Leaving the busy Hong Kong Terminal behind us, we were soon to enjoy a multiplicity of sights. On our left were the high-rise buildings of modern banking Hong Kong, and the livelier Kowloon quarter was on the right, but keep a close eye on the changing landscape of Hong Kong Island as the ferry powers its way towards Lamma. Buildings hug the shoreline, and the swish, ultra-modern landscape is replaced by less impressive high-rise buildings, and then older multi-storey apartments. Soon we were observing the more tired buildings of Hong Kong Island, then apartment blocks that would be dwarfed by the mighty buildings of Central Hong Kong. But hang onto the final glimpse of the island, as it is there that we spotted a few individual low-level residences clinging precariously to the craggy extremities of the island (expensive, I’m sure, but an amazing contrast to the rest of this side of the island).

At about this time, we spot the dominating towers on Lamma Island – the source of Hong Kong’s power. But there’s still a great deal of interest as the ferry makes its way to the second-largest of the outlying islands. The waterway is full of activity: ferries, fishing vessels, offshore container storage vessels (said to be Hong Kong’s way of protecting its buildings for any cargoes that may be the remotest of fire risks), barges, speedboats, and small private boats. Not a minute passed without a significant change to the waterway. To the rear of the ferry, I’m transfixed by the wake our vessel is creating – strange what can fascinate a traveller!

We take a sharp right, then the whole of Lamma comes into view. Surprisingly, the electricity towers seem to give an air of mystery and majesty to the island, and it soon becomes evident that the island, despite its industrialisation, is a stark contrast to the bustle of Kowllon and Hong Kong. The waterway becomes less busy, and we are now seeing many more small boats – local fishermen, we presume – as we approach Lamma’s jetty. To the left are small stilted wooden houses; to the right, Lamma’s main street and two-storey buildings; and on the top of the hill, across a small bay, Lamma’s power-creation towers. What a difference from the busy harbour we left behind 40 minutes ago!

Go on the upper deck (first class) to take advantage of the harbour view.

Phone: 2367 7065, Fax: 2118 6028, Ferry Booking Phone: 2118 6203, Email

This service is obviously not as convienient as the MTR (subway) but it is a lot prettier. As soon as you get within a few hundred metres of the Ferry Terminal, you will see signs directing you to it. Ferries go from Kowloon to all places over Hong Kong, but the signs at the ferry port are clear and written in Cantonese and English.

Walking down to the ferry reminded me of a cattle run. Once you have chosen your destination and entered through the correct gate, you can only go one way, so there is no fear of getting lost.

For the Star Ferry trip between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, you must also choose the upper or lower deck before you go through the departure gates, as there are different gates for each deck. The lower deck is cheaper but wet (close to the water) and the upper deck is a few pence more but glass covered and dry.

The trip is over in just a few minutes so don't hang about if you want to take photos. I regret that I didn't take the Star Ferry at night. The view is supposed to be amazing. I guess it gives me an excuse to visit Hong Kong again.