Discovery Bay Transportation Services has asked the government’s Transport Department to approve a 60 per cent hike in ferry fares, citing a poor financial position despite years of taxpayer bailouts and subsidies.
If approved, single adult journeys to the Lantau residential area from Central will rise from HK$46 to HK$73.6 for non-resident Octopus card users. For registered residents using Octopus, fares could also rise by 60 per cent from HK$33.5 to HK$53.6.
Free travel for children under 1 accompanied by an adult will be maintained, though those aged 65 and over, and children aged 1 to 11, may also see fares rise.
According to a Western District Office document, the transport firm cited “rising operating costs and declining patronage” amid an unsatisfactory financial position despite government support measures.
The Office said that the Transport Department “will take into account various factors, including the financial position of the operators, operating costs, forecast of changes in revenue and return, past performance of the ferry services and public acceptance of the ferry fare adjustments” when reviewing the fare request.
The proposal came three months after Discovery Bay sought to relaunch its brand with a city-wide “Live to Discover” campaign.
Taxpayer subsidies and bailout
In 2020, Discovery Bay Transportation Services received over HK$8 million in taxpayer money as a Covid-19 bailout, according to Webb-site.
Since 2011, the government has also been providing outlying ferry firms with Special Helping Measures subsidies for key routes, and launched the Vessel Subsidy Scheme in 2019. Under the two plans, the government allows the companies to reclaim various operating expenses, such as pier and vessel costs, and also helps them purchase new ferries. Ferry firms also enjoy government pier rental refunds under the Elderly Concessionary Fares Scheme, and the use of government resources for pier-related improvements.
Last September, the Hong Kong Kowloon Ferry company increased fares for journeys between Central and Lamma Island by 22 per cent.
The Western District Office has invited feedback on the Discovery Bay fares proposal via fax (2542 2696) or phone (3842 6425). HKFP has contacted Discovery Bay Transportation Services for a response.
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