A ferry sailing from Macao to Hong Kong hit an object in waters near Lantau Island on Sunday, leaving 83 people injured, Hong Kong police.

The vessel was said to have taken on water and lost power following the accident shortly before 7 o'clock on Sunday evening.

Passengers described chaotic scenes as people stumbled around in the dark, some bleeding and others with injuries to their arms and legs.

Boats were sent to the scene, while ambulances were put on standby at the Central Ferry Piers.

After arriving in Hong Kong, some of those hurt were given oxygen masks as they were taken to hospital.

The ferry, carrying 163 passengers and 11 crew members, was operated by Shun Tak China Travel Ship Management Limited.