240 Transit free Hong Kong to Shenzhen or Guangzhou

Question

Hi there…

We will be in Hong Kong and would like to either go to Shenzhen or Guangzhou to start our 240Transit free . As we will not be flying we would either have to go to Guangzhou Nanshan pier or Shenzhen shekou . We would the spend 5 days then go to Chengdu fly out Tokyo.

I see that we can take the ferry from Kowloon China ferry terminal.. to do that? Can we buy the tickets when we arrive or we have to prebook?

We can bring luggage on board ferries? In mid March should I be concerned ferries not running due to fog?

Thanks

Answer

For your plan to start the 240-hour visa-free transit in China from Hong Kong, you can indeed travel by ferry to either Shenzhen (Shekou) or Guangzhou (Nansha/Nanshan Pier). Here are the key points to consider:

Ferry Options

From Kowloon, the main departure point is the China Ferry Terminal in Tsim Sha Tsui.
Ferries operate to both Shenzhen Shekou and Guangzhou Nansha Pier, though Guangzhou services are less frequent than Shenzhen.
Travel time is roughly 1 hour to Shenzhen Shekou and 2–3 hours to Guangzhou Nansha.

Tickets

It is possible to buy tickets on arrival at the terminal, but during busy periods or weekends it’s recommended to pre-book to ensure a seat, especially for larger parties or if you have fixed plans.
Booking can be done online through ferry company websites or via travel agents.

Luggage

Ferries allow luggage on board, usually checked at the counter or carried with you, but there are size and weight limits. For standard suitcases (20–28 inches), there should be no issue.

Weather Considerations

Mid-March generally has mild weather in southern China and Hong Kong. Fog or rough seas can occasionally delay ferries, but cancellations are rare. Keep an eye on local weather forecasts before departure.

Additional Tips

Ensure your passport and visa-free transit eligibility are ready, as immigration checks occur before boarding the ferry.
For Guangzhou, after arriving at Nansha Pier, you may need local transport to the city center, as the pier is some distance from central Guangzhou.
For Shenzhen, Shekou is closer to metro connections, making it easier to reach downtown or other attractions.

In summary, both options are feasible. For convenience and shorter travel time, Shenzhen Shekou is usually preferred. Booking in advance is helpful but not strictly necessary, and standard luggage is allowed onboard. Mid-March weather is generally suitable for ferry travel with minimal risk of disruption.

240 Transit free Hong Kong to Shenzhen or Guangzhou

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