Star Ferry ride across Victoria Harbour
Classic, short ferry crossing offering iconic waterfront views of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. The Star Ferry is both a functional transport link and a cultural experience — an inexpensive way to see the skyline, feel the harbour breeze and capture photos at sunrise, sunset or during the nightly light show.
Location
Victoria Harbour — Star Ferry piers (Central Pier ↔ Tsim Sha Tsui Pier), Hong Kong (Central and Tsim Sha Tsui), Hong Kong SAR
Duration
8–10 minutes one-way. Allow 20–40 minutes for wait plus boarding and disembarkation for a round trip or combined sightseeing.
Best Time to Visit
Year-round. Best months: October–April for clearer skies and cooler weather. For dramatic views: go at sunset or after 20:00 to catch the nightly Symphony of Lights.
Pricing
Approximate fares (subject to change): HKD 3–4 (lower deck) and HKD 4–6 (upper deck) one-way for adults. Concessions for children, students and seniors. Payment: Octopus card accepted; cash sometimes accepted but exact change recommended. Check official Star Ferry website for current fares.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Panoramic views of Hong Kong Island skyline (Central) and Kowloon skyline (Tsim Sha Tsui)
Short, authentic Hong Kong experience — operating since 1888
Affordable way to see the harbour and take skyline photos
Easy access to attractions: Central (Hong Kong Observation Wheel, IFC), Tsim Sha Tsui (Avenue of Stars, museums, shopping)
Great vantage point for the nightly Symphony of Lights (starts at 20:00)
Itinerary
Arrive at the Star Ferry pier (Central or Tsim Sha Tsui).
Buy a single-journey ticket or tap your Octopus card. Check departure times on signage — ferries run frequently.
Queue and board the ferry; choose lower deck for sheltered seating or upper deck for open-air views.
Upper deck is recommended for photography and skyline views; during bad weather the lower deck is sheltered and comfortable.
Enjoy the crossing across Victoria Harbour.
Scan both skylines — Hong Kong Island on one side, Tsim Sha Tsui and Kowloon on the other. For the Symphony of Lights, head to the Tsim Sha Tsui side.
Disembark and continue sightseeing — promenades, museums, malls, or return trip.
Allow extra time during peak tourist hours and evenings.
Safety Requirements
Follow crew instructions and pier signage when boarding and disembarking.
Hold on to children and personal belongings on the open decks — harbour spray and wind can be strong.
Passengers with reduced mobility should use designated access points; check pier staff for assistance.
Do not lean over railings. Wear appropriate non-slip footwear when decks are wet.
Service may be suspended in severe weather or typhoon conditions—check announcements.
Tips
Use an Octopus card for fastest boarding and best convenience.
Upper deck for photos and fresh air; lower deck if you prefer seating and shelter.
Go just before sunset for golden-hour photos or after 20:00 for the Symphony of Lights.
Bring a light jacket — harbour breezes can be chilly year-round.
If you want quieter crossings, avoid weekday rush hours (morning/evening commuter peaks).
Combine with a promenade walk: Central Piers, Central Harbourfront, Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade and Avenue of Stars.
Check the official Star Ferry timetable and fares before travel — prices and schedules can change.
