Star Ferry crossing of Victoria Harbour
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Star Ferry - by Raymond W from Pixabay
Description
The Star Ferry service between Tsim Sha Tsui and Central or Wan Chai dates back to the late 19th century and is operated by the namesake company, which was created in 1888 and originally used steamboats. Until the opening of the Cross Harbour Tunnel in 1972, it was the main means of public transportation between Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon side. The harbour crossing has both historic and sight-seeing value: it is really cheap and one of the best ways to take in the Central or Kowloon skyline and is even more spectacular at night when the skyscrapers are illuminated. At the end of the 10-minute journey, a hemp rope is cast from the back of the boat and caught with a billhook, the way it was in 1888 when the first boat docked. There is also a 1 hour harbour tour option available which is priced like a real tourist attraction.
Access & Transport
On Kowloon side, the boat leaves from the Tsim Sha Tsui Star Ferry Pier towards either Central Piers or Wan Chai Pier and the same 2 routes are also operated from Hong Kong Island side towards Tsim Sha Tsui. All 3 locations are easy to get to by taxi or public transport: Tsim Sha Tsui, East Tsim Sha Tsui on the TST side and Central or Hong Kong MTR stations for Central Pier (Wan Chai Pier has no MTR very close by).
Instructions & Recommendations
It is best to use the service as a way to link visits on each of the Kowloon and Hong Kong Island sides and, considering the price, it makes sense to try it both ways - or also experience a longer harbour cruise with either the Star Ferry Company or another operator, maybe in the eveningfor the best skyline views. This activity is best combined with the Avenue of Stars, one of the museums near the TST promenade, the Maritime Museum in Central Pier #8 and/or a visit to Central and Mid-levels.
Environmental & Social
The boats are powered by diesel electric engines so there is some degree of carbon footprint but i) it is a very short "cruise" cruise and ii) on a per passenger basis it is not that energy intensive. We deem this activity to be marginally positive from a social perspective as it helps retain a small aspect of the city's historical heritage
Conclusion
The Star Ferry cross-harbour service is both historic and iconic - it also provides tourist and commuters with great views and some fresh air (as opposed to the underground option) at a very modest price. It may be excessively advertised in magazines, but if you want to go from Hong Kong Island to Kowloon (or vice-versa) it is worth using the service at least once.
Key positive
Historic aspect: the only means of public transport between Kowloon and HK Island for a long time
An original way to commute
Very affordable and conveniently located
Key negative
None
Suitability
This activity will suit everybody, including children. Accessible for people with reduced mobility (lower deck only).
About this Rating
TYPE
Onsite
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 15m
est. visit time:0h 30m
Monday06:30 - 23:30
Tuesday06:30 - 23:00
Wednesday06:30 - 23:30
Thursday06:30 - 23:30
Friday06:30 - 23:30
Saturday06:30 - 23:30
Sunday06:30 - 23:30