Ben Beo Pier
Gateway to Viet Hai, known for its floating villages and budget ferry, but beware of aggressive touts and scams.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Catch the local ferry before touts arrive.
Ben Beo Pier
Best Time
Catch the local ferry before touts arrive.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Gateway to Viet Hai, known for its floating villages and budget ferry, but beware of aggressive touts and scams.
"Beware of scammers! Stick to the 50,000 VND local ferry for Viet Hai; it's a great value."
🎯 Beware of Scammers!
Aggressive touts push expensive private tours. Stick to the 50,000 VND local ferry for Viet Hai.
🤝 Pre-book Your Tour
Arrange transport with a tour operator beforehand to avoid scams and ensure a smooth trip.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Local Ferry to Viet Hai
Ben Beo Pier
Experience authentic local life and stunning bay views on the budget-friendly public ferry. A true hidden gem!
Floating Villages
Leaving Ben Beo Pier
Witness unique floating homes and communities as you depart the pier, offering a glimpse into local maritime life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Scams at Ben Beo Pier
Booking Your Viet Hai Trip
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Beware of Scammers!
Aggressive touts push expensive private tours. Stick to the 50,000 VND local ferry for Viet Hai. +2
🤝 Pre-book Your Tour
Arrange transport with a tour operator beforehand to avoid scams and ensure a smooth trip.
💰 Local Ferry is Key
The 50,000 VND public ferry to Viet Hai is a great value and offers scenic views. +1
⏰ Tour End Times
Most tours conclude around 4 PM, so plan your return accordingly.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Beware of Scammers!
Aggressive touts push expensive private tours. Stick to the 50,000 VND local ferry for Viet Hai. +2
🤝 Pre-book Your Tour
Arrange transport with a tour operator beforehand to avoid scams and ensure a smooth trip.
💰 Local Ferry is Key
The 50,000 VND public ferry to Viet Hai is a great value and offers scenic views. +1
⏰ Tour End Times
Most tours conclude around 4 PM, so plan your return accordingly.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ben Beo Pier is a transit point often marred by aggressive touts pushing expensive private tours, leading to frustration for many tourists. While the pier itself offers views of floating villages, the experience of accessing transport, particularly the local ferry to Viet Hai, can be challenging due to perceived scams and discriminatory practices. +2
"I will recount my experience today at this port, specifically regarding the CAT BA-VIET HAI route, which was the one I intended to take. Upon arrival at the port in the morning, we sought to take a day trip to Viet Hai village and return the same day. It is readily apparent online that a public ferry route exists, with a purported cost of 40,000 to 50,000 VND per person per trip. While it is true that the public ferry route operates, it appears to be exclusively for local residents. Individuals not affiliated with the port approached us, offering a private boat taxi service for 800,000 VND one way (approximately $30). We declined, opting instead to board the public ferry alongside other passengers. However, we were denied permission to do so.
When inquired about the reason, we were falsely informed that specific documentation was required (contrary to fact, as only a valid visa and passport are necessary). We requested the relevant government-approved document outlining the purported restriction on non-local individuals accessing public ferries. Initially, we were told that such a document existed, but it was subsequently denied to us. This constitutes an entirely fabricated and unlawful practice, devoid of any legal basis.
As an attorney, I formally requested a written complaint to be submitted to the embassy, detailing the specific grounds for the port authorities' refusal to assist us. This is a right to which we are entitled, and their failure to comply will be pursued through legal channels in Hanoi, where numerous embassies are located and corruption is reportedly less prevalent.
Ultimately, we were informed that the document referencing the alleged law would not be provided, but a formal explanation would be forthcoming. However, despite a two-hour wait, this justification never materialized.
This incident constitutes a punishable offense under the laws of Vietnam, encompassing discriminatory practices, deceitful conduct, and a lack of cooperation. I intend to pursue legal action, as previously stated, on the grounds of discriminatory behavior. The purpose of this review is to inform prospective tourists interested in utilizing public ferry services of their rights under the 2013 Vietnamese Constitution.
During my travels, I have witnessed numerous instances of irregularities specifically targeting tourists. My objective is to prevent others from falling prey to these practices, particularly the solicitation of "private taxi" services (often unlicensed). By doing so, tourists can access public transportation to which they are lawfully entitled.
This route is particularly popular among visitors to Cat Ba National Park who opt to hike to Viet Hai Park. Unfortunately, many will encounter the same issue when attempting to return from Viet Hai port to Cat Ba, being told that the public ferry does not exist or that they lack the requisite documentation. I advise against engaging with these practices. Through further investigation, I have found that prices for these services increase annually.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable journey, it is essential to be aware of one's rights. I encourage travelers to educate themselves and exercise their entitlements."
Nina Rodriguez
"Not the best port, best to have things arranged before with a tour before you show up as there's not really staff to be on hand to provide much knowledge, plus it will also stop you from getting ripped off by one of the locals. Take a look at my photos for some info on the tours available. Most tours start to end around 4pm. There are some nice areas to go and see. You will also see floating villages just when leaving the harbour.
Best of luck and happy traveling."
Haptic 404
"Great terminal that will get you were you want to go at different prices depending on who you speak to. Watch out for scammers! The lady with the visor!!! If your headed to Viet Hai take the local ferry for only 50,000 it will take about 45 mins and he usually stops off at local floating homes to deliver goods and drop people off! If your looking for the secret Bay cruise this is it! You get the same views as the 700,000 boat tours on the local ferry and you can explore Viet Hai as an added bonus!"
Daniel Kennington
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ben Beo Pier is a short taxi or motorbike ride from Cat Ba town. Many travelers opt for a quick taxi, which should be relatively inexpensive.
While there isn't direct public bus service to the pier itself, local buses operate within Cat Ba island, and you can connect to a taxi or motorbike from the main town.
The primary options from Ben Beo Pier are local ferries to nearby islands like Viet Hai, or private boat tours. Be wary of unsolicited offers. +1
Yes, you can drive your motorbike to Ben Beo Pier. There is usually parking available, though it may come with a small fee.
The most economical and authentic way is the local ferry for 50,000 VND. Private boats are significantly more expensive. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The local ferry to Viet Hai village costs approximately 50,000 VND per person. This is a fraction of the cost of private boat tours. +1
For the local ferry, advance booking is generally not required, but arriving early in the morning is recommended to avoid issues with touts. +1
There are typically no entrance fees to access Ben Beo Pier. Fees may apply for specific boat tours or national park access.
The local ferry typically runs in the morning. It's best to arrive early to ensure you can board before it departs.
While officially for locals, the public ferry is accessible to tourists, but you may face resistance from touts trying to sell private tours. Be persistent and firm. +2
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Ben Beo Pier is primarily a departure point for boat trips. You can see floating villages as you leave and experience the local hustle.
It can get crowded, especially in the morning with people trying to catch ferries and touts soliciting business. Mornings are busier than afternoons. +1
The floating villages are communities of houses built on rafts and boats, offering a unique glimpse into a traditional way of life on the water.
Basic facilities like ticket counters and waiting areas are usually available, but don't expect extensive amenities.
Be firm with touts, research prices beforehand, and if possible, book tours through your accommodation or a reputable agency. +2
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the bustling activity of the pier, the unique floating villages, and the scenic karst landscapes as you depart on a boat.
Early morning light can be beautiful, but be mindful of the crowds and touts. Late afternoon might offer softer light with fewer people.
Absolutely! The local ferry offers excellent vantage points for photographing the bay, floating villages, and the journey itself.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is useful for capturing both wide bay views and details of the pier activity. A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes.
The best views are often from the boats themselves, offering panoramic shots of the bay and the floating structures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Opting for the local ferry to Viet Hai is a more budget-friendly and potentially less chaotic option than a private tour. The journey itself, passing by floating villages, can be an interesting experience for children, offering a unique view of local life. Ensure you have snacks and drinks, as amenities at the pier are limited.
💰 Budget Travelers
Research prices beforehand and be firm in your negotiations. If possible, travel with a group to share costs if you do opt for a private boat, but always aim for the local ferry first. Many travelers find the local ferry offers a more authentic experience anyway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Viet Hai Ferry Situation
Travelers have reported being told that tourists are not allowed on the public ferry or that specific documentation is required, which is often fabricated. The price difference is stark: the local ferry costs around 50,000 VND, while private boats can charge 800,000 VND or more for a one-way trip. This discrepancy has led to accusations of discriminatory practices and scams targeting tourists.
To mitigate these issues, it's highly recommended to arrange your transport to Viet Hai through your accommodation or a reputable tour operator in Cat Ba town before arriving at Ben Beo Pier. This proactive approach can help you secure a spot on the local ferry or a fairly priced private option, and avoid the stressful encounters with touts.
The Experience of Floating Villages
These villages offer a glimpse into a traditional way of life that is deeply connected to the sea. You'll see fishing nets, aquaculture farms, and the daily routines of the residents. Some local ferries even make stops to deliver goods or drop off passengers, providing a closer look at this unique lifestyle.
While the primary purpose of Ben Beo Pier is transit, the visual spectacle of these floating communities is an integral part of the experience. It's a reminder of the diverse ways people adapt to their environment and a photogenic aspect of the Cat Ba archipelago.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit