What Changed
- Chief Executive in Council approved Star Ferry fare increases on October 13, 2026.
- New fares will be implemented on January 25, 2027, capping adult weekday tickets at $6.0 and weekend tickets at $8.3 while keeping monthly tickets at $190.
- The amendment to Cap. 104C will be tabled at the Legislative Council on October 28, 2026, for negative vetting.
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (Hong Kong SAR) Executive Council approved an application by The "Star" Ferry Company, Limited (Star Ferry) on October 13, 2026, to increase fares across its two franchised harbour-crossing routes: "Central - Tsim Sha Tsui" and "Wan Chai - Tsim Sha Tsui". The approved fare adjustments are scheduled to take effect on January 25, 2027.
The decision directly impacts commuters, tourists, transport operators, and public utility stakeholders in Hong Kong SAR. Under the approved scheme, weekday fare increases will range from $0.6 to $1.0 per trip, while weekend fare increases will range from $1.0 to $1.8 per trip. Adult ticket fares will be capped at $6.0 on weekdays and $8.3 on weekends. To alleviate the financial burden on regular commuters, the monthly ticket price will remain unchanged at $190. Star Ferry had originally requested fare increases ranging from $0.8 to $2.0 per trip, but the Government moderated the rate to balance operational viability with public affordability.
According to government figures, Star Ferry accumulated losses exceeding $100 million between 2018 and 2023 due to factors including the COVID-19 pandemic, relying heavily on debt financing. Despite marginal profits in 2024 and 2025, slow patronage growth and rising operating and debt-service costs are projected to push the company back into financial loss starting in 2026. Even after the fare increase, Star Ferry fares will remain 30 to 50 percent lower than MTR or franchised bus alternatives.
Legally, maximum permitted fares are governed by the Ferry Services (The "Star" Ferry Company, Limited) (Determination of Fares) Order (Cap. 104C). The corresponding statutory amendment will be tabled at the Legislative Council on October 28, 2026, under the negative vetting procedure. The Government previously consulted the Legislative Council Panel on Transport on July 17, 2026, and the Transport Advisory Committee on August 27, 2026.
Who May Be Affected
Regular commuters, visitors, tourists, and transport operators in Hong Kong SAR.
Cross-Border Context
Regulation of public transport infrastructure and utility franchises in Hong Kong SAR relevant to cross-border travelers and transport sector investors.
What to check next
- Legislative Council negative vetting proceedings following the tabling of the amendment on October 28, 2026.
- Gazette publication of the amended Ferry Services (The "Star" Ferry Company, Limited) (Determination of Fares) Order (Cap. 104C).
This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. Consult the official text and obtain advice appropriate to your circumstances where needed.