DIY Haiphong Shore Excursions From The Port
Yes, you can plan your own Haiphong shore excursions without joining the ship’s group tour. With a little preparation, a cruise stop in Haiphong can be a relaxed day of colonial buildings, lively markets, crab noodle soup and sidewalk coffee, all at your own pace. The key is to understand where your ship docks, how long the transfer takes and how much buffer time you need to be back on board.
In this guide, the Haiphong Adventure team shares how DIY shore excursions from the port work, how to get into the city, sample routes for different port times, money and transport tips, and a simple checklist. Port arrangements, berths and prices can change between seasons and cruise lines, so always confirm details with your ship (updated October 2026).
Where Cruise Ships Dock In Haiphong
Most large cruise ships calling at Haiphong use the deep-water port area at Lach Huyen, on Cat Hai island, which links to the mainland by the long Tan Vu to Lach Huyen sea bridge. Some cruise lines list this stop as Haiphong, while others call it a gateway to Ha Long Bay or Hanoi.
- Distance to the city centre. Usually around 40 to 60 minutes by road, depending on the exact berth and traffic.
- Port facilities. Often basic, so do not count on shops, ATMs or a tourist desk at the quay.
- Shuttles. Some ships offer a shuttle bus into the city, sometimes for a fee. Ask at the shore excursion desk before arrival.
- Smaller ships. Occasionally smaller vessels may use berths closer to town. Check your daily programme.
Is A DIY Shore Excursion Right For You
Going independent is a great choice for many travellers, but it is not for everyone. Here is a quick comparison to help you decide.
| Option | Best for | Things to consider |
|---|---|---|
| Fully DIY | Confident travellers who like flexibility | You arrange transport and manage your own timing |
| Private driver or local guide | Couples, families, small groups | Door-to-door from the pier, flexible stops, local knowledge |
| Ship’s group excursion | Travellers who want zero planning | Fixed schedule, larger groups, the ship waits if the tour is late |
If you go fully DIY, remember the ship will not wait for independent passengers. Build in a generous buffer and keep your phone charged.
>>> My Favorite Things To Do In Haiphong On Weekend
Getting From The Port Into Haiphong
Ship shuttle
If your cruise line offers a shuttle, it is usually the simplest way to reach the centre. Note the drop-off point and the last return time, and take a photo of the shuttle stop sign.
Taxi
Taxis sometimes wait near the port gate, but numbers can be limited on busy ship days. Use metered taxis from known companies, agree on the destination clearly and keep small notes for the fare.
Ride-hailing apps
Grab and similar apps work well within Haiphong city. Pickups at the port itself can be harder to arrange, so many travellers take a taxi or shuttle into town, then use apps for short hops between sights.
Pre-booked private car
For peace of mind, book a private car with a driver who meets you at the pier. This is often the most relaxed option for families or anyone with limited mobility.
Sample DIY Routes By Port Time
Short call of 6 to 7 hours
- Transfer to the city. Head straight to the centre.
- Opera House and Tam Bac Lake. See the French colonial landmark and stroll by the lake.
- Crab noodle lunch. Try banh da cua, Haiphong’s signature dish.
- Coffee break. A sidewalk iced coffee before heading back.
- Return early. Aim to be back at the port at least 1 to 1.5 hours before all aboard.
Longer call of 8 to 10 hours
- City highlights. Opera House, Tam Bac Lake and the City Post Office.
- Old streets and markets. Wander the busy trading streets near the Tam Bac River.
- Local lunch. Banh da cua, nem cua be (square crab spring rolls) or banh mi cay.
- Cau Quay swing bridge and murals. A colourful photo stop by the river.
- Pagoda or communal house. Add a peaceful temple visit if time allows.
For a ready-made plan, our half-day Haiphong tour itinerary fits neatly into a port day, and the 24-hour DIY Haiphong tour guide has more ideas if you overnight in port.
Recommended tour
The Insider’s Haiphong
Short on time in port? See Haiphong’s landmarks, hidden alleys and local flavours by motorbike with a friendly local guide who knows the city inside out.
From $79 per person
Going Further From The Port
Some passengers want to see more than the city. These trips are possible, but they need more time and careful planning.
- Do Son beach. A seaside area south of the city, good for a relaxed walk by the sea on a longer call.
- Ha Long Bay. Reachable by road for a short boat trip, but travel time takes a big share of the day. Our guide for Haiphong to Ha Long Bay for cruise passengers explains the options.
- Hanoi. A long day with several hours on the road each way. Best with a private driver and a long port call.
- Cat Ba Island. Ferries make it possible in theory, but schedules and weather add risk. We do not recommend it on a short call.
>>> The Ultimate Haiphong Tour: Top 10 Must-Visit Spots in 2025
Money SIM And Practical Tips
- Cash. Vietnamese dong is used everywhere. Withdraw from ATMs in the city centre, as the port may have none.
- Cards. Accepted in many hotels and cafes, but street food and taxis usually want cash.
- Mobile data. An eSIM or local SIM makes maps and ride-hailing apps much easier.
- Offline map. Download a map of Haiphong before you leave the ship.
- Port address. Save the port name and berth details in Vietnamese on your phone to show drivers.
- Ship contact. Keep the port agent’s phone number from your daily programme.
What To Eat On A Haiphong Port Day
Food is one of the best reasons to go ashore. Haiphong is famous across Vietnam for its seafood and simple, flavourful dishes.
- Banh da cua. Red rice noodles in a crab broth, the city’s signature bowl.
- Nem cua be. Large square crab spring rolls, crispy and generous.
- Banh mi cay. Small, spicy baguette sticks with pate, great for snacking.
- Fresh seafood. Grilled or steamed, best at busy local spots.
- Iced coffee. Strong Vietnamese coffee with condensed milk.
Hungry for more ideas? The private Haiphong tour guide explains how a local can take you to the best eateries in limited time.
>>> My Haiphong Street Food Adventure Local Taste
DIY Shore Excursion Checklist
- Confirm all aboard time and write it on your hand or phone lock screen.
- Check if your ship offers a shuttle and where it stops.
- Carry your cruise card and a photo of your passport.
- Bring cash in Vietnamese dong, water, sunscreen and a hat.
- Save the port name in Vietnamese for drivers.
- Plan to return at least 1 to 1.5 hours before all aboard.
- Have a backup plan, such as a taxi number, if your ride is delayed.
Many of our guests choose a mix: they plan the day themselves but book a local driver or one of our haiphong tours to take the stress out of timing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Haiphong Shore Excursions
Can I explore Haiphong on my own from the cruise port?
Yes. Many passengers take a shuttle, taxi or private car into the city and explore the centre independently. Just allow plenty of time to return.
How long does it take from the port to the city centre?
Usually around 40 to 60 minutes by road, depending on where your ship docks and traffic on the day.
Is there a shuttle from the port?
Some cruise lines provide one, sometimes for a fee. Ask your ship’s shore excursion desk before arrival.
Can I visit Ha Long Bay or Hanoi on a DIY day?
It is possible on a long port call, but most of the day is spent on the road. A private driver makes it safer and easier.
What happens if I am late back to the ship?
The ship does not have to wait for independent travellers. Always return with a generous buffer.
Make The Most Of Your Day In Haiphong
A DIY shore excursion in Haiphong is a rewarding way to see a real Vietnamese port city beyond the tourist trail. Plan your transport, keep an eye on the clock and save room for a bowl of crab noodle soup.
If you would like a local guide or private driver from Haiphong Adventure to meet you at the pier and bring you back on time, just send us a message.
WhatsApp, Viber, WeChat: +84(0)934.555.001
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