#1 The world’s longest sea-crossing bridge-tunnel system

The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB) is also known as the world’s longest sea-crossing bridge-tunnel system that crosses the waters of the Lingdinyang channel in the Pearl River Estuary.

#2 Takes only 35-45 minutes

The HZMB cuts the travelling time between Hong Kong, Macao, and Zhuhai to only 35-45 minutes depending on the weather situation. Previously, you only had the option of an hour ferry ride or a five-hour bus ride that goes on land. While I was travelling from Hong Kong to Macao using HZMB, it was raining cats and dogs that day, thus we arrive within 45 minutes as expected.

#3 There’s a bus for anytime of the day or night

I’m truly surprised that the bus runs 24 hours a day. Departing every 5 minutes during peak hours and 30 minutes in off peak times. Ticket price at HKD $65 (day rate) and HKD $70 (night rate) one way, these are adult rates and it’s the same price for any trip on HZMB.

#4 Purchasing tickets

Because they have such regular departures, you could easily purchase them from the vending machines (they have people on standby if you need help), or over the counter at the departure hall.

If you are looking to pre-book your tickets, you could through a number of different 3rd party websites such as Klook and Expedia but really, it’s not necessary.

#5 Passport and immigration

Hong Kong and Macao are two cities governed under a separate legal framework. You are crossing borders, you’ll need a passport, and you’ll need to clear immigrations for both sides. From my experience, custom was pretty smooth at the Hong Kong port as well at the Macao port. It was quick and no delays.

#6 Your own cars are not allowed on the bridge

If you think you could do a roadtrip out of this, nope, you can’t. Only drivers and vehicle that has a special Closed Road Permit and insurance that’s valid in the three cities can drive on the bridge. If you drove your rental car there, you’ll have to leave it at the port. Crossed the bridge, then rent another car over in Macao or Zhuhai and vice versa. It’s just the way it works.

#7 Beware of Rain

While boarding the bus at the Hong Kong port, weirdly enough there were no proper shades other than tents. It’s fine if you are a group of young people since it’s just a short run with your luggage under the rain to bus. Plus if really needed, they have umbrellas prepared. However, it’s a bit different when I was at the Macao port, there were roofs over the bus parking area. Thus, it might vary. So just keep in mind, it might be an issue if you have older people or babies with you.

#8 Seatbelt and WiFi

They are pretty strict about seatbelt. You’ll have to keep it on throughout the ride. As for WiFi, I forgot to check as I was mostly on my Netflix throughout the ride. However, according to Forbes, they say the busses are wifi-equipped. So, I believe Forbes.

#9 Charging port and Entertainment

They have a touch screen for every seat but they are filled with mostly Chinese/Korean music shows, or maybe some shows. Nothing really interest me, thus I highly recommend to prepare your own entertainment while on the ride. There’s one USB at the side of the Touch Screen, so you can charge your gadgets if need to.

Overall, from my experience, it was a pretty smooth transition from HK-Macao and back. I think if you don’t enjoy ferry rides as much and want something cheaper, this might be your alternative.

For more information, visit Discover Hong Kong’s website.

Watch my multi-destination trip here and see how I move from HK to Shenzhen to Macao. I took the HZMB here too!

Do you prefer a free and easy trip? Check out these affordable free and easy Hong Kong and Macao (using HZMB) package here!