The cruise port of Hong Kong offers convenient access to transportation options that make sightseeing easy to organize independently. Here are the most popular ways to get around Hong Kong when visiting on a cruise.
Facts about Hong Kong Cruise Terminal
The Hong Kong cruise terminal is also known as Ocean Terminal. It is located on the Kowloon Peninsula which is also the location of the outdoor markets and upscale shopping on Nathan Road. The cruise terminal is also within walking distance of the ferry terminal where passengers can take the Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour over to Hong Kong Island, the location of the Peak Tram.
Transportation Options in Hong Kong
MTR Train – The MTR train is an efficient way to get around Hong Kong. The closest station to the cruise terminal is called, Tsim Sha Tsui. The MTR operates the Airport Express as well as routes to Disneyland Resort and Lantau Island. The Tourist Day Pass includes one day of unlimited travel on the MTR for HK$ 55 (US$ 7).
Star Ferry – From the Tsim Sha Tsui Ferry Pier (adjacent to the cruise terminal) on the Kowloon Peninsula, passengers can take the ferry to the Central Star Ferry Pier on Hong Kong Island. Cost is less than US$ 1 each way and departs about every ten minutes.
Double Decker Bus – The city bus is an inexpensive way to see the city at less than US$ 1 per fare. Buses operate from early morning until midnight.
Hong Kong Escalators – The mid-level escalators in the Central district of Hong Kong Island are the longest outdoor escalators in the world. Their purpose is to move Hong Kong workers from the suburbs above, down to the downtown area. In the morning the escalator moves downhill and in the afternoon the escalator moves uphill, moving workers back home. It’s a free tourist attraction.
Peak Tram – The Peak Tram is a steep funicular railway that has been in operation since 1888. This is a popular way to see Victoria Peak as it takes eight minutes to get to the top with views of Hong Kong Island, Kowloon and Victoria Harbour. It operates from 7 a.m. until midnight and departs every ten to 15 minutes. The cost is HK$ 40 for a return ticket (US$ 5).
Cruise Transportation and Transfers from Hong Kong Airport
Cruise Shuttle to Hong Kong Airport – For cruises that start or end in Hong Kong, most cruise lines offer a transfer that includes some type of sightseeing, too. For example, Holland America offers a bus tour that includes a stop at a jewellery workshop and a tram ride up to Victoria Peak before transferring to the airport. The HAL website indicates that the tour lasts 4.5 hours and costs US$ 51-$100.
Taxi from Hong Kong Airport – To get to Ocean Terminal from the Hong Kong Airport, a taxi will take about 40 minutes and HK$ 230 (US$ 30).
Airport Express Train from Hong Kong Airport – To get to Ocean Terminal from the Hong Kong Airport, the Airport Express Rail will take about 30 minutes from Kowloon Station. It’s about a five-minute drive from Ocean Terminal to Kowloon Station. The Airport Express Travel Pass costs HK$ 220 (US$ 28) and includes three consecutive days of unlimited travel on the MTR.
A handful of Asia cruises in 2012 will visit Hong Kong. Passengers may choose to book their transportation and excursions directly with the cruise line or opt to book their transfers and sightseeing tours independently. For passengers that want to explore mainland China, a Chinese Tourist Visa is needed.
+Renee Ruggero visited Hong Kong in 2000. Other sources include Ocean Terminal and Hong Kong Tourism.
Renee Ruggero - Renee is a published travel writer and cruise industry insider with more than 1,000 days on cruise ships, visiting over 50 countries.
