By ferry: is essential to visit one of the inhabited islands such as Cat Ba or Tuan Chay. Ferries depart from the coastal ports of Hong Gai and Bai Chay, with several departures daily. With the waters of Halong Bay usually calm and serene, the ferry schedule is very reliable and services rarely cancelled due to bad weather.

By boat cruise: this is the most popular and rewarding way to see Halong bay and get to its many islands. Good value tours are numerous, offering two, three and four night excursions on motorised, replica junks that sleep up to 20 people. These all depart from Hai Phong and are part of an all inclusive tour which includes a four hour transfer from Hanoi.

By bus: is a popular method of reaching the Halong Bay area from Hanoi. There are public buses in addition to a myriad of minibuses and private coaches operated by Hanoi tour operators. The trip takes around four hours one way.