DB ferry fares to rise this Sun

Ferry fares to and from Discovery Bay are set to increase this weekend, with a new charging structure coming into effect this Sunday.

Under the new rates, the cost of a standard ticket on the DB-Central ferry will rise by 21% from HK$46 to HK$55.8. Fares for passengers 65 or older and those below 12 years old will increase from HK$23 to HK$27.9.

Ticket prices for those holding a DB Resident’s Octopus Card will increase by 14%, with adult fares costing HK$38.2, increasing from the current HK$33.5.

The ticket price for registered senior citizens is HK$24, while the ticket price for registered full-time students and children under 26 living in Discovery Bay increases from HK$16.8 to HK$19.1.

In a statement issued by DB Transport, citing long-term losses, the company earlier applied for a 60 percent fare increase, with the adult one-way fare proposed to be increased from HK$46 to HK$73.6.

The Transport Department pointed out that it has been more than six years since the ferry has adjusted its fares in June 2018. During this period, the annual passenger volume has been approximately 11.7 to 21.3 percent lower than in 2018-19.

Operating costs, including wages and fuel, have continued to rise, resulting in the revenue failing to cover the rising operating costs.

The department pointed out that since the last fare adjustment, the cumulative consumer price index has increased by double digits, and a moderate fare adjustment can enable the Discovery Bay Ferry service to continue operating.

The price increase was approved after the quotation was adjusted.

The TD also stated that the ferry is encouraged to maintain close communication with people in the region to study how to improve services and improve its financial situation, including introducing more non-ticketing revenue sources to meet the actual needs of passengers while easing the company's financial pressure.