EditorialSustainable ferry services vital for Hongkongers on outlying islands

The city must find an operation model that guarantees viable services without breaking the bank for island residents

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Passengers enjoy the view on a ferry from Central to Cheung Chau on October 2, 2025. Photo: Dickson Lee

Published: 6:45am, 16 Mar 2026

Fare increases might be inevitable as Hong Kong sets a course towards a brighter future after the recent economic doldrums. However, as transport authorities propose price rises on six key ferry routes, efforts to ensure operators stay afloat must be balanced with exploration of ways to diversify their revenue streams so fares remain affordable.

It is good that the government has acted as a pragmatic gatekeeper, rejecting an initial operator request for increases of up to 30 per cent. However, the proposed rises of up to 12.8 per cent remain significant for working-class and elderly passengers.

District councillors representing outlying islands, where ferries are the sole mode of transport, are understandably concerned about the negative impacts of the increases on travel and local economies. They also fear further rises in response to soaring fuel prices.

The Transport Department briefed council members on Tuesday about the fare adjustment proposals for key ferry routes providing access to Cheung Chau, Lamma Island, Mui Wo and Peng Chau, among others. They are expected to take effect on April 1.

The first revision in nearly three years would, for example, boost the Monday through Saturday price of a one-way adult ticket on the Central-Yung Shue Wan route from HK$22.10 (US$2.80) to HK$24.90.

Two routes would have their regular and high-speed ferry fares consolidated, but more affordable options for those not in a rush would no longer be available. A HK$2 flat fare for those aged 60 or above would also be swapped for pricier concessions.

.css-1c6uqr6{color:inherit;font-weight:inherit;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;line-height:inherit;overflow-wrap:break-word;}The city must find an operation model that guarantees viable services without breaking the bank for island residents

The city must find an operation model that guarantees viable services without breaking the bank for island residents