Ferry to Shanghai

As there are no current sailings on this route we cannot show ferry schedules at this present time.

There are no current operators on this route.

Shanghai is well-connected with two international airports - Pudong and Hongqiao - serving travelers from across the globe. High-speed trains link Shanghai to major Chinese cities, with Beijing just 4.5 hours away and Hangzhou reachable in under an hour. The city's comprehensive metro system provides convenient connections to the ferry terminals, with Line 12 serving the main port area. For those driving, parking facilities are available near the ferry terminals, though it's advisable to arrive early during peak travel seasons. Taxis and ride-sharing services offer another convenient option for reaching the port area from anywhere in the city.

Shanghai stands as China's largest city and financial powerhouse, blending centuries of rich history with ultramodern skylines along the Huangpu River. As one of Asia's most important maritime gateways, the city offers a compelling mix of colonial architecture and futuristic skyscrapers that create a unique urban landscape. Visitors arriving by ferry will immediately notice Shanghai's energetic character, where traditional Chinese customs blend with cosmopolitan influences.

Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer the most pleasant conditions to visit Shanghai, with mild temperatures and lower humidity making city exploration comfortable. Summer months (June-August) bring heat and occasional rainfall, though this coincides with the busiest ferry schedules to surrounding destinations. Winter (November-February) sees fewer tourists and reduced prices, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. The Chinese New Year (January or February) transforms the city with vibrant celebrations, though many businesses close during this period. October's National Day holiday week brings domestic tourism peaks, so book ferry tickets well in advance if visiting during this time.

From Shanghai's terminals, ferries connect to the Zhoushan Archipelago, China's largest island group, with journeys taking approximately 3 hours to reach this fishing area with notable beaches. The historic water town of Zhujiajiao is accessible via a river ferry ride, offering glimpses into traditional Chinese canal life just 1.5 hours from downtown. For longer excursions, overnight ferries operate to Jeju Island in South Korea (approximately 24 hours). The picturesque Chongming Island, China's third-largest island and an ecological haven, is just a 45-minute ferry journey from Shanghai's northern docks, suitable for a nature-focused day trip.

The historic Bund promenade offers views of the Pudong skyline across the river, particularly notable when illuminated at night. Explore Shanghai's culinary scene with authentic xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) at Nanxiang or taste seafood at the restaurants near the ferry terminals. The ancient water town atmosphere of Qibao, just 18km from downtown, provides insight into traditional Shanghainese life with its canals and Ming Dynasty architecture. For shopping, Nanjing Road presents a 5.5km stretch of retail options, while the Former French Concession area features tree-lined avenues, boutique shops, and cafés. Near the port area, the Shanghai Maritime Museum chronicles the city's relationship with the sea.

Shanghai's name translates to "Above the Sea," reflecting its historical significance as a port city dating back to the Song Dynasty. The city has the world's first commercial magnetic levitation train (Maglev), which connects Pudong Airport to the city at speeds reaching 430 km/h. Shanghai's Waibaidu Bridge, near the ferry terminal, was manufactured in Britain and shipped piece by piece to China in 1907. The city's maritime culture includes the tradition of "morning tea boats" where locals once gathered on small ferries to enjoy breakfast and tea while crossing the Huangpu River, a practice that has been revived as a tourist experience.