Ao Tien International Port

Ao Tien International Port

Ao Tien International Port Overview

As the premier modern maritime gateway in Quang Ninh, here is a quick overview of essential facts to know before visiting the port:

Ao Tien International Port features modern facilities, organized berths, spacious waiting areas, and essential passenger services. As a key maritime gateway, it connects the mainland with major islands and coastal destinations across Quang Ninh.

The port’s 06:00–19:00 opening hours refer to terminal services, not ferry schedules. Departure times are set separately by individual operators, so check your ticket and arrive 30 – 45 minutes before departure.

Where Is Ao Tien International Port?

• Location: Ha Long commune, Van Don district, Quang Ninh province
• Located in the northeast of Van Don, next to Bai Tu Long Bay, with direct access to the main Van Don road and Van Don–Mong Cai Expressway.
• Distance from Cai Rong: Approximately 6 km, about 10 minutes by car.

Distance from Van Don International Airport to Ao Tien Port

How to Get to Ao Tien International Port

Navigating your trip to  Ao Tien International Port is seamless thanks to Quang Ninh's modern transport network.

From Hanoi to Ao Tien Port

Ao Tien International Port is approximately 277 km from Hanoi, taking around 3 - 3.5 hours by road. You can choose from several transport options:

Recommendation for International Travelers: Limousine(e.g., Van Don Xanh Limousine, Co To Limousine, Trung Thanh Limousine,...) offer the best balance of speed, convenience, and direct point-to-point drop-off right at the terminal gate without transfer hassle.

The distance from Hanoi to Ao Tien International Port is over 200 km.

Getting to Ao Tien International Port by Limousine

From Ha Long to Ao Tien Port

• Distance is ~ 50 km via the Ha Long – Van Don Expressway.
• Travel Time: ~45 – 60 minutes.
• Taxi: Metered/fixed-rate taxis (Mai Linh, Sun Taxi) cost ~$23.00 – $34.00 USD.
• Private Transfer: Private 4 to 7-seater cars cost ~$25.00 – $38.00 USD.
• Public Bus: Local Bus Route No. 01 (Bai Chay/Ha Long – Van Don) drops off near Cai Rong town / main road; requires a short 5-minute taxi to Ao Tien Port.

Ha Long – Van Don Bus
 
 

From Van Don International Airport to Ao Tien Port

• Distance & Travel Time: ~8 km (~10 – 15 minutes by car).
• Taxi / Private Transfer: Easily available outside arrivals; costs ~US $4.50 – $7.50
• Same-Day Flight-to-Ferry Connection: Fully feasible if your flight lands before 11:00 to catch afternoon ferries (12:00 – 3:00).
• Recommended Buffer Time: Keep at least 2–2.5 hours between flight arrival and ferry departure for luggage, transfer, ticket collection, and port procedures.

Taxi is a popular option for getting from Van Don International Airport to Ao Tien Port.

Ferry Routes & Ticket Prices from Ao Tien International Port

Ao Tien serves several island routes. Fares and schedules can vary depending on the operator, vessel, season, and sea conditions. 

NOTE: This information was last updated in September 2026 and is subject to change based on various circumstances, including routes, departure times, fares, and booking methods. For the most up-to-date details, please visit the operator's website or contact their hotline before your trip.

Detailed Route Information

Ao Tien → Co To

• Vessel Types & Fares:

• New-gen Catamaran: ~ US $11.4 - 14.50 (Adults) | ~ US $9.50 (Kids 3–5)
• Standard Catamaran: ~ US $9.5 - 10.5(Adults) | ~ US $5.70 (Kids 3–5)
• Children under 3 years: Free

• Operators: Tuan Chau Express, Havaco, Ka Long, Hoang Quan.
• Travel Time: 60 – 70 minutes.
• Daily Schedule: 06:00, 07:00, 07:30, 08:30, 09:30, 11:00, 12:00, 13:30, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00.

Ao Tien – Co To High-Speed Ferry

Ao Tien → Quan Lan

• Vessel Type: High-speed speedboats.
• Operators: Havaco, Ka Long, Hoang Vinh, Quang Minh.
• Travel Time: 45 – 60 minutes.
• Fares: Adults: ~$7.60 – $9.50 USD. Children under 3: Free.
• Daily Schedule:

• Morning: 07:00, 07:30, 08:30, 10:30
• Afternoon: 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00

Ao Tien – Quan Lan High-Speed Ferry

Ao Tien → Minh Chau

• Vessel Type: Express speedboats (landing at Minh Chau Pier).
• Operators: Minh Chau Express, Ka Long, Quang Minh.
• Travel Time: 45 – 60 minutes.
• Fares: Adults: ~$6.80 – $8.40 USD. Children under 3: Free.
• Daily Schedule:

• Morning: 07:15, 08:00, 09:30, 11:30
• Afternoon: 13:30, 14:30, 15:30

Ao Tien → Ngoc Vung

• Vessel Type: High-speed speedboats and local ferries (limited daily runs).
• Operators & Daily Schedule: Ao Tien to Ngoc Vung: Hoan Chung Boat – 07:30 and 13:30 daily. And Ngoc Vung to Ao Tien: Thanh Long 09 Boat – 06:20 and 13:00 daily.
• Travel Time: 45 – 60 minutes.
• Fares: Flat rate: ~US $3.00; Children under 3 travel free (lap seating).

Ao Tien → Thanh Lan

• Vessel Type: Direct high-speed ferries (Limited runs) / Transfer via Co To.
• Operators: Havaco, Nguyen Viet.
• Travel Time: 75 – 90 minutes.
• Fares: Adults: ~US $11.50 – 14.5; Children aged 3-5: ~US $8.3.
• Daily Schedule: Direct ferries from Ao Tien to Thanh Lan are very limited (typically 1 daily departure around 11:30–12:00, with extra runs during peak summer).

Ao Tien → Ban Sen

• Vessel Type: Steel/wooden boat (local civilian ferry).
• Operators: Quang Minh, Local civilian boats.
• Travel Time: 30 – 45 minutes.
• Fares: Adults: ~US $2 – 3.2, Children aged 3-5: ~US $1.2 - 2
• Daily Schedule: 07:00 and 13:00 daily.
• Note: Tickets generally exclude the Ao Tien Port Terminal Fee (~$1.20 per adult/turn). Schedules, frequency, and fares may change with seasonal demand, tides, or weather, so confirm with the operator before travel.

How to Buy Ferry Tickets at Ao Tien Port

To ensure a smooth journey from Ao Tien International Port to the islands, here is everything you need to know about purchasing ferry tickets:

Buy Tickets Directly at Ao Tien Port

• Visit the ground-floor ticket counters for operators like Havaco, Ka Long, and Tuan Chau Express, or use self-service kiosks --> Choose your schedule, provide your details, pay, and receive a QR-code ticket.
• International travelers must present their original physical passport.
• VND cash, local QR bank transfer, or major credit cards at select counters.
• Round-trip tickets are available at the counters.
• Arrive 30–45 minutes early on weekdays and at least 60 minutes early on summer weekends or holidays.

Buy ferry tickets directly at the ticket counter at Ao Tien Port in Van Don 

Buy Ferry Tickets Online

• Official operator websites/apps, hotlines/Zalo, Klook, or Vexere. Tickets can be booked directly with operators. Receive an E-ticket with a QR code via Email or Zalo.
• High-speed ferries usually accept QR codes directly; some smaller operators require paper tickets.
• A physical passport or national ID is required at boarding.

Things You Need to Know Before Buying Ferry Tickets

• Book 1–2 days ahead on normal weekdays.
• During May–August, weekends, and holidays, booking 1–2 weeks ahead is recommended.
• Round-trip tickets are useful for island day trips and Sunday returns.
• Change and cancellation rules depend on the operator.
• Weather-related cancellations or suspensions follow port regulations.

Facilities & Amenities at Ao Tien International Port

Facilities at Ao Tien Port

Restaurant Area at the Port

Essential Tips for First-Time Visitors to Ao Tien International Port

• Check your ticket says Ao Tien Port, not Cai Rong Port.
• Confirm both outbound and return ferry times before visiting the islands.
• Check current schedules as boat times may change with seasons, operators, and sea conditions.
• Book ahead for summer, weekends, and holidays, especially for Quan Lan, Minh Chau, and Co To.
• Allow buffer time for possible ferry delays and avoid tight flight or bus connections.
• From Van Don Airport allow extra time for luggage, transfers, and ferry check-in.
• Keep your passports or National IDs easily accessible.
• Contact the operator before departure if weather conditions are poor.
• If leaving your vehicle overnight, confirm parking fees and operating arrangements first.

Essential tips for first-time visitors to Ao Tien International Port, including check-in, ticket counters, and ferry departure facilities

Where to Stay Near Ao Tien International Port

Below are some accommodation suggestions for visiting Ao Tien International Port, categorized by your trip purpose and budget:

For an Early-Morning Ferry

Staying near Ao Tien or Cai Rong is useful when catching an early departure:

• Ao Tien Harbour Boutique Hotel: ~1 km / 4-minute drive — US $26.60–41.80/night
• Las Vegas Hotel Van Don: ~2 km / 5-minute drive — US $23–35/night

Ao Tien Harbour Boutique Hotel near Ao Tien Port, ideal for travelers catching early-morning ferries

For an Overnight Stay in Van Don

If you arrive the day before, staying somewhere with convenient access to restaurants and local attractions can be more comfortable. 

• Wyndham Garden Sonasea Van Don: ~5.3 km / 10-minute drive — US$76–133/night
• Bai Tu Long Mountain Resort: ~3 km / 5-minute drive — US $45.60–68.40/night
• Diamond Hotel Van Don: ~8.7 km / 12-minute drive — US $24.70–38/night

Wyndham Garden Sonasea Van Don, a convenient hotel near dining and local attractions for overnight stays 

FAQs About Ao Tien International Port

What islands can you reach from Ao Tien Port?

Direct ferries serve popular destinations including Co To, Thanh Lan, Quan Lan, Minh Chau, Ngoc Vung, and Ban Sen.

Can I buy ferry tickets directly at Ao Tien Port?

Yes. Tickets are available at ground-floor counters, while online booking is recommended during peak periods.

What is the difference between Ao Tien Port and Cai Rong Port?

Opened in 2023, Ao Tien Port handles high-speed passenger vessels and inter-island ferries, while Cai Rong Port mainly serves cargo and fishing boats.

How far is Ao Tien Port from Van Don International Airport?

The port is approximately 12.2 km away, about 18–20 minutes by taxi or private vehicle.

Are ferries from Ao Tien Port affected by bad weather?

Yes. Departures may be suspended during storms, rough seas, or tropical depressions until conditions improve.

Is there parking at Ao Tien Port?

Yes. Ao Tien Port offers a spacious overnight parking lot for hundreds of cars and motorbikes, with 24/7 security. Fees vary by vehicle type.

How to Board a Ferry at Ao Tien International Port?

Step 1: Arrive at Ao Tien Port: Reach the terminal 30–45 minutes before departure (60 minutes in peak ).

Step 2: Buy or collect your ferry ticket: Use the counter, kiosk, or digital QR ticket. 

Step 3: Check your departure information: Confirm the boat name, gate, and boarding status on the display screens. 

Step 4: Complete passenger/document checks: Present your passport or National ID as required.

Step 5: Proceed to the waiting/boarding area: Go through the waiting lobby to your assigned pier/gate as announced.

Step 6: Board the correct ferry: Show your ticket/QR code, store luggage, and take your assigned seat.

We hope this guide helps you navigate Ao Tien International Port and plan your trip to Quang Ninh’s beautiful islands with ease. BestPrice Travel wishes you a safe and memorable holiday!