A Guide to the History of the Star Ferry
The Star Ferry is one of Hong Kong’s most iconic landmarks, a historic mode of transportation that has connected Hong Kong Island and Kowloon for over a century. Beyond its practicality, the ferry has become a symbol of the city’s heritage, resilience, and maritime culture.
Origins: The Birth of a Lifeline (1880s-1898)
Before the Star Ferry, locals relied on small wooden sampans and rowboats to cross Victoria Harbour. In 1880, an Indian entrepreneur named Dorabjee Naorojee started a regular ferry service using a steam-powered vessel, the Morning Star. Encouraged by its success, he founded the "Kowloon Ferry Company" in 1888, which later became the Star Ferry Company in 1898.
Growth & Expansion (1898-1941)
By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Hong Kong’s rapid growth increased the demand for ferry services. The company expanded its fleet, introducing more ferries named after celestial bodies like Twinkling Star and Night Star. The early 1900s saw the construction of the first purpose-built ferry piers in Central and Tsim Sha Tsui, improving efficiency and accessibility.
War and Reconstruction (1941-1950s)
During World War II, Hong Kong fell under Japanese occupation (1941-1945). The Star Ferry continued operating under strict conditions, but several boats were either destroyed or repurposed by the Japanese military. After the war, the company rebuilt and resumed full services, helping restore the city’s transportation network.
The 1966 Star Ferry Riots
One of the most significant events in the ferry’s history was the 1966 Star Ferry Riots. The colonial government approved a fare increase, sparking protests led by young activist Sze To Wah. The demonstrations escalated into citywide unrest, leading to arrests and a crackdown on dissent. This event is often seen as a precursor to Hong Kong’s later political movements.
Modernization & Competition (1970s-1990s)
By the 1970s, Hong Kong’s transportation network evolved, with the opening of the Cross-Harbour Tunnel (1972) and later, the MTR (Mass Transit Railway) in 1979. These developments reduced ferry ridership, but the Star Ferry remained a cultural icon. In the 1980s, the company modernized its fleet, introducing diesel-electric ferries while preserving the classic designs.
21st Century: From Transport to Tourism
Although the MTR’s cross-harbour lines have largely replaced the ferry as a commuter necessity, the Star Ferry remains a beloved attraction. It offers scenic rides across Victoria Harbour, especially during the nightly A Symphony of Lights show. The company has also introduced sightseeing cruises, keeping the historic ferries relevant in a changing city.
Present & Future
Today, the Star Ferry operates two main routes:
Tsim Sha Tsui ↔ Central
Tsim Sha Tsui ↔ Wan Chai
Despite increasing urban development, the ferry continues to be a nostalgic reminder of Hong Kong’s past. Efforts to preserve its legacy ensure that it remains one of the world’s most famous ferry rides and a must-experience for visitors.
The Star Ferry is more than just a boat ride—it’s a living piece of Hong Kong history. From its humble beginnings in the 1880s to its survival through war, protests, and modernization, it remains a testament to the city’s resilience. Whether for practicality or nostalgia, a trip on the Star Ferry is a journey through time.
