Traveling from Hong Kong to Macau(澳门/澳門) with Turbojet
While planning a trip to Hong Kong, I also prepared for a trip to Macau.
Macau is conveniently located about an hour away by ferry from Hong Kong, making it an excellent destination for a joint excursion.
Morning in Hong Kong
On the day we headed to Macau, the weather in Hong Kong was clear.
Worried about strong winds or high waves preventing the ferry from sailing, we were relieved to see familiar scenes of Hong Kong.
Gyudon(rice with beef), Breakfast
For a quick morning meal, we decided to try Gyudon at the Yoshinoya franchise, a dish I had experienced during travels in Japan.
Although the presentation differed slightly from what I had in Japan, the addition of a cola served in a tray reminded me of fast-food establishments like McDonald’s.
Nevertheless, the taste of Gyudon was satisfying, providing a hearty breakfast.
Sheung Wan Station
We took the subway to Sheung Wan Station, where the ferry terminal is located.
Sheung Wan Station is essential for traveling from Hong Kong Island to Macau.
There are three locations to catch a ferry from Hong Kong to Macau: Hong Kong Island, Tsim Sha Tsui, and Hong Kong Airport.
Sheung Wan Station allows easy access to Hong Kong Island, while Tsim Sha Tsui Station connects to Tsim Sha Tsui, making ferry travel convenient.
Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal
[Hong Kong Island (Sheung Wan) → Macau] / MTR Sheung Wan Station Exit D, Shun Tak Centre 3rd Floor
[Fare] Weekdays HK$151 | Weekends HK$163 | Night HK$185
[Operating Hours] Day 07:00 ~ 17:30 (15-minute intervals) | Evening 17:45 ~ 06:30 (6 trips, check the website for details)
[Macau → Hong Kong Island (Sheung Wan)]
[Fare] Weekdays HK$140 | Weekends HK$152 | Night HK$174
[Booking Turbojet HK]
https://www.turbojet.com.hk/en/
China Hong Kong Ferry Terminal
[Hong Kong (Tsim Sha Tsui) → Macau] / MTR Tsim Sha Tsui Station Exit A1, 10-minute walk
[Fare] Weekdays HK$151 | Weekends HK$166 | Night HK$186
[Operating Hours] Day 07:00 ~ 17:30 (30-minute intervals) | Evening 18:00 ~ 22:30 (30-minute intervals)
[Macau → Hong Kong (Tsim Sha Tsui)]
[Fare] Weekdays HK$139 | Weekends HK$154 | Night HK$174
Hong Kong International Airport Ferry Terminal
[Hong Kong Airport → Macau] / Use Ferry Terminal without going through immigration after arriving in Hong Kong
[Fare] Adult HK$233 | Child HK$178 | Infant HK$174
[Operating Hours] 10:00 ~ 22:00 (1-hour intervals)
[Macau → Hong Kong Airport]
[Fare] Adult HK$233 | Child HK$178 | Infant HK$174
I heard that during peak times, it might be challenging to get the desired ferry schedule.
Therefore, I booked an early round-trip ferry to Macau while planning my Hong Kong travel itinerary.
Ferry Schedule
The schedule board guiding the ferry schedule and terminals showed dozens of ferries shuttling between Hong Kong and Macau daily.
Turbojet Ticket
We booked a ferry departing at 9:35 AM.
Despite the varying prices depending on seat class, even the lowest-priced Economy class was comfortable enough.
Initially quoted at HK$151, the actual payment was HK$141, saving us HK$10.
I’m not sure where the discount came from.
Departure Gate
Hong Kong and Macau, while technically part of China, operate as autonomous regions, essentially requiring immigration clearance with a passport. However, the process is not as complex or time-consuming as taking a flight.
Turbojet Ferry Terminal
Taking the Turbojet ferry from Hong Kong Island to Macau felt different from the Star Ferry to Tsim Sha Tsui.
It had a sense of embarking on another journey during our journey.
Waiting Area in Front of the Gate
We gathered in front of the gate 15 minutes before departure, observing the differences in policies between Hong Kong and Macau, both considered autonomous regions within China.
Although the ferry ride was only an hour, I was curious about the distinct feel of Macau, often referred to as the “Oriental Europe.”
Passengers on the Ferry
There were many people traveling from Hong Kong to Macau, and I noticed quite a few Koreans among them.
Turbojet Ferry
The Turbojet Ferry, unlike a cruise ship, wasn’t exceptionally large but appeared sleek and swift, providing a fast and nimble journey across the waters.
Immigration Form
Because each region has its own policies, despite only a one-hour journey, it felt like crossing into a different country.
Filling out an immigration form was a bit cumbersome.
Inside the Ferry
The cabins on the ferry were full.
Even though it was a weekday, Macau seemed to be a popular travel and resort destination.
Arrival in Macau
It took exactly one hour to reach the Macau Ferry Terminal.
The Turbojet’s high speed minimized the impact of waves, ensuring a smooth ride without much swaying.
Immigration Guide Board
The presence of many Koreans was evident during the process of disembarking and moving to the immigration area, where guide boards in Korean provided assistance.
The inside of the terminal was cool due to the air conditioning.
What is it like outside of Macau?
I was curious.
Aug. 23. 2012