Editorial | Star Ferry can remain afloat with fare rises

A lifeline has finally been thrown to Hong Kong’s iconic Star Ferry with government approval of fare increases the 125-year-old service desperately needs to continue sailing across Victoria Harbour. Authorities said rises going into effect on April 3 should allow the company to break even or turn a small profit within two years.

Social and commercial headwinds created by the pandemic whipped up waves of setbacks for the transport operator. Star Ferry has lost nearly half of its paying passengers since 2018, leaving it sinking under massive losses. It was swamped in debt exceeding its total assets as of late 2022.

The increases to head off a farewell to the Star Ferry were revealed the same week as the launch of a global “Hello Hong Kong” promotional campaign to lure back visitors. It is encouraging to see support for a key part of the city’s brand and an important sightseeing experience for locals and tourists alike. As we have argued before, the city’s oldest form of public transport also well complements new attractions such as the West Kowloon arts hub.

Star Ferry will also continue to be among the most affordable forms of transport in the city. Adults riding on the upper deck from Central to Tsim Sha Tsui will pay HK$5 (US$0.64) on weekdays, 56 per cent more than the current fare. Lower deck seats will be HK$4 and the highest weekend fares will be HK$6.50.

While the Executive Council did not go along with the company’s request to double fares, the decision-making body agreed to end free trips for the elderly and disabled. They will now be able to ride for HK$2 under the government’s public transport scheme.