Shenzhen to Macau. 11 people.

Question

What is the best way to travel from Shenzhen to Macau for 11 people.

Is the ferry reliable and how about onward taxis or subway from Macau Port to our Hotel.

We have not chosen our hotel yet but it most likely will be in the Taipa or Cotai areas.

Thanks.

Answer

Traveling from Shenzhen to Macau for a group of 11 people can be done conveniently, but the best mode of transport depends on your preferences for comfort, speed, and luggage handling.

The most common option is taking a ferry from Shenzhen to Macau. The ferry service is generally reliable, with multiple departures daily. For a group your size, it is recommended to book tickets in advance to ensure seating together, especially during weekends or holidays. The main ferry terminals in Shenzhen are Shekou Cruise Center and Fuyong Ferry Terminal (near Shenzhen Bao’an Airport), both offering regular services to Macau’s Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal.

Once you arrive at Macau’s Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal, you will need onward transportation to your hotel, especially if it is in the Taipa or Cotai areas:

Taxis: Macau taxis are readily available outside the ferry terminal. However, with a group of 11, you may need to split into 2–3 taxis, as each taxi typically seats 4 passengers plus luggage.
Hotel shuttles: Many hotels in Taipa and Cotai offer complimentary or paid shuttle services from the ferry terminal. This is convenient for large groups and avoids multiple taxis.
Public buses: Macau has an extensive bus network, but for a large group with luggage, buses may be less convenient compared to taxis or hotel shuttles.

Alternative options for traveling from Shenzhen to Macau include land border crossings via bus or private van. This can be more flexible for large groups:

Cross-border buses: Buses operate from Shenzhen city to Macau via border points such as Huanggang or Futian. Once in Macau, you can take local taxis or hotel shuttles to Taipa/Cotai.
Private van or coach hire: For a group of 11, hiring a private van or minibus could be the most comfortable option, allowing direct transport from Shenzhen to your hotel in Macau without splitting up. This can be arranged through travel agencies or private transport services.

Additional tips:

Check visa requirements if crossing from Shenzhen into Macau; most nationalities can get a short-term entry permit on arrival.
Consider travel time and potential congestion at border points; peak periods can lead to longer waiting times.
If your hotel is in Cotai, confirm if the hotel offers shuttle services from either the ferry terminal or the airport for added convenience.

Overall, for a group of 11, the ferry is reliable and comfortable, but coordinating taxis or using hotel shuttles is essential for smooth transfer to Taipa or Cotai. Private van services can also offer a more streamlined solution for larger groups.