A direct ferry route connecting Hong Kong International Airport to Hengqin via Shenzhen’s Shekou began operations earlier this month, offering a speedier, more straightforward travel option for international visitors headed to the Chimelong International Ocean Resort, according to a statement from Chimelong International Travel Company Limited.
Launched on 8 July, the Chimelong Ferry is a joint venture between China Merchants Cruises, online travel agency Trip.com and the Chimelong Group. The new 2.5-hour route cuts down on the multiple transfers currently required to reach Hengqin from Hong Kong, and allows travellers to check their luggage directly from the Shekou Cruise Homeport into Chimelong-affiliated hotels.
Passengers also get to use dedicated check-in counters and immigration lanes, and the Chimelong Ferry VIP lounge at Shekou – where they can complete their Hengqin hotel check-in and luggage drop-off. Signs and guides bilingual in Chinese and English are present throughout the journey.
[See more: A baby manatee has made her public debut at Hengqin’s Chimelong resort]
Trip.com is supporting the launch with international traveller perks, including a 30 percent discount on double tickets for Chimelong’s three major resorts (along with Hengqin, there is one in Guangzhou plus another in Qingyuan) and hotel specials for both Hengqin and Guangzhou.
The new ferry link is part of the Greater Bay Area’s drive to better integrate cross-boundary transport and tourism infrastructure.
“For international visitors to Chimelong Resort in Hengqin, traditional inbound travel often comes with three main challenges: complicated travel routes, language barriers, and trouble handling luggage,” the statement read. “[The new ferry is] pioneering an innovative model that builds on one-stop direct access and hassle-free service.”
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