One of Hong Kong’s best-loved institutions, the Star
Ferries have plied between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island since 1888. The
portly green and white 1950s and 60s relics are still used by commuters
despite the advent of rail and road tunnels beneath the harbour. A ferry
ride offers a thrilling perspective on the towering skyscrapers and the
jungle-clad hills of Hong Kong Island. Take an evening voyage for the
harbour’s neon spectacle, especially the elaborate light displays at
Christmas.
Ferries 6:30am–11pm daily Frequency varies from 6 to 12 minutes Ferry tours of the harbour also available
www.starferry.com.hk
2367 7065
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The HKTB office in the
Tsim Sha Tsui Star ferry building is the most convenient place to pick
up brochures, get help and advice, and to buy Star Ferry models and
other souvenirs.
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The Pacific Coffee
Company inside the terminal serves a reasonable cup of coffee.
Alternatively try the fresh lemonade and free cookie samples from Mrs
Fields.
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Top 10 SightsThe Fleet In
the early days, four coal-fired boats went back and forth between Hong
Kong and Kowloon. Today 12 diesel-powered vessels operate, each named
after a particular star (with the night-time glare and pollution, they
may be the only stars you’re likely to see from the harbour).
Clocktower Standing
next to the Tsim Sha Tsui Star Ferry, the landmark clocktower is the
last remnant of the old Kowloon railway terminus. This was the poetic
final stop for trains from the mainland, including the Orient Express
from London. The terminus has since moved east to prosaic Hung Hom.
Star Ferry Crew Many
Star Ferry crew members still sport old-fashioned sailor-style
uniforms, making popular subjects for camera-toting visitors. Watch out,
too, for the pier crewmen catching the mooring rope with a long
billhook. Star Ferry Routes The
Star Ferries run four routes: between Tsim Sha Tsui and Central; Tsim
Sha Tsui and Wanchai; Central and Hung Hom; and Hung Hom and Wanchai.
Skyline South As
you cross Victoria Harbour, on the far left are the glass and flowing
lines of the Convention Centre in Wanchai and above it the 373-m
(1,223-ft) tower of Central Plaza. Further left are the Bank of China’s
striking zig-zags, and the struts and spars of the HSBC building. The
new kid on the block is Two International Finance Centre , for now the island’s tallest skyscraper at a colossal 420 m (1,378 ft).
Victoria Harbour Victoria
harbour is the busiest stretch of water in Hong Kong, teeming with
activity. Keep your eyes peeled at the weekend for the last remaining
batwing sailing junk to be found in this part of China. Sightseeing Bargain At HK$1.70 to ride on the lower deck and HK$2.20 to ride the top deck, the Star Ferry is Hong Kong’s best sightseeing bargain. Ferry Decks The
lower and upper decks used to be first (upper) and second (lower) class
compartments. Today the extra cents buy access to the air-conditioning
section during the hottest months, and afford a better view of the city
and refuge from sea spray on choppy days.
Ocean Terminal Just
north of the Tsim Sha Tsui terminal, Hong Kong’s cruise ships dock,
including the world’s most famous liners. Some US warships also dock
here during port calls.
Skyline North As
you approach Kowloon with Hong Kong Island behind you, you’ll see the
Arts and Cultural Centre, closest to the shore. Behind it rises the
grand extension of the Peninsula Hotel and the tapering tower at No. 1
Peking Rd. The craggy hills of the New Territories loom in the
background.
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