Ninh Binh Boat Ride: A Guide to Vietnam’s Hidden Gem

If you are looking for a unique and unforgettable experience in Vietnam, you should not miss the Ninh Binh boat ride. This is a scenic and relaxing way to explore the stunning landscapes of Ninh Binh, a province in northern Vietnam that is often called the “Halong Bay on land”.

Ninh Binh is famous for its karst formations, rice paddies, pagodas, and caves. The best way to enjoy these natural wonders is by taking a boat ride along the rivers and canals that wind through the countryside. You will be amazed by the views of the towering limestone cliffs, the lush green fields, and the tranquil villages.

In this blog post, I will share with you everything you need to know about the Ninh Binh boat ride, including:

How to get to Ninh Binh from Hanoi
How to choose the best boat ride option
What to expect from the boat ride
What to bring and wear for the boat ride
What to do after the boat ride

How to get to Ninh Binh from Hanoi

Ninh Binh, situated approximately 100 km south of Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, offers various transportation options tailored to your preferences and budget.

Opting for the train is not only the most comfortable choice but also provides picturesque views of the countryside during the approximately 2-hour journey. A one-way ticket costs around 80,000 VND ($3.5), and you can conveniently book online or at the Hanoi train station. Upon arrival at the Ninh Binh train station, located roughly 7 km from the town center, you can easily reach your destination by taking a taxi or a motorbike taxi.

For a budget-friendly and swift alternative, consider the bus, which covers the distance in just 1.5 hours at a cost of around 60,000 VND ($2.6) for a one-way ticket. Buses departing from the Giap Bat or Nuoc Ngam bus stations in Hanoi will drop you off at the Ninh Binh bus station, about 2 km from the town center. From there, walking or taking a taxi or motorbike taxi to your hotel or the boat ride location is a convenient option.

If flexibility and adventure are your priorities, the private car or motorbike option allows you to explore the surroundings at your own pace. Renting a car for the 2.5-hour drive along Highway 1A costs around 300,000 VND ($13), while a motorbike rental is priced at 150,000 VND ($6.5) per day.

How to choose the best boat ride option

Ninh Binh beckons with three distinct boat ride options: Tam Coc, Trang An, and Van Long:

Tam Coc

Opting for Tam Coc guarantees a bustling and renowned adventure, guiding you through Ninh Binh’s iconic sights. The journey kicks off at Tam Coc Wharf, a mere 9 km from the town center. A nimble wooden boat, steered by a local woman skillfully using her feet, accommodates up to four passengers.

The two-hour expedition is priced at 195,000 VND ($8.5) per person, complemented by a 120,000 VND ($5.2) entrance fee. Traverse three caves, marvel at the famed Mua Cave with its pagoda and panoramic vistas, and if you’ve got the time and energy, consider a post-ride ascent of the 500 steps to the pagoda.

Trang An

In contrast, Trang An offers a diverse journey, unveiling a UNESCO World Heritage Site that seamlessly blends nature and culture.

Setting off from Trang An Wharf, a convenient 7 km from the town center, a more spacious and comfortable boat, manned by a local adept with his hands, awaits up to six passengers. The three-hour exploration is priced at 200,000 VND ($8.7) per person, with an additional 80,000 VND ($3.5) for the entrance fee.

Traverse 12 caves and 3 temples connected by meandering rivers and canals, with the bonus of exploring the Kong: Skull Island film set after your nautical adventure.

Van Long

For those seeking a tranquil and authentic encounter, Van Long beckons, ushering you into Vietnam’s largest wetland reserve.

Departing from Van Long Wharf, positioned 17 km from the town center, a cozy bamboo basket boat, navigated by a local woman using a paddle, accommodates up to two passengers. The serene 1.5-hour journey is priced at 75,000 VND ($3.3) per person, accompanied by a modest 20,000 VND ($0.9) entrance fee.

Traverse a vast expanse of water, reeds, and limestone cliffs, with the potential to spot diverse bird and animal species, including the elusive Delacour’s langur protected by the reserve.

What to expect from the boat ride

Before embarking on a boat ride in Ninh Binh, there are a few important things to consider:

The weather greatly affects the experience, with the best months being February to April when the climate is dry and pleasant. It’s recommended to bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and an umbrella or raincoat for unexpected weather.
Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends and holidays, as Ninh Binh is a popular destination. This means long queues for boarding and a busy river with many other boats. You may encounter vendors or beggars on board offering souvenirs or seeking support, but it’s okay to politely decline or ignore them if you’re not interested.
It’s important to recognize that boat drivers have a challenging job that is often low-paid. Tipping is customary and appreciated, usually ranging from 50,000 VND ($2.2) to 100,000 VND ($4.3) per boat, depending on the duration and quality of the ride. Adjust your tip based on your satisfaction and budget.

What to bring and wear for the boat ride

To prepare for a relaxed boat ride, gather essential items like:

A small bag for your phone, camera, wallet, and water bottle.
Bring energizing snacks like fruits, nuts, or cookies and entertainment like books, magazines, or music.
Remember to have cash on hand for expenses such as fees, tips, and souvenirs, as boat ride locations may not have ATMs or credit card machines.
For clothing, choose comfortable and casual options like T-shirts, shorts, or pants.
Avoid skirts, dresses, or jeans that may get wet or dirty.
Opt for easy-to-remove footwear like sandals, flip-flops, or sneakers, especially if there are muddy or rocky paths.
Protect yourself from the sun and heat with a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

What to do after the boat ride

In addition to the awesome boat ride, Ninh Binh has so much more to offer to make your experience unforgettable:

Biking: Get ready to explore the charming countryside and villages of Ninh Binh on a bicycle. Cruise along peaceful roads and paths, taking in the breathtaking scenery and local culture. You can easily rent a bike from your hotel or boat ride locations for just around 50,000 VND ($2.2) per day. If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, why not join a guided bike tour? They’ll take you to amazing spots like Bich Dong Pagoda, Thai Vi Temple, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, and the stunning Phat Diem Cathedral.
Hiking: Are you up for a challenge? Lace up your hiking boots and explore the hills and mountains surrounding Ninh Binh. Discover hidden trails that lead to jaw-dropping viewpoints and hidden gems. Places like Hang Mua Peak, Cuc Phuong National Park, Thung Nham Bird Garden, and Thien Ha Cave await exploring!
Cooking: Ready to dive into the local cuisine and culture? Join a cooking class and learn the art of preparing traditional dishes and specialties. Or visit a local market and farm to get a deeper understanding of the ingredients and techniques that make Vietnamese cooking so special. Get ready to create mouthwatering dishes like goat meat, crispy rice, and eel vermicelli, and don’t forget to try the famous lotus tea!

Conclusion

So, whether you’re a solo traveler seeking solitude, a couple looking for a romantic escape, or a family creating lasting memories, Ninh Binh’s boat ride promises a unique and unforgettable experience. Embrace the serenity, relish the beauty, and let the tranquil waters of Ninh Binh guide you through a journey that will stay with you long after you’ve bid farewell to this Vietnamese wonder.