Hong Kong’s ferry commuters will need to navigate some temporary schedule changes on Tuesday, September 30, and Friday, October 3, due to an upcoming Chinese naval vessel visit. Two ships—the training ship Qi Jiguang and the amphibious transport dock Yimengshan—will be in port for public visits, necessitating strategic adjustments to eight key outlying island ferry routes.

Travelers should pay close attention to specific time windows when disruptions will occur: between 8:20 a.m. and 9:45 a.m. on Tuesday, and between 9:40 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. on Friday. These adjustments will impact routes connecting Central with popular destinations like Cheung Chau, Mui Wo, Peng Chau, Yung Shue Wan, Sok Kwu Lan, Ma Wan, and Discovery Bay.

Each route will experience unique modifications. For instance, on the Central-Cheung Chau route, the 8:20 a.m. sailing on September 30 will be canceled, with the 8:40 a.m. departure delayed to 8:50 a.m. Similarly, the Central-Mui Wo route will see the 8:30 a.m. sailing canceled, with the 8:45 a.m. departure rescheduled to 9:05 a.m. using a fast ferry.

To help commuters manage these changes, transport authorities are implementing additional support measures. In Mui Wo, the New Lantao Bus Route 3M between the ferry pier and Tung Chung Station will be strengthened. Discovery Bay passengers can utilize an enhanced DB03R bus route and a free shuttle service between Discovery Bay and Central Pier No. 3.

The Transport Department has also warned that nine inner harbor ferry routes might experience temporary changes of up to 30 minutes, depending on specific conditions. This means travelers should remain flexible and allow extra time for their journeys.

The naval visit presents an interesting logistical challenge for Hong Kong’s complex transportation network. By carefully managing ferry schedules, authorities aim to balance the public’s transportation needs with the ceremonial requirements of the visiting naval vessels.

For those traveling during the specified periods, the most critical advice is to check specific route details carefully. Each ferry line has slightly different adjustments, so consulting the full schedule or contacting ferry operators directly can prevent unexpected delays or missed connections.

While these changes might seem inconvenient, they represent a coordinated effort to ensure smooth operations during a significant maritime event. The precise scheduling and proactive communication from transport authorities demonstrate Hong Kong’s commitment to maintaining efficient public transportation, even during special circumstances.

Travelers should view these adjustments as a temporary inconvenience, taking the opportunity to plan slightly more flexible routes or travel times. With some advance preparation and awareness, navigating these ferry schedule changes can be a straightforward process.