Star Ferry

A ferry has crossed Victoria Harbour on this route since 1888, and the Star Ferry still runs green and white double-ended boats with wooden bench seats whose backs are flipped over so passengers always face forward. The crossing between Central and Tsim Sha Tsui takes about ten minutes and costs less than almost any other way of getting anywhere in Hong Kong, which is why it remains a commuter service rather than a tourist ride. It also happens to be the best view in the city: the whole northern shore of Hong Kong Island rising directly out of the water, seen from sea level and moving. The upper deck is worth the small extra fare.

What you actually see

• The harbour crossing at sea level - the island skyline from the water.
• Flip-over bench seats - the wooden backs turned for each direction.
• A route running since 1888 - the oldest public crossing in the city.
• Night sailings - the towers lit across the water.

When to go

Year round; dusk and after dark are the best crossings. One hour including waiting and walking. It runs frequently from early morning to about eleven at night.

Honest expectations

Ten minutes is all it is, and haze often flattens the view. The Wan Chai route is quieter but less scenic. Piers are functional and unattractive. Harbour reclamation has moved the Central pier well away from the old site.

Nearby

Tsim Sha Tsui promenade is at the north end; Central is at the south.