Pet-Friendly Ferries in Hong Kong

How it generally works

Each operator sets its own rules, but the common pattern is:

• Buy a pet ticket or sign a pet-carriage form at the pier before boarding
• Your dog must be in a carrier or cage, or leashed and muzzled
• Pets stay on the floor — often a designated front area or “pet zone” — never on seats
• You supervise your pet throughout and clean up after it
• Guide dogs are exempt from these restrictions

Staff can refuse to carry a pet, and some routes only allow pets on certain sailings (for example, non-air-conditioned cabins), so arrive early and check the day’s vessel.

Where you can go with your dog

The ferry is your key to Hong Kong’s car-free outlying islands and waterfront corners — home to some of the best dog day-trips in the city. Depending on the operator and sailing, you can reach Lamma Island (Yung Shue Wan and Sok Kwu Wan), Peng Chau, Cheung Chau, Mui Wo on Lantau, Discovery Bay, Ma Wan (for Noah’s Ark), Tai O and Tung Lung Chau, as well as crossing the harbour by water taxi. The car-free islands are especially relaxing for a dog walk, with waterfront paths and far less traffic than the city.

Not every route carries pets, and the rules differ by operator, so check the list further down this page and confirm your specific sailing before you plan the day around it.

Before you sail

Bring a carrier, or a muzzle and leash as the operator requires, plus water and a clean-up kit. Check the weather and the sea conditions, and think about whether your dog is comfortable on the water before committing to a longer crossing — a short hop is a gentler first trip than an hour-long sailing. Arrive early: pet spaces can be limited, and staff may refuse a pet if the boat is full or conditions are rough.

On board

Keep your dog on the floor in the designated area or pet zone, never on the seats, and do not open a closed carrier during the trip. Supervise your dog throughout, keep it settled and quiet, and clean up immediately after any accident. Be considerate of other passengers — give a wide berth to anyone who seems nervous, and choose a quieter sailing if your dog is still getting used to boats.

Frequently asked questions

Do all Hong Kong ferries take dogs? No — it varies by operator, and sometimes by individual sailing or vessel. Check the operator list below and confirm before you travel.

Do I need a carrier, or can my dog just be leashed? It depends on the operator. Some require a cage or a fully closed pet bag; others accept a leashed and muzzled dog. Each operator’s rule is noted in the list below.

Are guide dogs treated the same? No — guide dogs are exempt from these pet restrictions and travel with their handler as normal.