The ferry between Hong Kong and Macau is one of the world's busiest short sea crossings — roughly 60 kilometres across the Pearl River Delta, completed in about an hour. Two operators run the service from multiple terminals on both sides, and the boats depart so frequently that you rarely need to book far ahead, though peak periods are the exception. Here is everything you need to know.
The two operators: TurboJet and Cotai Water Jet
Two companies share the Hong Kong–Macau crossing:
- TurboJet: the older and larger operator, with the most frequent departures. TurboJet runs high-speed catamaran ferries from the HK Macau Ferry Terminal (Sheung Wan, on Hong Kong Island) and from the China Ferry Terminal (Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon) to the Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal (also called the Macau Ferry Terminal) on the Macau peninsula.
- Cotai Water Jet: a subsidiary of the Sands casino group, running from the HK Macau Ferry Terminal (Sheung Wan) and from Tuen Mun in the New Territories to the Taipa Ferry Terminal, which is connected to the Cotai Strip casinos. Convenient if that is your destination.
Journey time on both operators is approximately 55 to 75 minutes, depending on sea conditions and which terminals you are using. Both run modern, large catamaran ferries with air conditioning, assigned seating, and a small snack service.
Departure terminals in Hong Kong
The two main departure points in Hong Kong are:
- HK Macau Ferry Terminal, Sheung Wan (Shun Tak Centre): on Hong Kong Island, accessible from Sheung Wan MTR station. This is the busiest terminal, served by both TurboJet and Cotai Water Jet, with ferries around the clock.
- China Ferry Terminal, Tsim Sha Tsui: in Kowloon, near the Star Ferry pier, served by TurboJet. More convenient if you are staying on the Kowloon side.
A third option is Tuen Mun Ferry Terminal in the New Territories, served by Cotai Water Jet. This is primarily useful for visitors travelling from Lantau or the airport area, as it sits at the far western edge of the MTR network.
Arriving in Macau: which terminal?
Where you arrive in Macau depends on which operator and terminal you use in Hong Kong:
- Outer Harbour (Macau Ferry Terminal): on the Macau peninsula, a short taxi or bus ride from the old town, the Ruins of St Paul's and the historic centre. Best for first-time visitors exploring Macau's UNESCO-listed heritage.
- Taipa Ferry Terminal: connected to the Cotai Strip by hotel shuttle buses. Convenient for those heading directly to the casino resorts.
Both terminals have immigration and customs facilities — Macau is a Special Administrative Region with its own border controls, separate from Hong Kong. All passengers must pass through passport control in both directions. Allow time for this when planning connections.
Fares and classes
Fares vary between operators, terminals, time of day and class of service. Both operators offer economy class (the standard forward-facing seat, comfortable and air-conditioned) and premium or VIP class (wider seats, more legroom, sometimes a separate lounge). Economy is perfectly fine for most travellers on a one-hour crossing.
Fares are generally higher in the evening and at peak times — particularly on Friday evenings and weekend outbound and return sailings when casino traffic is heavy. Book or arrive early on these days. Midweek sailings are usually straightforward with tickets available at the terminal.
Booking tickets
Tickets can be booked online via the TurboJet or Cotai Water Jet websites, by phone, or at ticket counters in the ferry terminals. Walk-up tickets are usually available except during very busy periods (Chinese New Year, Golden Week, major Macau events). Booking a day or two ahead gives peace of mind without any real inconvenience — both websites accept international credit cards and allow you to print or show tickets on your phone.
Hotel guests at Cotai casino resorts may be offered complimentary or discounted Cotai Water Jet ferry tickets as part of a package — worth asking about when you book your hotel.
The alternative: Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge
Since 2018, it has been possible to cross to Macau by road via the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge (HZMB), the world's longest sea-crossing bridge at approximately 55 kilometres. Cross-boundary coaches operated by various companies run from the HZMB Hong Kong Passenger Clearance Building (near Hong Kong International Airport on Lantau) to Macau's border gate, with journey times of roughly 40 minutes. Fares are competitive with the ferry.
The bridge route is most useful if you are already near the airport or Lantau, or arriving from mainland China. For travellers based in Hong Kong's urban areas, the ferry from Sheung Wan or Tsim Sha Tsui remains the most convenient option.
What to expect on the crossing
The Pearl River Delta crossing is usually calm, though the estuary can be choppy in bad weather and during typhoon season (roughly June to September). The ferries are large and stable by the standards of a one-hour sea crossing, and seasickness is uncommon. Bring your passport — it is required for both Hong Kong and Macau immigration. The crossing is not covered by any Hong Kong transport card; it is a separate ticketed journey.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the ferry from Hong Kong to Macau take?
Approximately 55 to 75 minutes depending on the operator, terminals and sea conditions. Both TurboJet and Cotai Water Jet run high-speed catamaran ferries.
Do I need to book in advance?
For most midweek sailings, walk-up tickets are available. On Friday evenings, weekends and public holidays, advance booking is strongly recommended as boats fill up. Book online via the operator websites.
Which terminal should I use in Hong Kong?
The HK Macau Ferry Terminal in Sheung Wan is the most central and most frequent. If you are on the Kowloon side, the China Ferry Terminal in Tsim Sha Tsui is served by TurboJet and avoids crossing the harbour before your journey.
Do I need a visa for Macau?
Most nationalities do not need a visa for short visits to Macau — but this varies. Always check current entry requirements with your own government's travel advice before travelling, as Macau has its own immigration rules separate from mainland China and Hong Kong.
Sources and further reading:
- Schedules, fares and booking: TurboJet (turbojet.com.hk), Cotai Water Jet (cotaiwaterjet.com).
- Bridge route: Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge (hzmb.gov.hk).
- Ferry booking overview: How to book ferries on Viamo.
- Entry requirements: check your own government's travel advice.