HK's first electric ferry to run three days a week

Hong Kong’s first electric ferry, New Pearl 39, will gradually increase its service to three days a week, operating one round trip daily between North Point and Hung Hom, as well as North Point and Kowloon City, according to the Environmental Protection Department.

The department also revealed that the second electric ferry Hong Kong Water Taxi 28, operated by Fortune Ferry, will serve routes between Tsim Sha Tsui East, West Kowloon, Wan Chai, and Central. 

Its first phase of unmanned trials is expected to begin in the second quarter and a third electric ferry is slated for testing in the first half of next year.

Meanwhile, Star Ferry’s fourth electric vessel will proceed after a public tender selects a suitable shipbuilder. 

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 funding also covers operational, maintenance, and repair costs during the first 24 months of the trial.

Operated by Sun Ferry, New Pearl 39 -- the first vessel under the program -- began trials in late December last year and entered its second phase on March 31. 

Measuring 35 meters long, New Pearl 39 can carry 400 passengers -- 37 to 79 more than traditional ferries on the same routes.

Its design features a diagonal symmetry with a dolphin-inspired exterior, giving the appearance of a dolphin gliding through Victoria Harbour. 

The ferry is equipped with restrooms, luggage racks, bicycle stands, wheelchair-accessible seating, phone charging stations, and vending machines.

The department said New Pearl 39 uses high-performance lithium iron phosphate batteries, charged overnight at North Point Ferry Pier, to power daytime operations. 

Solar panels on the deck provide supplemental electricity for lighting. 

The carbon-fiber hull is about 70 percent lighter than conventional ferries, producing zero air pollution, minimal noise, and less vibration while eliminating diesel fumes.

(Ayra Wang)