Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
STAR FERRY'S STARS
The Star Ferry was founded in 1888 by Dorabjee Nowrojee, a Parsi from Bombay. At
the time, most locals were crossing the harbour on sampans. Nowrojee bought a
steamboat for his private use, and this eventually became the first Star Ferry. Parsis
believe in the Persian religion of Zoroastrianism, and the five-pointed star on the Star
Ferry logo is in fact an ancient Zoroastrian symbol. The Star Ferry features promin-
ently in Hong Kong's history. In 1966 thousands gathered at the Tsim Sha Tsui pier to
protest against a proposed 5ยข fare increase. It evolved into a riot as the protesters
threw stones at buses and set vehicles on fire on Nathan Rd. The 1966 riot is seen as
the trailblazer of local social protests leading to colonial reforms. No surprise then
that, on an overcast day, the only stars you'll see over Victoria Harbour are those of
the Star Ferry.
