Star Ferry seeks 30 percent fare hike

The Star Ferry is seeking government approval for an average fare hike of 30 percent for its Tsim Sha Tsui-Central and Tsim Sha Tsui-Wan Chai routes, citing financial challenges.

Under the proposal, fares will go up by HK$0.8 to HK$2.0 per journey.

The price of an adult single ticket for both routes on weekdays will rise from HK$5.0 to HK$6.5.

In a paper submitted to the Legislative Council, the Transport and Logistics Bureau noted that the ferry operator recorded losses of more than HK$100 million between 2018 and 2023 and relied on loans to maintain its operations.

The document added that while the Star Ferry returned to the black in the past two years, operating expenses have been on the rise and it's expecting significant financial pressure over the next few years.

The ferry operator also plans to replace the engines of its vessels starting in the second half of this year, at an estimated cost of around HK$10 million per ship.

Meanwhile, it has proposed launching a pet-co-riding service on the Tsim Sha Tsui-Wan Chai route in a bid to attract new passengers. A special pet pass would be introduced at HK$25, allowing passengers to bring their pets on board provided the animals are kept under restraint, such as inside a cage or carrier bag, or on a leash.

The Legco transport panel is slated to discuss the proposals on Friday.

The Star Ferry last raised its fares by more than 50 percent in 2023.

Edited by Edmond Fong ...