New ferry routes from Shenzhen to Zhuhai islands

Two ferry routes have recently been launched from Shenzhen Airport Ferry Terminal to Guishan and Dong’ao islands in Zhuhai City. These routes provide scenic and convenient travel options for visitors eager to explore the beautiful Zhuhai Wanshan Archipelago.

A ferry carrying tourists from Shenzhen near Dong’ao Island. File photos except otherwise stated

Departing from Shenzhen Airport Ferry Terminal, passengers will enjoy breathtaking views of two of China’s monumental engineering marvels — the Shenzhong (Shenzhen-Zhongshan) Link and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge — before arriving at the emerald-green islands at the mouth of the Pearl River.

A view of Guishan Island.

Guishan Island

Guishan Island, the largest and most developed island in the Wanshan Archipelago, ranks among Zhuhai’s top 10 most beautiful islands. It is reachable via a roughly 70-minute ferry ride from Shenzhen Airport Ferry Terminal, making it an ideal destination for first-time island explorers.

The island features cultural landmarks such as Wen Tianxiang Square and Guishan Warship Memorial Park, which was established on the site of a naval battle more than half a century ago. Visitors can also admire impressive cliff-side stone carvings, stroll through colorful fishing village streets, and find tranquility at the serene Beisha Reservoir.

Dong’ao Island

Dong’ao Island is renowned for its stunning “Silver Beach” and is celebrated as one of Zhuhai’s classic and most beautiful islands. It boasts several sandy beaches, including Nansha Bay, Dazhu Bay, and Xiaozhu Bay.

A view from Dong’ao Island. Photos by Zhang Chanwen

Visitors enjoy their time at Nansha Bay.

Nansha Bay, often called “Diamond Beach” for its pristine charm, is popular among locals and tourists alike. Known as the “Smiling Coast” and affectionately nicknamed “Guangdong’s Little Saipan,” Nansha Bay offers a refreshing escape from fast-paced urban life. Highlights include walking along the thrilling suspended glass plank walkway, experiencing the whimsical seawalk above the waves, and visiting the island’s cozy bookstore for a peaceful reading getaway.

Visitors ready to go sea fishing on a dock at Dong'ao Island.

The ferry between Shenzhen Airport Ferry Terminal and Dong’ao Island costs two hours.

Ferry time

From Shenzhen to Guishan: 9:50 a.m.

From Guishan to Shenzhen: 12:20 p.m.

From Shenzhen to Dong’ao: 9:50 a.m.

From Dong’ao to Shenzhen: 11:50 a.m.

Ferry tickets

Between Shenzhen and Guishan Island: 160 yuan per adult

Between Shenzhen and Dong’ao Island: 200 yuan per adult

Travelers can book ferry tickets through the official WeChat account of “深圳机场码头” (“Shenzhen Airport Ferry Terminal”) under the “船票购票” (“Boat Tickets”) section or via the “鹏兴会” (“Pengxinghui”) mini program.

Getting to airport ferry terminal

Take Metro Line 11 to the Airport Station (机场站). Exit C leads to the Ground Transportation Center (GTC) on the second floor. From there, head to Gate 16 to catch the No. M590 shuttle bus directly to the ferry terminal.

Alternatively, take Metro Line 1 to Hourui Station (后瑞站). Exit C or D connects to Bus No. M419, which goes to the ferry terminal.