Hong Kong Cruise Port
Two terminals, one spectacular harbor and its own entry rules.
Get Hong Kong Cruise QuotesOne of the World’s Great Harbor Arrivals
Sailing into Victoria Harbour, with skyscrapers on both shores and the Peak above, is one of the classic cruise arrivals. Hong Kong is a regular start, end and call for Asia voyages, and many travelers add a few days in the city.
Hong Kong has two cruise terminals. Kai Tak Cruise Terminal opened in 2013 on the runway of the old Kai Tak airport and can berth two of the world’s largest cruise ships at once. Ocean Terminal, part of the Harbour City complex in Tsim Sha Tsui, is the older terminal; it suits smaller and mid-sized ships and puts you in the heart of Kowloon.
What to Do in Hong Kong
Victoria Peak
Ride the Peak Tram or take a taxi to the top for the city’s famous view, best at dusk.
Star Ferry
The short crossing between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island is one of the best-value harbor rides anywhere.
Markets and temples
The Temple Street Night Market, Man Mo Temple and the street markets of Mong Kok.
Lantau Island
The Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery, reached by cable car.
For tours you can book ahead, see Hong Kong shore excursions on our sister site.
Macau and the Greater Bay
Macau, another special administrative region with its own entry rules, is easy to add from Hong Kong by ferry or by the bridge linking Hong Kong, Zhuhai and Macau. Its Portuguese heritage, including the Ruins of St. Paul’s and the historic center, contrasts with the big resorts of the Cotai Strip.
Some itineraries also call at ports in Guangdong province, such as Shenzhen, or continue to Vietnam, Taiwan or the Philippines. Each port has its own entry requirements.
Tips for Hong Kong Cruisers
- Stay a night or two: Hong Kong’s airport is well connected, and hotels around Tsim Sha Tsui make embarkation at Ocean Terminal easy.
- Use an Octopus card: the stored-value card pays for the MTR, ferries, buses and many shops.
- Weather: summers are hot, humid and can bring typhoons; late autumn and winter are drier and more comfortable.
- Official information: the Hong Kong Tourism Commission has information on the city’s cruise facilities.
Hong Kong Cruise Questions
Do I need a China visa for a Hong Kong cruise?
Hong Kong has its own immigration system, separate from mainland China. Many nationalities can visit Hong Kong without a visa, but if your cruise also calls at mainland ports, you need permission to enter the mainland as well. Check both sets of rules.
Which terminal is closer to the city?
Ocean Terminal in Tsim Sha Tsui is right in the city, next to shopping and the Star Ferry. Kai Tak Cruise Terminal, on the former airport runway, is farther out, so plan a taxi or transfer.
Sail From Hong Kong
Tell us whether you want to start, end or stop in Hong Kong. Our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise will compare Asia voyages and send free quotes, with hotel nights if you want them.
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