Star Ferry, Hong Kong - A sunset picture of the Star Ferry docking at the pier in Kowloon.
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Star Ferry, Hong Kong

4.5
·1k reviews·, Hong Kong

Ride Hong Kong's iconic Star Ferry for breathtaking Victoria Harbour views at an unbeatable price. A must-do for any visitor!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, soft light

CrowdLow
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Star Ferry, Hong Kong - A sunset picture of the Star Ferry docking at the pier in Kowloon.

Star Ferry, Hong Kong

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, soft light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ride Hong Kong's iconic Star Ferry for breathtaking Victoria Harbour views at an unbeatable price. A must-do for any visitor!

4.5
(1k reviews)

"It's seriously one of the cheapest ways to enjoy HK Harbour view but this is insane."

Vertical photo
TIP

💳 Use Octopus Card

Speed up boarding by using an Octopus card; cash lines can be very long . :admission_tickets:

📸 Prime Photo Spots

Head to the upper deck for unobstructed views and the best photo opportunities of the skyline . :iphone:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Victoria Harbour Views

Victoria Harbour Views

Across Victoria Harbour

Panoramic vistas of Hong Kong's iconic skyline, from Kowloon to Hong Kong Island. A truly unforgettable sight.

Symphony of Lights

Symphony of Lights

Victoria Harbour

Witness the dazzling nightly light and sound show that transforms the harbor into a vibrant spectacle.

Affordable Scenic Journey

Affordable Scenic Journey

Tsim Sha Tsui to Central/Wan Chai

Experience one of the world's most scenic commutes for just a few Hong Kong dollars. A budget traveler's dream!

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Iconic Ride

The Star Ferry is a quintessential Hong Kong experience, offering breathtaking harbor views at an unbeatable price. Opt for an Octopus card for faster boarding, especially during peak times, as cash lines can get long.Reddit

Timing is Everything

To capture the best photos and avoid the biggest crowds, aim for early mornings or late evenings. The Symphony of Lights show is a must-see spectacle that illuminates the harbor nightly.TikTok

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, soft light
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings (during Symphony of Lights)
Why
Spectacular light show
Crowd
High
When
Weekdays, off-peak hours
Why
Smoother boarding experience
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Hop aboard the iconic Star Ferry for a picture-perfect harbourview of the city! 🌆 Check out our 5 essential hacks for an unforgettable experience and securing the prime photography spots! 📸⛴️ #Discove...
@discoverhongkong
40.8K likes • 7.3M views

💳 Use Octopus Card

Speed up boarding by using an Octopus card; cash lines can be very long.Reddit :admission_tickets:

📸 Prime Photo Spots

Head to the upper deck for unobstructed views and the best photo opportunities of the skyline.TikTok :iphone:

Victoria Harbor is a Hong Kong Top Attraction from where you can enjoy views of harbour, skyscrapers and Avenue of Stars, Star Ferry, Symphony of Lights. #victoriaharbour #victoria #hongkong #hongkon...
fozia_in_china
12 likes • 779 views
Exploring the city with the Fall 2025 Incoming Exchange Students📸 Crossing the Victoria Harbour by the Star Ferry✅ Posing like Bruce Lee at the Avenue of Stars✅ Conquering the 268 steps to Tian Tan B...
abroadathkust
118 likes • 4.5K views

✨ Symphony of Lights

Catch the nightly light show from the ferry for a magical harbor experience. Starts at 8 PM daily. :sparkles:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Both Sides

The ferry connects two distinct vibes: Kowloon's bustling streets and Hong Kong Island's modern cityscape. :world_map:

Exploring Hong Kong on the Star Ferry with @Insta360’s GO 3S! ⛴️✨ As someone who’s a bit shy about vlogging, this pocket-sized camera is perfect for me! Its small size allows me to film without drawi...
adventureswithaman
106 likes • 3.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

💳 Use Octopus Card

Speed up boarding by using an Octopus card; cash lines can be very long.Reddit :admission_tickets:

📸 Prime Photo Spots

Head to the upper deck for unobstructed views and the best photo opportunities of the skyline.TikTok :iphone:

✨ Symphony of Lights

Catch the nightly light show from the ferry for a magical harbor experience. Starts at 8 PM daily. :sparkles:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Both Sides

The ferry connects two distinct vibes: Kowloon's bustling streets and Hong Kong Island's modern cityscape. :world_map:

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You might do some walking before and after the ferry, so comfortable footwear is key. :athletic_shoe:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Travelers consistently praise the Star Ferry for its incredibly low cost and breathtaking views of Victoria Harbour, calling it an iconic and essential Hong Kong experience. While some mention crowded conditions and potential queues, most agree the short, scenic journey is well worth it for the unforgettable vistas and nostalgic charm.

"• Star Ferry offers a unique way to experience Hong Kong. The view of the skyline, especially at night, is simply breathtaking.

• It’s a short ride but packed with charm, history, and stunning scenery.

• It was a bit crowded on the day I visited, but the ride was still smooth and enjoyable. A must-try experience, especially if you want to see the city from the water."

Pongpit Pinsai

"Excellent place where to embark or disembark the ferry. Enjoying that beautiful cruising between parts of the city on ferry is always a great idea. Sometimes could more crowded but that's the magic of this place as well. Thank you and hopefully see you soon again 🤩"

Ales Tvrdy

"It's a 10-minute boat ride to the central area. 50 HK$ one way. A relaxing time."

He Iwa

What People Like

Incredible harbor views
Extremely affordable fares
Iconic Hong Kong experience

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Longer cash queues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The main terminals are in Tsim Sha Tsui (Kowloon) and Central/Wan Chai (Hong Kong Island). You can easily reach them via MTR (subway) or bus. From Tsim Sha Tsui, follow signs towards the waterfront. On Hong Kong Island, the Central terminal is near IFC Mall and the Wan Chai terminal is east of Central.

Absolutely! Both the Tsim Sha Tsui and Central/Wan Chai terminals are well-connected by Hong Kong's efficient MTR system and numerous bus routes, making it very easy to access.

The Star Ferry is not only the most scenic but also a very convenient and affordable way to travel between Kowloon (Tsim Sha Tsui) and Hong Kong Island (Central/Wan Chai). It's a must-do for first-time visitors.Reddit

Yes, the primary routes are between Tsim Sha Tsui and Central, and Tsim Sha Tsui and Wan Chai. Both offer fantastic harbor views and are very similar experiences.

The ferry crossing itself is quite short, typically around 7-10 minutes, offering a quick yet incredibly rewarding journey across Victoria Harbour.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Star Ferry tickets are incredibly affordable, often costing just a few Hong Kong dollars (HKD) for a one-way trip. Prices are subject to change but remain one of the cheapest ways to enjoy the harbor.Reddit

Yes, you can purchase tickets with cash at the ticket booths. However, using an Octopus card is highly recommended as it significantly speeds up boarding, especially during busy periods.Reddit

No, advance booking is not necessary for the Star Ferry. Tickets are readily available at the terminals, and you can simply purchase them on the spot.

The Star Ferry operates for long hours, typically from early morning (around 6:30 AM) until late at night (around 11:30 PM), ensuring you can enjoy the ride at almost any time of day.

Historically, there was a slight difference, with the upper deck costing a bit more. However, both offer excellent views, and the price difference is minimal, making the upper deck a popular choice for better photo opportunities.TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings offer soft, golden light and fewer crowds. Evenings are spectacular for capturing the illuminated skyline and the Symphony of Lights show.TikTokInstagram

The upper deck provides the most unobstructed views. Try to secure a spot near the railings on either side for the best panoramic shots of the harbor.TikTok

Any camera or smartphone can capture great shots. For vlogging or discreet filming, smaller cameras like the Insta360 GO 3S are ideal.Instagram Wide-angle lenses are great for capturing the expansive skyline.

Absolutely! The Symphony of Lights is a prime photography subject. Ensure your camera settings are adjusted for low light to capture the vibrant colors and light beams effectively.

Generally, personal photography is allowed and encouraged. However, professional or commercial filming might require permits, so it's best to check with the Star Ferry company if you have specific needs.

🎫 💡 Insider Tips

To avoid long queues, use an Octopus card.Reddit If it's crowded, gently push upwards to find space on the upper deck. Consider riding during off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience.Reddit

Yes! The ferry is a perfect link between Tsim Sha Tsui (Avenue of Stars, museums) and Hong Kong Island (Central's business district, trams, Peak Tram). Many visitors combine it with a visit to the Peak or the Avenue of Stars.InstagramReddit

Definitely! Riding the ferry during the 8 PM Symphony of Lights show offers a unique perspective of the dazzling display across the harbor. It's a magical experience.Instagram

Bring your camera or phone for photos, an Octopus card for easy boarding, and perhaps a light jacket if traveling in the evening as it can get breezy on the water.

While the ferry itself is primarily for transport, some ferries may have small kiosks selling basic snacks and drinks. For a more elaborate experience, consider afternoon tea on a ferry combined with The Peninsula Hong Kong.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Star Ferry is a fantastic and budget-friendly activity for families. Kids are often mesmerized by the boats and the vastness of the harbor. It's a short, exciting ride that won't bore younger travelers. The affordability means you can take multiple trips without breaking the bank.

Pro-tip: Aim for daytime rides when kids can easily spot ships and landmarks. The upper deck offers a great view, and there's usually enough space for families to stand together. Consider bringing small snacks or drinks for the short journey, though they are sometimes available for purchase onboard.Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Star Ferry is an absolute must. It's consistently cited as one of the cheapest ways to experience Hong Kong's iconic harbor views.Reddit The fare is minimal, making it an easy addition to any itinerary without impacting your wallet.

Recommendation: Use your Octopus card for the quickest boarding and to avoid fumbling with change. Combine the ferry ride with free activities like exploring the Avenue of Stars or enjoying the Symphony of Lights for a full day of incredible sights without significant expense.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Star Ferry offers unparalleled photographic opportunities of Hong Kong's world-famous skyline. The upper deck provides unobstructed panoramic views, perfect for capturing the cityscape from dawn till dusk.TikTok

Key advice: Visit during the golden hours for stunning light. Don't miss the Symphony of Lights show at 8 PM for a chance to photograph the harbor illuminated. Consider a camera with good low-light performance or utilize your smartphone's night mode for the best results.Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Star Ferry: A Hong Kong Icon

The Star Ferry is more than just a mode of transport; it's a beloved Hong Kong icon that has been ferrying passengers across Victoria Harbour since 1898. Its distinctive green and white ferries are a familiar sight, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the city's past while providing unparalleled views of its futuristic skyline.Instagram The company operates two main routes: Tsim Sha Tsui to Central, and Tsim Sha Tsui to Wan Chai. Both journeys are incredibly short, typically lasting only about 7-10 minutes, but the visual rewards are immense.

Many travelers consider the Star Ferry ride to be a mandatory activity for any first-time visitor to Hong Kong, often citing it as one of the cheapest ways to experience the city's stunning harbor.Reddit The affordability, coupled with the breathtaking scenery, makes it a universally appealing experience. The upper deck is particularly popular for its unobstructed views, making it a prime spot for photography and simply soaking in the atmosphere.TikTok

Beyond the scenic commute, the Star Ferry plays a vital role in connecting the vibrant districts of Kowloon and Hong Kong Island. It offers a unique perspective on the city's dual nature – the bustling commercial hubs and the more traditional, yet equally captivating, waterfronts. For many, the gentle sway of the ferry and the panoramic views create a sense of calm amidst the city's energetic pace.Instagram

Capturing the Magic: Photography on the Star Ferry

Victoria Harbour is a photographer's paradise, and the Star Ferry provides the perfect vantage point to capture its magic. The iconic skyline of Hong Kong, with its towering skyscrapers, is best viewed from the water. For the most dramatic shots, aim for the golden hours – early morning for soft, warm light and fewer crowds, or late afternoon as the city lights begin to twinkle.TikTokInstagram

The Symphony of Lights, a nightly laser and sound show, is a highlight for many visitors and a fantastic subject for evening photography. Riding the ferry around 8 PM allows you to witness this dazzling spectacle from the heart of the harbor.Instagram Remember to bring a camera with good low-light capabilities or use your smartphone's night mode to capture the vibrant colors and light beams effectively. The upper deck offers the best, unobstructed views, so try to snag a spot by the railing.TikTok

For those looking to document their journey, even smaller, discreet cameras like the Insta360 GO 3S can be incredibly useful for capturing dynamic footage without being intrusive.Instagram Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just snapping pics with your phone, the Star Ferry offers endless opportunities to create stunning visual memories of Hong Kong's breathtaking harbor.

Navigating the Crowds: Tips for a Smooth Ride

While the Star Ferry is incredibly popular, navigating the crowds can be managed with a few smart strategies. Octopus cards are your best friend for a quick boarding experience. Many travelers report that the cash lines can be significantly longer, especially during peak tourist seasons or weekends.Reddit Having an Octopus card means you can tap and go, saving valuable time.

If you find yourself on a crowded ferry, don't despair. Redditors suggest that if the lower deck is packed, you can often find more space by gently pushing upwards to the upper deck, which usually offers better views anyway.Reddit Consider traveling during off-peak hours – early mornings or late evenings (outside of the Symphony of Lights rush) – for a more relaxed and less congested journey. This also provides a more intimate experience of the harbor's beauty.

Remember that the ferry connects two major hubs, so expect a steady flow of passengers. Be patient, be observant, and utilize the tips shared by fellow travelers to ensure your Star Ferry experience is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. The short ride is well worth any minor inconvenience.

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