New ferries on the way

Compounding the transportation situation in Macau during the Venetian Macao's opening was the fact that the new ferry terminal in Taipa, next to the airport, is not yet ready. Its opening date remains a mystery, but sources at the Venetian say they “hope” it will be before the end of next year. It is understood that a temporary dock will open at the site with a few berths sometime within the next few months, but details are hard to come by.

The Venetian has 10 large ferries, which can seat more than 400 each. It is ready to start putting the boats into operation once the terminal is open, which would instantly double the existing passenger capacity of the incumbent operator, Shun Tak Holdings. Moreover, the Venetian is believed to be close to placing an order for another 28 ferries, in anticipation of running a service into ports in the Pearl River Delta.