Hong Kong is launching initiatives to expand its presence in the global yacht industry, which is projected to reach HK$350 billion by 2032, according to government officials. The city has introduced the Southbound Travel for Yachts from Guangdong scheme, allowing leisure vessels from mainland China to register electronically with Hong Kong’s Marine Department and access its waters more easily. The announcement was made during a launch event attended by senior officials and yacht owners.
Deputy Financial Secretary Michael Wong Wai-lun highlighted the growth potential of the yacht market, noting the existence of around 6,000 superyachts worldwide exceeding 30 meters in length, with over 90 currently based in Hong Kong. He emphasized that the city’s efforts align with national priorities set out in the 15th Five-Year Plan, which encourages the development of leisure consumption, including cruises and yachting, and reflects broader global trends. Wong outlined plans to construct four new yacht clubs at key locations—Hong Kong International Airport, Lamma Island, Aberdeen, and Hung Hom—with a total capacity exceeding 1,100 berths. These facilities will feature new clubhouses designed to enhance infrastructure and support the city’s emerging yacht economy.
Transport and Logistics Secretary Mable Chan announced additional measures aimed at attracting international captains and superyachts. The Marine Department will collaborate with local training providers to offer online courses targeted at overseas yacht captains, as part of a strategy to position Hong Kong as a regional hub for superyacht activity.
The Southbound Travel for Yachts scheme began with five registered vessels from mainland China—three from Shenzhen, one from Zhuhai, and one from Guangzhou’s Nansha district—moored at Discovery Bay facilities operated by the Lantau Yacht Club, which hosted the launch event. Some mainland yacht owners expressed cautious optimism about the new arrangements. Max Teng, secretary general of the Shenzhen Boating Industry Association, described his journey as an "ice-breaking" experience but noted significant costs involved, including entry and exit clearance fees totaling nearly HK$17,000. Teng highlighted charges such as a 2,000 yuan processing fee per trip, a 2,000 yuan hourly port berthing fee, and a 1,000 yuan customs declaration fee per vessel, signaling potential barriers to frequent visits.
Another Shenzhen owner, who gave only his surname as Sheng, reported a more positive view. He said enhanced automation and standardization of procedures under the new scheme increased convenience, making the prospect of sailing to Hong Kong more appealing. Sheng planned a short leisure trip to Hong Kong, intending to visit shopping districts in Central and Tsim Sha Tsui, and expressed interest in sailing into Victoria Harbour for upcoming holiday fireworks displays. He suggested that if the scheme had launched before the recent National Day holiday, it might have encouraged a longer stay, as the sea route offers an alternative to congested roads during peak travel times.
The Hong Kong government’s initiatives are part of broader efforts set out in the city’s first five-year plan and latest policy address to foster a vibrant yacht economy, leveraging its strategic location and harbor infrastructure. Officials have indicated further measures will be forthcoming to solidify the city’s position in the competitive global superyacht market.