HONG KONG–MACAU
Ferry Terminal

The Complete Guide to Taking the Hong Kong–Macau Ferry Terminal in 2024

Everything you need to know about booking tickets, navigating the Shun Tak Centre, clearing immigration, and arriving in Macau stress-free.

Back to Blog
The Complete Guide to Taking the Hong Kong–Macau Ferry Terminal in 2024
8 min read
15 March 2024By Ferry Terminal GuideTravel Guide

The Hong Kong–Macau Ferry Terminal, nestled within the iconic red-facade Shun Tak Centre at 200 Connaught Road Central in Sheung Wan, has served as the definitive gateway between Hong Kong and Macau since 1985.

Getting to the Terminal

The terminal is exceptionally well-connected. The MTR Sheung Wan Station (Exit D) connects directly to the terminal via a covered walkway — you never step outside. From Central, this is a 2-minute train ride. Taxis from Tsim Sha Tsui typically cost HK$90–$120 depending on traffic.

Arrival via bus is equally convenient: routes 104, 107, A11, and A21 stop directly outside Shun Tak Centre on Connaught Road.

Booking Your Tickets

TurboJet operates the majority of sailings to the Macau Outer Harbour (the peninsula). Cotai Water Jet serves the Taipa Terminal (convenient for the Cotai Strip casino district, including the Venetian, Parisian, and Londoner resorts).

Pro tip: Book online at least 24 hours in advance. During Lunar New Year and Golden Week, tickets sell out 7–10 days ahead. Always book the return journey simultaneously.

Tickets range from HK$165 (Economy) to HK$330 (Super Class) one-way on TurboJet, depending on sailing time and seat class.

The Immigration Process

Allow 45–60 minutes before your departure for the full process: ticketing check-in, baggage X-ray, Hong Kong departure immigration, and boarding. The process flows efficiently during off-peak hours in as little as 20 minutes.

You'll need: Passport or (for HK residents) your HKID card. Mainland China visitors require their Home Return Permit (回鄉證).

The Voyage

The crossing to Macau Outer Harbour takes approximately 55–65 minutes depending on sea conditions in the Pearl River Estuary. The Taipa crossing (Cotai Water Jet) runs approximately 60–70 minutes.

For comfort, choose central-rear seating — these areas experience the least motion sickness-inducing movement, particularly during rougher weather between October and March.

On Arrival in Macau

Macau immigraton is straightforward. Hong Kong and most Western passport holders receive a 90-day visa-free entry. After clearing customs, you'll find a fleet of free casino shuttle buses at both the Outer Harbour and Taipa terminals — a convenient and free service to major resorts.