Photo: T1NH0 ( talk ) / CC BY-SA 3.0
For travellers exploring the Pearl River Delta, the Hong Kong Macau Ferry terminal is your gateway between two of Asia’s most dynamic cities. Located on the Hong Kong side at the Shun Tak Centre in Sheung Wan, this bustling hub offers fast and frequent catamaran services to Macau. The journey takes about one hour, offering glimpses of the South China Sea and the dramatic skyline of both cities. Whether you’re heading to Macau for its UNESCO-listed historic centre, world-class casinos, or Portuguese-Asian fusion cuisine, the ferry is the most efficient and scenic way to travel.
Highlights & What to See
- TurboJET & Cotai Water Jet – The two main ferry operators provide comfortable, air-conditioned catamarans with onboard snacks and drinks. Opt for the premium class for wider seats and a quieter lounge.
- Sheung Wan Neighbourhood – Before or after your ferry, explore the dried seafood street (Des Voeux Road West) and the antique shops of Hollywood Road, just a short walk away.
- Macau Ferry Terminal Viewpoint – Grab a coffee at the terminal’s upper-level café and watch the constant stream of ferries arriving and departing against the backdrop of Hong Kong Island’s skyscrapers.
- Macau’s Historic Centre – Once you arrive, the must-see sights include the Ruins of St. Paul’s, Senado Square, and the A-Ma Temple, all easily reachable from the Macau Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal.
- Macau’s Culinary Scene – Don’t miss trying Portuguese egg tarts (pastéis de nata) at Lord Stow’s Bakery or the iconic pork chop bun at a local café.
Suggested Time to Spend
Allow a full day for a round-trip from Hong Kong to Macau. The ferry crossing itself is about one hour each way, so you’ll have at least 6–7 hours in Macau. For a relaxed pace, catch an early morning ferry (around 8am), spend the morning exploring the historic centre, enjoy a leisurely lunch, and then visit the Cotai Strip casinos or museums in the afternoon. The last ferries back to Hong Kong depart around 11pm, giving you the option to stay for dinner and the evening lights. If you’re short on time, a half-day trip is possible, but you’ll need to prioritise only a couple of key sights.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Sheung Wan & Central – Hong Kong’s historic and financial heart, with the Mid-Levels escalator, Man Mo Temple, and the PMQ creative hub.
- Macau Peninsula – The older part of Macau, packed with colonial architecture, temples, and the iconic Ruins of St. Paul’s.
- Cotai Strip – Macau’s Las Vegas-style casino resort area, home to The Venetian, City of Dreams, and the Wynn Palace.
- Taipa Village – A charming area on Taipa Island with traditional Macanese houses, the Taipa Houses Museum, and excellent restaurants.
- Coloane Island – The quietest part of Macau, offering hiking trails, the A-Ma Cultural Village, and the peaceful Hac Sa Beach.
- Hong Kong’s Outlying Islands – Lamma Island and Cheung Chau are easily reached from Central Pier, perfect for a day of hiking and seafood.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.