City's first electric ferry carries passengers in trial

Marco Lam

Hong Kong's first electric ferry, New Pearl 39, has trialed its first-ever journey with passengers, sailing a route connecting North Point, Hung Hom and Kowloon City.

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 operators. New Pearl 39 is the first one launched under the pilot program.

Currently undergoing the second phase of testing, it will be gradually incorporated into the sailing schedule, carrying passengers during off-peak hours, authorities said.

Following yesterday's test, another passenger-carrying trial will be held next Monday with an initial plan for four sailings.

Depending on the trial's progress, the vessel will gradually carry passengers up to three days a week, with round trips between North Point and Hung Hom, as well as two sailings between North Point and Kowloon City.

Meanwhile, authorities said the city's second electric ferry, launched in late February in Nansha, Guangzhou, is expected to arrive in Hong Kong for tests next month. The first phase of non-passenger trials is scheduled to commence in the second quarter of this year.

Named Hong Kong Water Taxi 28, it will be operated by Fortune Ferry Company Limited, serving routes connecting East Tsim Sha Tsui, West Kowloon, Wan Chai, and Central.