Traveling from Hong Kong to Macau is quite convenient, with several options available the two most commonly used ways to get to Macau is by Ferry, which is the most traditional and popular way and the other popular method is by Bus via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge, which offers a scenic and comfortable option. Ferries operate frequently and take about 1 hour. You can board from terminals like the Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal or the China Ferry Terminal. The Golden Bus from Hong Kong to Macau takes around 40 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on the service, and is cheaper than taking the ferry. In this blog, I will discuss talk about both forms of transportation in depth and compare the two. At the end of the comparison, I will draw a conclusion on which one I think is better.
Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Terminal
The Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Terminal, also known as the Macau Ferry Terminal, is located in Sheung Wan, Hong Kong. It serves as a key transportation hub for ferries traveling between Hong Kong and Macau. The terminal is part of the Shun Tak Centre, a commercial and transport complex, and is well-connected to public transport, including the MTR Sheung Wan Station. Ferry services from this terminal are operated by companies like TurboJET, offering high-speed ferries to Macau's Outer Harbour and Taipa terminals. The journey typically takes about an hour.
The Macau Outer Harbour and Taipa Ferry Terminals serve as key gateways to Macau, but they cater to slightly different needs and locations:
Macau Outer Terminal
Situated on the Macau Peninsula, closer to the historic center and popular tourist spots like Senado Square and the Ruins of St. Paul. Primarily serves TurboJET ferries connecting to Hong Kong and Shenzhen. Includes a heliport for quick travel options, duty-free shops, and convenient access to taxis and buses.
Best For: Travelers heading to the Macau Peninsula or those interested in exploring the city's cultural and historical landmarks.
Taipa Ferry Terminal
Located in Taipa, near the Cotai Strip and Macau International Airport, Hosts Cotai Water Jet ferries and some TurboJET services, connecting to Hong Kong, Shenzhen, and other destinations. Modern and spacious, with amenities like free Wi-Fi, nursing rooms, and shuttle buses to major hotels on the Cotai Strip.
Best For: Visitors staying in Cotai's luxury resorts or those catching a flight from Macau International Airport.
Macau Ferry
The Macau Ferry offers convenient routes between Macau and Hong Kong, with terminals like the Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal and Taipa Ferry Terminal. Services like TurboJET and Cotai Water Jet provide high-speed ferry options, with travel times of approximately 60 minutes. TurboJET and Cotai Water Jet are both popular ferry services connecting Hong Kong and Macau, but they have some differences. TurboJET primarily operates between Hong Kong and the Macau Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal, while Cotai Water Jet focuses on routes to the Taipa Ferry Terminal, which is closer to the Cotai Strip and resorts like The Venetian. TurboJET generally offers more frequent sailings, especially to the Outer Harbour Terminal. Cotai Water Jet is often praised for its seating and onboard amenities, particularly in its premium classes, also if you're staying near the Cotai Strip, Cotai Water Jet might be more convenient due to its proximity to major hotels. Both services are reliable and efficient, so the choice often depends on your destination and preferences.
Price Comparison:
TurboJET:
Economy Class: HKD 175 (weekday day sailing), HKD 190 (weekend/holiday day sailing), HKD 220 (night sailing).
Super Class: HKD 365 (weekday day sailing), HKD 395 (weekend/holiday day sailing), HKD 415 (night sailing).
Premier VIP Cabin: HKD 2,480 (day sailing), HKD 3,310 (night sailing)
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Cotai Water Jet:
Cotai Class: HKD 175 (weekday day sailing), HKD 190 (weekend/holiday day sailing), HKD 220 (night sailing).
Cotai First: HKD 310 (weekday day sailing), HKD 329 (weekend/holiday day sailing), HKD 360 (night sailing).
Cotai VIP Cabin: HKD 2,480 (weekday day sailing), HKD 2,632 (weekend/holiday day sailing), HKD 2,880 (night sailing)
Here are the schedules for TurboJET and Cotai Water Jet:
TurboJET:
Departures from Hong Kong (Sheung Wan) to Macau (Outer Harbour): Frequent sailings starting from 7:30 AM, with intervals of 30 minutes to 1 hour. Night sailings are available until 11:30 PM.
Departures from Macau (Outer Harbour) to Hong Kong (Sheung Wan): Similar frequency, starting at 7:30 AM and running until 11:30 PM
Cotai Water Jet:
Departures from Hong Kong (Sheung Wan) to Macau (Taipa): Sailings start at 7:30 AM, with intervals of 30 minutes to 1 hour. Night sailings are available until 11:30 PM.
Departures from Macau (Taipa) to Hong Kong (Sheung Wan): Similar schedule, starting at 9:00 AM and running until 11:59 PM
HKZMB Hong Kong Bus Port
The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB) Hong Kong Port serves as a key transportation hub for travelers crossing the bridge. The HZMB Shuttle Bus operates 24/7, providing a convenient way to travel between Hong Kong, Zhuhai, and Macau. Travelers must go through customs and immigration checks at the port before continuing their journey.
Getting to the HKZMB Bus Port is easy, you can take Franchised Bus routes, and the port will be a designated stop along the way.
Check this website below for reference:
HKZMB Hong Kong Port Franchised Bus Routes (Daytime)
A11: Hong Kong International Airport (Ground Transportation Center) ↔ North Point Ferry Pier.
A21: Hong Kong International Airport (Ground Transportation Center) ↔ Hung Hom Railway Station.
A22: Hong Kong International Airport (Ground Transportation Center) ↔ Lam Tin Station.
A29: Hong Kong International Airport (Ground Transportation Center) ↔ Tseung Kwan O (Po Lam Station).
A31: Hong Kong International Airport (Ground Transportation Center) ↔ Tsuen Wan (Nina Tower).
A33X: Hong Kong International Airport (Ground Transportation Center) ↔ Tuen Mun.
A35: HKZMB Hong Kong Port ↔ Mui Wo.
A36: Hong Kong International Airport (Ground Transportation Center) ↔ Yuen Long (Long Ping Station).
A41: Hong Kong International Airport (Ground Transportation Center) ↔ Shatin (Yuchui Court).
Hong Kong Macau Golden Bus
The Hong Kong-Macau Golden Bus, also known as the HZMB Shuttle Bus, operates across the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB). This double-decker bus service is a convenient and cost-effective way to travel between Hong Kong and Macau. It runs 24 hours a day, with buses departing every 5 minutes during peak hours. The journey across the bridge takes about 30-40 minutes, and the total travel time is around 110 minutes. Tickets can be purchased at the Hong Kong Port, either through vending machines or counters. The fare is approximately HKD 65 for adults during daytime, HKD 70 and HKD 33 for concessions. Tickets can be purchased at vending machines or ticket counters at the HZMB Hong Kong Port. Payment options include Octopus cards, WeChat Pay, and Alipay. Passengers need to go through immigration at both ends of the bridge, so be prepared for some walking and carrying your belongings. If you're planning to visit Macau's casinos or resorts, free shuttle buses are available from the Macau Port to various destinations. It's a smooth and scenic ride—perfect for exploring both cities!
Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge
The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge (HZMB) is an impressive feat of modern engineering. Spanning 55 kilometers (34 miles), it is the world's longest sea-crossing bridge-tunnel system. The HZMB connects Hong Kong, Zhuhai, and Macau, significantly reducing travel time between these cities. What used to take about four hours can now be completed in just 30 minutes. The bridge consists of three cable-stayed bridges, an undersea tunnel, and four artificial islands. It was designed to last 120 years and cost approximately $18.8 billion to construct. Opened to the public in October 2018, the HZMB has become a vital link for trade, tourism, and transportation in the Pearl River Delta region.
Which is Better?
Choosing between the ferry and the bus to Macau depends on your priorities—speed, cost, or convenience. Ferry is Direct and much quicker, which companies like TurboJet and Cotai Water Jet being well-established companies, however it is slightly more expensive. The HK-Macau Golden Bus may take longer to get there and additional transport to reach your destination in Macau, but is Cheaper and has a scenic route over the bridge. If you're short on time, the ferry is faster and more direct. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option and don't mind a longer journey, the bus is a good choice.
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