From your cruise port to Ninh Binh 1 day with our driver - Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

We Rank Ha Long Bay’s 9 Top Private Driver Services

Ha Long Bay is a stunning place to explore, especially if you want flexibility and personal attention. While many travelers cruise the bay on organized tours, hiring a private driver opens up entirely new ways to see the region—whether that’s a quick transfer from your cruise port or a full day of adventure. For example, a half-day trip from your cruise port to Hanoi offers a chance to stretch your legs with kayaking or bamboo boat rides, making the experience more interactive. Plus, round-trip hotel transfers mean you don’t have to hassle with taxis or public transport.

The beauty of these services is that they’re tailored to your interests. Want to see Titov Island, go kayaking in Luon Cave, or visit Sung Sot Cave? Many of these tours are flexible enough to accommodate your preferences, providing a more authentic experience than a cookie-cutter group tour. Whether you’re short on time or want a full-day adventure, a private driver can make Ha Long Bay and its surroundings more accessible and enjoyable.

Quick Overview

Our list features a mix of half-day, full-day, and transfer services—from quick trips to Hanoi to comprehensive Bay cruises with activities like kayaking, cave visits, and swimming. Some tours focus on sightseeing, while others emphasize active experiences, all with the convenience of pre-arranged transportation. You’ll find options for group and private tours, and some include meals, like a Vietnamese set-menu lunch. For a closer look at each, check the links below.

1. From your cruise port to Hanoi 1 day with our driver

From your cruise port to Hanoi 1 day with our driver

If your cruise docks at Halong International Cruise Port, this private driver service offers a practical way to spend a day in Hanoi. It’s a half-day tour with round-trip transfers, so you can explore Hanoi’s streets or attractions at your own pace. The drive takes about 2 hours each way, and the driver can help customize your itinerary—whether you want to visit the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, or temples. You can also opt for kayak or bamboo boat rides in the bay, which adds a fun, active element.

This tour has a 4.5/5 rating from 65 reviews, highlighting its reliability and convenience. It’s perfect if you want to see Hanoi for a few hours without the hassle of arranging transport yourself. The flexibility to tailor your visit and the inclusion of hotel transfers make this a good choice for travelers who value comfort and simplicity.

Bottom line: An excellent option for those docked at the port who want a quick, personalized Hanoi experience without complicated logistics.

2. Halong Bay Full Day With Cave, Kayaking, Swimming, Highway Transfer

This full-day tour is a hands-on, activity-packed way to see the highlights of Halong Bay. It starts with a pickup in Hanoi and includes a scenic drive on the newest expressway, saving time and allowing you to spend more on the activities that matter. The tour features Titov Island—great for swimming and hiking—a visit to Sung Sot Cave, and kayaking near Luon Cave.

The tour stands out because it combines adventure and sightseeing with a traditional Vietnamese lunch on the boat. The kayaking or bamboo rowing is free, adding an active element that many travelers appreciate. The 5-star reviews reflect its value, especially for those interested in a comprehensive day on the bay. The English-speaking guide enhances the experience by sharing insights into the area’s geology and history.

Bottom line: Ideal for active travelers and families seeking a full day of bay exploration with convenient transportation and multiple highlights.

3. From your cruise port to Ninh Binh 1 day with our driver

From your cruise port to Ninh Binh 1 day with our driver

For those with a taste for natural beauty beyond the bay, this day trip to Ninh Binh offers a different perspective. It includes a 4-hour drive from the Halong International Cruise Port and visits to Trang An Grottoes or Tam Coc, both impressive karst landscapes and caves. The tour features sampan boat rides, allowing you to admire the striking scenery up close.

If you’re interested in exploring Vietnam’s landscapes and cultural sites, this tour offers a well-rounded experience with the added convenience of private transfers. The all-inclusive packages with lunch make it especially appealing for travelers who want an easy, stress-free day.

Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting to combine scenic boat rides with cultural exploration, just a bit further from the typical bay route.

4. Private Transfer: Cat Bi Airport to/from Ha Long, Tuan Chau

Private Transfer: Cat Bi Airport to/from Ha Long, Tuan Chau

This private transfer service is the best choice if you’re arriving at Cat Bi Airport or departing from Tuan Chau. It’s straightforward transportation—an air-conditioned vehicle, up to 2 people, for about an hour. No fuss, no waiting in line, just reliable service to keep your trip stress-free.

It’s an excellent option for travelers who value comfort and punctuality over sightseeing. The 5-star rating and the fixed price make it a dependable choice, especially if you’re arriving late or catching a flight.

Bottom line: Ideal for quick, hassle-free airport transfers, ensuring your trip starts or ends smoothly.

$60.00 per group (up to 2)

5. Hanoi Private Transfer from Tuan Chau Island to Hanoi (HAN) airport

Hanoi Private Transfer from Tuan Chau Island to Hanoi (HAN) airport

If your journey continues beyond Ha Long Bay, this private transfer to Hanoi Airport offers peace of mind. It’s a reliable, comfortable ride with a driver who confirms your schedule in advance. The up to 15-person group size makes it perfect for families or small groups.

During the 2.5-hour drive, you’ll avoid the hassle of taxis and enjoy a smooth ride. Past travelers mention the service as “easy to arrange and reliable,” which is exactly what you want when catching a flight.

Bottom line: Best suited for travelers needing a dependable, comfortable transfer from Tuan Chau to Hanoi Airport, with minimal stress.

$101.09 per group (up to 3)

6. Private Transfer from Ha Long to Haiphong (HPH) Airport

Private Transfer from Ha Long to Haiphong (HPH) Airport

This transfer service is similar to the airport transfer above but for Haiphong Airport. It’s a short, one-hour ride in a premium vehicle, designed for groups up to 15. Pre-booking guarantees a timely pick-up, and recent reviews confirm the service as “easy and on time.”

Perfect if your international flight departs or arrives through Haiphong, offering a stress-free, private ride that gets you where you need to go comfortably.

Bottom line: A practical, reliable transfer for travelers heading to or from Haiphong Airport.

$55.28 per group (up to 3)

7. Alova Premium Cruise Halong Deluxe Day Tour with Transfer & Meal

This full-day cruise from Hanoi includes round-trip transfers, making it a hassle-free way to see Halong Bay’s highlights. It features stops at Ti Top Island, Luon Cave, and Sung Sot Cave. You’ll enjoy a Vietnamese set-menu lunch and time on deck to relax or take in the views. The boat offers indoor and outdoor viewing areas, perfect for different weather conditions.

What makes this trip stand out is the combination of comprehensive sightseeing, good food, and comfortable transportation, with a rating of 4.5/5. This tour is especially suited for travelers who want a well-organized day with scenic stops, without sacrificing comfort.

Bottom line: Excellent for travelers who want a reliable, full-service cruise experience with transport, meals, and multiple activity stops.

8. Halong Bay Full-Day Trip Expressway Transfer & Full Activities

Short on time but want a full day in Halong Bay? This expressway transfer tour offers a condensed but activity-rich itinerary. It includes hiking, kayaking, swimming, and a visit to Sung Sot Cave. The lunch is a seafood set menu, and the boat’s indoor outdoor spaces let you relax after a busy day.

It’s a budget-friendly option, rated 4.5/5, with positive reviews emphasizing the serenity and informative guides. The convenience of optional transfer from Hanoi makes it adaptable for different schedules.

Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want an active, comprehensive day trip without breaking the bank.

9. Best Seller Halong Full Day Tour All Included Expressway Transfer

This best-selling tour offers a full-day experience with all logistics taken care of, including roundtrip transfer from Hanoi, visits to Sung Sot Cave, Titop Island, and kayaking. It features a Vietnamese-set lunch and a sunset viewing. The itinerary is designed to maximize your time, with plenty of opportunities for active exploration.

Rated 3.5/5, it’s a good value for travelers who want a structured, all-in-one experience that covers many highlights efficiently. The feedback notes it as a “perfect for the price and time” option, making it a popular choice for first-timers.

Bottom line: Best for travelers seeking a comprehensive, worry-free day with a focus on must-see spots.

How to Choose Your Perfect Private Driver Service in Ha Long Bay

When selecting your private driver experience, consider your budget, interests, and time constraints. For quick visits, the cruise port to Hanoi trip offers a flexible way to see the city. If you want active exploration, full-day bay cruises with kayaking are great. For seamless airport transfers, services at Cat Bi or Haiphong are reliable and straightforward.

Think about whether you prefer a more structured tour like the Alova Premium Cruise or a customized experience that lets you pick your stops. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure the best times and vehicles.

Final Thoughts

Ha Long Bay’s private driver services provide a range of options—whether you’re after a short transfer, an active full-day tour, or simply a stress-free ride to the airport. For travelers with limited time, the full-day cruises with transfers offer excellent value, combining sightseeing and comfort. For those seeking flexibility, a private transfer for airport or port logistics is ideal.

If you want to blend activity with scenery, options like the Halong Bay Full Day With Cave, Kayaking, Swimming tour hit the mark. Meanwhile, travelers who prioritize convenience should consider services like the Cat Bi Airport transfer—reliable and no-fuss. Booking early ensures you’ll have your preferred options secured and ready to make your Ha Long Bay experience smooth and memorable.