The Star Ferry Hong Kong

The Star Ferry is a famous green-and-white boat service that’s shuttled folks across Victoria Harbour since 1888. It’s not just transport—it’s a moving postcard of Hong Kong. For under $10, you get killer skyline views of skyscrapers and mountains. Locals use it daily; travelers call it a "best thing to do in HK"

Opening Hours: 6:30 AM-11:30 PM Address: Tsim Sha Tsui Star Ferry Pier

The Star Ferry HK Tickets

  • Shining Star Cruise Ticket

    14:45 Departure/17:45 Departure(Star Ferry Victoria Harbour) or 19:45 Departure(A Symphone of Light Show)

  • Star Ferry 1-Way Ticket + Bigbus 1-Day Pass

    (Stanley/Hong Kong Island/Kowloon Tour) (Multiple Options Available)

  • Star Ferry round-trip ticket + Bigbus 1-Day Pass

    (Stanley + Hong Kong Island + Kowloon Tour) (Multiple Options Available)

The Star Ferry HK Nearby Hotels

  • The Royal Pacific Hotel and Towers

    No.33 Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Yau Tsim Mong District, Hong Kong, China

  • The Langham, Hong Kong

    No.8 Peking Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Yau Tsim Mong District, Hong Kong, China

  • The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong

    No.1 Austin Road West (International Commerce Centre), Yau Tsim Mong District, Hong Kong, China

Star Ferry Hong Kong Reviews

4.5/5
200 reviews
5/5
During this trip, I squatted by the roadside and collected many fallen leaves of different shapes. When I got back to my accommodation, I spread them out on the table and pieced them together into strange little patterns. I used palm-shaped sycamore leaves to create the outline of a kitten, and used small osmanthus petals as its whiskers. After finishing, I pressed them into a thick book to make dried flowers. I used slender willow leaves to create a string of floating musical notes, and used small red petals as dots for the notes. When I placed them by the window, the wind seemed to make me hear the light melody. I used round banyan leaves to create the shape of a small sun, and used yellow leaf fragments to create sunlight spots. When I placed them on the table, even the light in the room seemed to become warmer. Over the course of a few days, I created more than a dozen different leaf puzzles. None of them were exquisite handicrafts. Every leaf was picked up by hand along the way, and every pattern contained the silly, happy moments of squatting by the roadside playing with the leaves. This feeling of collecting and playing with small fragments of nature is much more therapeutic than buying a bunch of souvenirs.
review picture
5/5
Very convenient. We got our tickets at the ticket office at the pier using our last name. Departure was on time, and the journey took about 45 minutes, plenty of time to enjoy the views. The trip on the vintage ferry was fascinating.
review picture
5/5
Drying winter vegetables in late autumn is a delightful and savory experience during a rural trip. The harvested cabbages and radishes are washed, chopped, and spread out on bamboo trays to dry in the yard. The wind slowly dehydrates them, and once dried, they are pickled, making a particularly refreshing side dish with porridge in winter. Helping the host family turn the vegetables over and dry them in the warm autumn sun, watching the greens slowly dry, and the whole yard filled with their fresh aroma—this sense of security and preparation for winter is incredibly comforting.
review picture
5/5
Autumn is a poetic time for travel. Maple leaves turn red, ginkgo leaves turn yellow, and the entire mountainside is bathed in warm hues. Stepping on the thick layer of fallen leaves makes a rustling sound, and the air is dry and cool, making every breath feel refreshing. Find an open spot to sit and watch the distant mountains layered upon each other, their colors varying from light to dark, like a painting. The sun seems to soften, warming your skin and lifting your spirits.
review picture
5/5
Every trip brings back a wealth of memories—perhaps a bag of local specialties, a stack of photos, or simply a flood of cherished recollections. These things may seem insignificant, but they can be revisited time and again in the ordinary days that follow, reminding you of the joy and relaxation of the trip and rekindling your love for life. Travel is never a waste of time; it's about nourishing your life, allowing you to go further and more steadily.
review picture
Hong Kong Star Ferry

If you’ve seen postcards of Hong Kong, chances are you’ve spotted the HK Star Ferry. This classic boat service isn’t just a way to get around—it’s a piece of Hong Kong’s soul. For over a century, it’s shuttled locals and visitors across Victoria Harbour, offering unbeatable views of the skyline at a steal. Let’s break down everything you need to know to ride it like a pro.

What is the Hong Kong Star Ferry?

What is the Hong Kong Star Ferry?

Credit: Star Ferry HK Official

The Star Ferry is one of the most popular landmarks in Hong Kong. Since 1888, these white and green double-decker ferries have been shuttling across Victoria Harbour, connecting Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. It is not merely a means of public transportation: commuters rely on it to travel quickly and cheaply, and tourists love it because they can sit in the front row of Hong Kong's famous skyline - think of towering skyscrapers on one side and the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade on the other. Even National Geographic magazine has called it one of the "50 Places to Visit in a Lifetime".

Key Fact

Details

History

Started in 1888; one of the oldest ferry services in Hong Kong.

Vibe

Classic double-decker boats with wooden seats (upper deck) and a relaxed feel.

Claim to Fame

Affordable, scenic rides across Victoria Harbour; a symbol of Hong Kong’s heritage.

The Star Ferry HK Online Ticket
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How to Get to Star Ferry Hong Kong (Nearest MTR)?

The Star Ferry piers are easy to reach by Hong Kong’s MTR (subway) system. Here’s how to get to each:

Pier Name

Nearest MTR Station

MTR Exit

Walking Time

Central Ferry Pier 7

Central

A or B

5-7 mins

Wan Chai Ferry Pier

Wan Chai

A1

8-10 mins

Tsim Sha Tsui Pier

Tsim Sha Tsui

L6

3-5 mins

From the MTR exit, just follow signs to the “Star Ferry” or “Harbour”—you can’t miss it.

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Which Piers Does the Hong Kong Star Ferry Serve?

Hong Kong Star Ferry Pier Destinations

Credit: Star Ferry HK Official

The Star Ferry connects 3 major piers. Each pier is located in a bustling area of the city. If you are going to work or sightseeing, these docks can take you to where you need to go.

  • Central Ferry Pier 7: Located on Hong Kong Island, it is just a few steps away from landmarks such as the Central business district, shops and the International Finance Centre.
  • Wan Chai Pier: Also located on Hong Kong Island, it is close to the bars, restaurants and Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai.
  • Tsim Sha Tsui Pier: Located in Kowloon, close to the Avenue of Stars, the Victoria Harbour waterfront and the shops on Nathan Road.

Pier Name

Location

What’s Nearby?

Central Ferry Pier 7

Hong Kong Island

Central MTR, IFC Mall, Bank of China Tower

Wan Chai Ferry Pier

Hong Kong Island

Wan Chai MTR, Causeway Bay, Victoria Park

Tsim Sha Tsui Pier

Kowloon

Avenue of Stars, Tsim Sha Tsui MTR, Harbour City

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How to Ride Star Ferry Hong Kong?

How to Ride Star Ferry Hong Kong

Credit: Star Ferry HK Official

Taking the Star Ferry is easy - no special steps are required. Here is how it works:

  • Head to the pier of your choice (Central, Wan Chai or Tsim Sha Tsui).
  • Buy a ticket (or swipe your Octopus card at the entrance).
  • If you want to see more clearly, you can walk to the upper deck of the ferry. If you prefer shade, you can walk to the lower deck.
  • Find a seat, relax and enjoy the short trip across the harbour.
  • When you arrive, get off the ferry and head to the next stop.

It is so simple that even beginners won't feel confused. Just follow the signs on the pier - they are very clear and easy to find.

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What Are the Costs for Hong Kong Star Ferry Ferry-Only Tickets?

Hong Kong Star Ferry Ticket Counter

Buy a cheap Star Ferry ticket for a scenic journey

The ticket for the Star Ferry HK is very cheap and is one of the best ticket deals in Hong Kong. The price depends on the deck (the upper deck is slightly more expensive), the day (weekday vs weekend/holiday), and who rides (adults, children, the elderly, etc.).

Ticket Type

Weekdays (Mon-Fri)

Weekends & Holidays

Adult (Upper Deck)

$5.0

$6.5

Adult (Lower Deck)

$4.0

$5.6

Child (3-12)

$2.8-$2.9

$3.7-$3.9

Senior (65+)

$2.8-$2.9

$3.7-$3.9

Disabled Passengers

$2.8-$2.9

$3.7-$3.9

Monthly Ticket

$190 (unlimited rides)

Same

4-Day Tourist Ticket

$50 (unlimited rides)

Same

If you want to try more tours and attractions, please check the Trip.com Star Ferry HK ticket packages (with reviews) below!

Star Ferry Hong Kong Tours & Reviews
4.5/5
200 reviews
5/5
During this trip, I squatted by the roadside and collected many fallen leaves of different shapes. When I got back to my accommodation, I spread them out on the table and pieced them together into strange little patterns. I used palm-shaped sycamore leaves to create the outline of a kitten, and used small osmanthus petals as its whiskers. After finishing, I pressed them into a thick book to make dried flowers. I used slender willow leaves to create a string of floating musical notes, and used small red petals as dots for the notes. When I placed them by the window, the wind seemed to make me hear the light melody. I used round banyan leaves to create the shape of a small sun, and used yellow leaf fragments to create sunlight spots. When I placed them on the table, even the light in the room seemed to become warmer. Over the course of a few days, I created more than a dozen different leaf puzzles. None of them were exquisite handicrafts. Every leaf was picked up by hand along the way, and every pattern contained the silly, happy moments of squatting by the roadside playing with the leaves. This feeling of collecting and playing with small fragments of nature is much more therapeutic than buying a bunch of souvenirs.
review picture
5/5
Very convenient. We got our tickets at the ticket office at the pier using our last name. Departure was on time, and the journey took about 45 minutes, plenty of time to enjoy the views. The trip on the vintage ferry was fascinating.
review picture
5/5
Drying winter vegetables in late autumn is a delightful and savory experience during a rural trip. The harvested cabbages and radishes are washed, chopped, and spread out on bamboo trays to dry in the yard. The wind slowly dehydrates them, and once dried, they are pickled, making a particularly refreshing side dish with porridge in winter. Helping the host family turn the vegetables over and dry them in the warm autumn sun, watching the greens slowly dry, and the whole yard filled with their fresh aroma—this sense of security and preparation for winter is incredibly comforting.
review picture
5/5
Autumn is a poetic time for travel. Maple leaves turn red, ginkgo leaves turn yellow, and the entire mountainside is bathed in warm hues. Stepping on the thick layer of fallen leaves makes a rustling sound, and the air is dry and cool, making every breath feel refreshing. Find an open spot to sit and watch the distant mountains layered upon each other, their colors varying from light to dark, like a painting. The sun seems to soften, warming your skin and lifting your spirits.
review picture
5/5
Every trip brings back a wealth of memories—perhaps a bag of local specialties, a stack of photos, or simply a flood of cherished recollections. These things may seem insignificant, but they can be revisited time and again in the ordinary days that follow, reminding you of the joy and relaxation of the trip and rekindling your love for life. Travel is never a waste of time; it's about nourishing your life, allowing you to go further and more steadily.
review picture

Which Routes Does Hong Kong Star Ferry Operate?

Hong Kong Star Ferry Routes

Star Ferry routes are simple, fast, and scenic

The Star Ferry has two main routes, both connecting Kowloon and Hong Kong Island:

  • Central ↔ Tsim Sha Tsui: The busiest route, popular among commuters and tourists. This is the fastest way to travel between Central (the commercial center of Hong Kong Island) and Tsim Sha Tsui (a tourist hotspot in Kowloon).
  • Wan Chai ↔ Tsim Sha Tsui: This route is relatively quiet and connects Wan Chai (famous for its nightlife and activities) with Tsim Sha Tsui.

Route

Start Pier

End Pier

Best For?

Central-Tsim Sha Tsui

Central Pier 7

Tsim Sha Tsui Pier

Skyline views, quick city crossings

Wan Chai-Tsim Sha Tsui

Wan Chai Pier

Tsim Sha Tsui Pier

Exploring Wan Chai or quieter rides

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What Are Star Ferry Hong Kong’s Schedule and Crossing Time?

The Star Ferry runs early morning to late night, with more frequent trips during rush hours. The ride itself is short—only 6 to 10 minutes, depending on the route and harbour traffic.

Route

Days

Operating Hours

Frequency (Mins)

Ride Duration

Central-Tsim Sha Tsui

Mon-Fri

6:30 AM – 11:30 PM

6-12 (rush hours: 6)

~6-8 mins

Weekends/Holidays

6:30 AM – 11:30 PM

6-12

~6-8 mins

Wan Chai-Tsim Sha Tsui

Mon-Sat

7:30 AM – 11:00 PM

8-20 (rush hours: 8)

~8-10 mins

Weekends/Holidays

7:40 AM – 11:00 PM

12-20

~8-10 mins

How to Buy a Star Ferry Ticket?

Buying Star Ferry HK tickets is very simple - you have several options:

  • Ticket offices: Ticket offices are available at each pier, selling one-way tickets (cash or Octopus cards).
  • Octopus Card: Tap your Octopus card at the entrance (as is applicable to most public transport in Hong Kong).
  • Monthly pass/Four-day pass: Available for sale at the control room near the Tsim Sha Tsui Pier Nai Ma Shao Bing.

There's no need to make a reservation in advance - just buy it when you arrive. If you want to try more tours and attractions, please check the Trip.com Star Ferry HK ticket packages below.

🎁 Book cheap flights to HK | Search the best HK hotels! Just 1 click for fast Data in HK!

What Are the Star Ferry HK Shining Star & Combo Tickets?

If you’re looking for more options, the Shining Star cruise and combo tickets (with bus tours) are popular choices. Here’s Trip.com Star Ferry HK ticket packages.

Ticket Type

Adult Price (From)

Savings

Shining Star Cruise Ticket

$27.84

$1.47

Star Ferry 1-Way + Bigbus 1-Day Pass

$49.02

$2.58

Star Ferry Round-Trip + Bigbus 1-Day Pass

$68.35

$3.00

Book Star Ferry HK Online
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What Are the Facilities & Floor Plan of the Hong Kong Star Ferry?

What's inside the Start Ferry Hong Kong

Credit: Star Ferry HK Official

The "World Star" is no ordinary ferry. It was built in 1989. After an upgrade, it was equipped with a diesel-electric engine, retaining the classic appearance of the Star Ferry (thanks to a decorative chimney), while offering more interior space. The interior of the upper deck is now larger and has an open layout, so you can see no obstruction from one end to the other.

The layout of Star Ferry Hong Kong

Credit: Star Ferry HK Official

The facilities include comfortable air-conditioned carriages, a cafe where you can have drinks or snacks, and glass curtain walls that make sightseeing easy - no need to stretch your neck to look at the skyline. If you want to breathe fresh air, there is also a sunny platform here. It can accommodate 408 people and is spacious enough for you to move around and find the perfect place.

Feature

Details

Year Built

1989

Size

46m length, 9.3m breadth, 352 gross tons

Capacity

408 passengers

Key Facilities

Air-conditioned compartments, café, glass-curtain walls, sun deck

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FAQs about Hong Kong Star Ferry

Bethy

Bethy

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Hey there! I’m Bethy (Huang Lan, 黄澜) – a travel enthusiast and content creator for Trip.com. I live as a digital nomad, mostly based in China, and I’ve also lived in awesome places across Southeast Asia and Eastern Europe. I love traveling all over the world, sharing useful travel tips and guides for fellow wanderlusters. When I’m not on the road, I’m a huge cat lover and play guitar for fun~

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