Ferry to HK & baggage

Question

Hello. I'm currently in Macau and will travel to Hong Kong in a few days. I'd like to take a ferry, but I also prefer staying flexible, i.e. not booking in advance, so I can make last minute decision on when exactly I'll travel.

Problem is that I have a suitcase with me, and it appears that checked baggage on a ferry must be booked one day in advance. Is there any way around this, or am I stuck with using a bus?

Answer

Traveling from Macau to Hong Kong by ferry is a convenient option, but there are some important considerations regarding baggage. Most ferry operators, especially high-speed services like TurboJET or Cotai Water Jet, require passengers with checked baggage to pre-book the service at least one day in advance. This is primarily for safety and logistics, as they need to account for larger items on board.

If you want flexibility and are traveling with a suitcase, your options are as follows:

Book checked baggage in advance: You can still book the ferry ticket last minute for yourself, but if you want to bring a suitcase, you must book the baggage slot a day ahead. This ensures your suitcase can be safely accommodated on the ferry.
Carry-on only: If your suitcase qualifies as carry-on (size and weight restrictions apply, usually small suitcases or soft bags), you may be able to take it on board without pre-booking. This avoids the checked baggage requirement, but the suitcase must fit within the overhead or under-seat space.
Alternative transport: If your suitcase is too large for carry-on or you cannot pre-book, taking a bus or shuttle from Macau to Hong Kong may be more practical. Buses allow you to load luggage directly into the bus hold without advance booking, and services like the Macau-Hong Kong shuttle are frequent and convenient.

Additional tips:

Check ferry operator websites for exact carry-on dimensions and weight limits.
Arrive at the ferry terminal early to confirm luggage procedures.
If you want maximum flexibility with large luggage, the bus or private transfer is likely your best option.

In summary, without pre-booking checked baggage, your suitcase may prevent you from using the ferry, unless it meets carry-on criteria. For last-minute flexibility with a large suitcase, using a bus or shuttle is the most reliable choice.

Ferry to HK & baggage

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