Hong Kong's second fully government-funded electric ferry, the Hong Kong Water Taxi 28, has officially arrived in the city, the Environment and Ecology Bureau announced on Monday (April 28). Designed with a swan-inspired silhouette and equipped with LED lighting for nighttime voyages, the zero-emission vessel will undergo sea trials in local waters ahead of its anticipated mid-2024 debut.
Swan-Inspired Design and Eco-Friendly Features
The ferry, operated by Fortune Ferry, boasts an air-conditioned cabin with sofa-style seating, panoramic windows, an open-air deck, and a bar, offering passengers a premium sightseeing experience along Victoria Harbour. Its electric propulsion ensures quiet, emission-free travel, aligning with the city's sustainability goals.
Charging Infrastructure Ready
To support the ferry's operations, a dedicated charging station has been installed at Hung Hom Pier. The vessel's planned route will connect key tourist hotspots, including Tsim Sha Tsui East, West Kowloon Cultural District, Wan Chai, and Central, passing landmarks like the Avenue of Stars, Golden Bauhinia Square, the Hong Kong Observation Wheel, and the International Finance Centre.
Collaborative Milestone
Representatives from the Environmental Protection Department, Transport Department, Marine Department, and Fortune Ferry attended a handover ceremony in Guangzhou's Nansha district on April 25. Authorities emphasized that the Water Taxi 28 marks a critical step in modernizing Hong Kong's maritime transport while reducing carbon emissions.
Pending successful trials, the ferry is expected to begin passenger services later this year, offering locals and tourists a sustainable way to explore the harbor.
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