Operating since 1888, this iconic ferry service was founded by an Indian businessman, Dorabjee Naorojee, under the name Kowloon Ferry Company. In 1898, it was renamed Star Ferry (天星小輪) – inspired by Naorojee’s fascination with celestial navigation.
For much of the 20th century, the ferry was the primary link between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island, long before the Cross-Harbour Tunnel (1972) and the MTR (1979) provided alternatives. The service continues today.
The short ride – just a few minutes – captures Hong Kong SAR’s energy, juxtaposing the city’s futuristic skyline with the timeless rhythm of the sea. With a fleet of twelve ferries, the company operates two routes across the harbour, carrying over 70,000 passengers per day, or 26 million per year.
One of the ferry’s most unique traits is its double-ended design. This highly efficient MO was introduced in 1897, allowing the boats to be piloted from opposing ends, eliminating the need to switch directions after each journey. The passenger chairs, made of wood, feature an adjustable back that swings back and forth in accordance with the direction of the boat.
Beyond its practicality, the Star Ferry is deeply woven into Hong Kong SAR’s cultural fabric. It represents a bygone era, a time when the city's growth was driven by maritime trade and colonial influences.
The 1966 Star Ferry Riots, sparked by a fare increase, marked one of Hong Kong SAR’s earliest large-scale social movements, further cementing the ferry’s place in local history.
The ferry has been featured in films, literature and art, symbolising both the city's resilience and its ever-changing skyline.
What makes the Star Ferry truly iconic is its enduring visual and emotional appeal. The vessels, with their distinct green-and-white livery, offer one of the most affordable yet breathtaking views of Victoria Harbour, especially at sunset.
For locals, the ferry is a nostalgic reminder of Hong Kong SAR’s past, while for tourists, it continues to be a must-experience slice of the city’s heritage. “It’s an experience comparable to the Eiffel Tower, or the Sydney Harbour Bridge,” says Richard Welsey, director of the Hong Kong Maritime Museum.
Story Idea: Claudia Chan Shaw
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References
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Star_Ferry
https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/star-ferry-hong-kong-history/index.html
Images
1. Star Ferry. Photo credit: kiwiinoz via flickr
2. The first Morning Star. Credit: Evntoa
3. Star Ferry logo
4. Meridian Star. Credit: 颐园新居
5. Star Ferry token
6. Photo credit: kiwiinoz via flickr
7. Star Ferry routes
8. Star Ferry riots covered by South China Morning Post, 7 April 1966
9. Film poster for The World of Susie Wong, 1960
