Established in 1960, the Bai Chay Ferry Terminal stands as one of Quang Ninh’s pioneering transportation landmarks. It historically connected both banks of the Cua Luc River, which flows directly into the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage waters of Halong Bay. For over four decades, the terminal operated continuously, facilitating the journeys of local residents and discerning travelers from both Vietnam and around the globe.
Read more: The Ultimate Guide to Traveling in Bai Chay – From A to Z
Throughout its operational history, the Bai Chay Ferry Terminal encountered numerous profound challenges. During the wartime era, it became a frequent target of American military attacks aimed at severing vital supply and reinforcement routes heading to the southern battlefield. Historical records show that between 1964 and 1972, the terminal endured 17 targeted bombings, resulting in severe human casualties and structural devastation. Countless soldiers, officials, and civilians made the ultimate sacrifice or sustained injuries during these harrowing air raids. Yet, through the unwavering courage and resilience of the local people and armed forces, the terminal was repeatedly restored to service. Beyond maintaining seamless transportation lines, the Bai Chay Ferry Terminal also managed dozens of specialized voyages transporting military weaponry and equipment to northeastern island outposts, decisively supporting the combat readiness and daily lives of soldiers stationed offshore. Honored three times (in 1965, 1968, and 1972) with the prestigious title of Hero of the People’s Armed Forces, the terminal remains a timeless symbol of the nation’s indomitable spirit during the resistance era.
In the peaceful years that followed, the Bai Chay Ferry Terminal faced mounting pressures driven by rapid developments in tourism and modern transport infrastructure. With an escalating volume of vehicles and commuters, the aging ferry system could no longer satisfy the demands of travelers and residents alike. Chronic congestion, heavy traffic overloads, and frequent accidents began to compromise both traffic safety and the destination’s high standards of hospitality. According to longtime local residents, travelers often endured hours of waiting simply to cross the river. Furthermore, the high volume of ferry traffic contributed significantly to environmental concerns through vehicle emissions and waste accumulation.
To resolve these pressing logistical challenges, the architectural marvel known as the Bai Chay Bridge was inaugurated in 2007, gracefully assuming the ferry’s historic role of connecting the two banks of the river. Spanning 1,106 meters in length and 25 meters in width with six modern lanes, the Bai Chay Bridge not only revolutionized regional connectivity but has also become a striking visual landmark enhancing the picturesque scenery of Halong.
