All paws aboard new pet-friendly ferry service

The new kaito ferry service between Tseung Kwan O and Sai Wan Ho had its inaugural voyage yesterday, allowing pets on board.

Tendered by the Transport Department, the kaito ferry service has become popular among Tseung Kwan O South residents due to its short duration of 15 to 20 minutes per trip.

The service operator, Yun Lee Marine, was pleasantly surprised, as the number of passengers exceeded their expectations. In response, the company announced plans for larger vessels to accommodate the increased demand over the next 10 days.

The ferry operates a total of 20 trips per day, with a frequency of one trip per hour and departs at 6.45am from Sai Wan Ho, with the last ferry departing at 7.15pm.

From Tseung Kwan O South, the first ferry sets sail at 7.15am, while the last ferry departs at 7.45pm.

The route takes passengers across the Tseung Kwan O Cross Bay Bridge to the Shau Kei Wan Typhoon Shelter. Passengers disembark at the pier near the Eastern Magistrates' Courts in Sai Wan Ho.

The fare for adults, as well as those who bring bicycles or pets on board, is HK$16.80 each. Passengers are also allowed to bring goods, but they will be charged HK$16.80 per 0.1 cubic meter.

For children, the fare is HK$8.50.

Passengers who meet the eligibility criteria of the Government Public Transport Fare Concession Scheme for the elderly and eligible persons with disabilities can use their Octopus cards to enjoy a HK$2 discount.

Sai Kung district councillor Victor Chan Chi-ho took the 10.30am ferry from Tseung Kwan O South and reported positive feedback.

With an estimated occupancy rate of over 80 percent and a travel time of 15 minutes, the ferry has proven to be highly attractive for residents in Tseung Kwan O South. "There were an estimated 70 to 80 people on board," he said.

"It was faster than expected. "They can board the ferry at the South Landing, which is faster than a 10-minute walk to the MTR station."

"Some residents taking the MTR to Hong Kong Island for work at 8am have to wait for two or three trains before they can get on the train at North Point Station. They are guaranteed a seat if they take the ferry," Chan said.

While the current ferry schedule is sparse, district councilor Victor Chan Chi-ho suggests that the ferry company should increase the number of schedules during peak hours in the future.

He also proposes the addition of more destinations.

One resident, Miss Chan, who commutes to Causeway Bay, found the experience enjoyable. She praised "the absence of traffic congestion and the beautiful scenery, describing it as a unique aspect of Hong Kong."

Despite limited ferry schedules at present, she plans to continue using the ferry daily.