Hong Kong’s first electric ferry set for North Point-Hung Hom route

Hong Kong’s first electric ferry is set to arrive in the city this week, and will commence service on the North Point-Hung Hom route after final testing and crew training by the end of the year.

The SAR government previously earmarked HK$350 million for a pilot program to introduce electric ferries, fully funding the construction of four vessels by four ferry operators.

The first of these electric ferries, operated by Sun Ferry, was launched in Nansha, Guangzhou, in early September this year for various performance tests.

The vessel is expected to arrive in local waters this week for final testing and crew training by the end of the year, before it commences services on the North Point-Hung Hom route.

According to officials, charging facilities have already been installed at the North Point, Hung Hom, and Kwun Tong terminals to support the new electric ferries.

Commenting on the news, the Environmental Protection Department said the maintenance and upkeep costs for electric ferries are lower, and authorities hope to acquire data through the program to evaluate whether electric ferries are more cost-effective overall compared to traditional fuel-powered ferries.

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Sun Ferry expressed optimism for the future of electric ferries, and called on government support for additional infrastructure, such as more charging facilities.