A Guide to Ferry Routes Worth Exploring in Hong Kong

Hong Kong's ferry system is not only an important mode of transportation but also a string of scenic lines connecting the city with outlying islands, history with modernity. Below are selected ferry routes along with practical information:

1. Star Ferry (天星小轮)

Route: Tsim Sha Tsui ↔ Central / Tsim Sha Tsui ↔ Wan Chai
Features:
- Rated by National Geographic as one of the "50 Places of a Lifetime," with over a century of history, it is a classic way to experience the views of Victoria Harbour.
- Recommended Time: Evening (to enjoy the sunset over the harbor and the nightly light show "A Symphony of Lights").
Practical Information:
- Fare:
- Upper Deck: Adults HK$4.2 (weekdays) / HK$6.5 (weekends and holidays);
- Lower Deck: Adults HK$3.6 (weekdays) / HK$5.6 (weekends and holidays).
- Frequency: Approximately every 8-12 minutes, operating hours 6:30 AM - 11:30 PM.
- Pier Locations:
- Tsim Sha Tsui Pier: near Clock Tower, Avenue of Stars;
- Central Pier: walkable to IFC, Ferris Wheel;
- Wan Chai Pier: close to Golden Bauhinia Square.

2. Central ↔ Outlying Islands (Cheung Chau, Lamma Island, Peng Chau)

Operating Companies: Hongkong & Kowloon Ferry (HK Ferry), First Ferry

(1) Central ↔ Cheung Chau

Features:
- Cheung Chau is famous for its fishing village charm, Captain Zhang Bao Cave, the Bun Scrambling Festival during the Taiping Qingjiao celebrations, and seafood restaurants.
- Recommended Activities: Cycling to Tung Wan Beach, exploring the Beidi Temple, tasting mango glutinous rice balls.
Practical Information:
- Journey Time: About 30-55 minutes (regular ferry/high-speed ferry);
- Fare: HK$14.4-41.8 (regular class);
- Frequency: Daily 6:00 AM - 11:45 PM, every half hour during peak times.

(2) Central ↔ Lamma Island (Yung Shue Wan/Sok Kwu Wan)

Features:
- The third largest outlying island in Hong Kong, known for its hiking trails, beaches, and Western-style cafes.
- Recommended Route: Yung Shue Wan Pier → Hung Shing Ye Beach → hike to Sok Kwu Wan (total about 1.5 hours).
Practical Information:
- Journey Time: Central to Yung Shue Wan about 25 minutes (high-speed ferry);
- Fare: HK$18.6-25.9;
- Frequency: Daily 7:20 AM - 11:30 PM.

(3) Central ↔ Peng Chau

Features:
- A lesser-known outlying island preserving traditional industrial sites (such as abandoned match factories), suitable for tourists who prefer tranquility.
- Recommended Activities: Ascend Finger Hill for panoramic views, visit the Dragon Mother Temple.
Practical Information:
- Journey Time: About 25-40 minutes;
- Fare: HK$15.9-30.9;
- Frequency: Daily 7:20 AM - 11:45 PM.

3. Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Shuttle Bus (via SkyPier)

Route: Hong Kong International Airport (SkyPier) ↔ Macau / Zhuhai
Features:
- Combines ferry and bus, seamlessly connecting to the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, ideal for multi-city tours.
Practical Information:
- Ticket Purchase: At the "Fast Ferry to Mainland/Macau" counter within the airport restricted area;
- Journey Time: Airport to Macau about 45 minutes, to Zhuhai about 50 minutes;
- Fare: HK$270-380 (including bus transfer).

4. Victoria Harbour Water Taxi

Route: Customized routes (e.g., Hung Hom ↔ Central ↔ West Kowloon)
Features:
- Private charter or fixed schedules, suitable for high-end tourists or groups, can arrange night cruises around Victoria Harbour.
Practical Information:
- Fare: One-way HK$200-500 per person (depending on route and service);
- Operation Hours: Requires prior reservation.

Transportation and Practical Tips

1. Payment Methods:
2. Cash, Octopus card, Alipay/WeChat Pay (available at some piers);
3. Download the "Citymapper" or "KMB·LWB" app to check real-time schedules.
4. Weather Impact: Ferry services may be suspended during typhoon season (May-September), so check announcements from the Hong Kong Observatory before departure.
5. Luggage Restrictions: Ferries allow luggage, but it must be placed in designated areas.
6. Tour Suggestions:
7. Combine visits to nearby attractions such as the Ferris Wheel and PMQ in Central;
8. For outlying island tours, allocate at least half a day to a full day.