |
US$25 - US$50 |
What to do
As an all-encompassing destination, Tuan Chau is much more than just a cruise port with accommodations and dining options; it offers a variety of entertainment activities and attractions. Here are some must-see locations that travelers should not miss:
Halong Bay
Perhaps the most essential activity is to embark on a cruise in Halong Bay. Numerous ships sail from this port, offering a range of cruise options across different price categories.
- Luxury cruises: Paradise Elegance, Stellar of the Seas, Heritage Binh Chuan, Capella, Genesis Luxury Regal, Nostalgia Cruise
- Mid-range cruises: Orchid Trendy, Paradise Sails, La Casta Regal, La Pandora, Sena
- Budget cruises: Amanda, Alova, Phoenix, Pelican Glory
Tuan Chau Beach
With a 5-kilometer coastline, Tuan Chau Beach is recognized as the largest artificial beach in Vietnam. The sandy shores and picturesque scenery make it an ideal location for both swimming and various beach activities, including volleyball, kayaking, windsurfing, and jet skiing.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Cleaning Fee: US$2
- Operating Hours: 24/7
Tuan Chau Park
Situated on Tuan Chau Island, approximately 1.5 km from the marina, Tuan Chau Park is a vibrant recreational destination sprawling over five hectares which incorporates three main sections: King Kong Park, Tuan Chau Dolphin Park, and an outdoor amusement park.
King Kong Park is adorned with large King Kong statues and replicas that depict legends including the 18 dragons and the myth of Lac Long Quan and Au Co. The Dolphin Park offers visitors entertaining performances featuring dolphins and seals, scheduled for 10:00 AM, 3:00 PM, and 8:30 PM every Saturday and Sunday. Additionally, the outdoor amusement area boasts a variety of thrilling rides, car crashes, 5D cinemas, and merry-go-rounds.
- Entrance Fee: US$12 (Tuan Chau Park), US$6 (King Kong Park)
- Operating Hours: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Questions and Answers (0)
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Frequently asked questions
1. Is the port easy to get to by motorbike?
Yes. The port is situated on Tuan Chau Island, linked to the mainland via a bridge. As of 2025, access to the marina remains convenient by motorbike or car, with improved roadways for easier travel.
2. What is the entrance fee?
The entrance fee is now $2.00 per ticket as of 2025. For those traveling on a cruise tour, this fee is generally included in the cruise package.
3. How far is it from the port to Bai Chay?
The distance is approximately 13 km, and you can take a taxi from the dock to Bai Chay, which typically takes about 20 minutes.
4. Is there any vegetarian restaurant there?
As of 2025, there are several new eateries near the harbor offering dedicated vegetarian menus. While seafood and fusion cuisine still dominate, options for all-vegetarian meals are now available. Many restaurants are accommodating and can prepare vegetarian dishes upon request.
5. Does it have a play zone for kids?
Yes. The harbor caters to all ages with a variety of entertainment options, including dolphin performances, water spectacles, and engaging monkey acts. Visitors can enjoy these thrilling shows along with numerous other activities suitable for both adults and children.
6. Can I book a cruise directly at the port?
Yes. Numerous cruise representative offices at the port allow direct bookings. However, booking on-site can restrict your options since many tickets are reserved ahead of time. Day cruises typically commence around 7 AM or 12 PM, while overnight cruises begin daily at 12 PM.
