Hong Kong’s Yachting Tourism and Yachting Economy Roundtable
A recently co-organised roundtable, themed ‘Yachting Tourism and the Yachting Economy’ was held in Hong Kong. It saw Government officials and marine industry experts gathered to discuss the further development of yacht tourism in Hong Kong and the positive impact it could have on the local economy. Ms. Rosanna Law (JP, Secretary, Culture, Sports, and Tourism), Dr. Peter Lam (Chairman, Hong Kong Tourism Board), Hon. Lo Wai Kwok (Chairman, Business and Professional Alliance for Hong Kong) were in attendance, alongside members of industry associations and yachting experts.
The Hong Kong Boating Industry Association (HKBIA) extends thanks to those who participated as part of the panels. They were:
- Joe Yuen, Hon. Treasurer, Asia-Pacific Superyacht Association
- Martin Lo, Director, Cheoy Lee Shipyards
- Carmen Lau, Senior Advisor, Camper & Nicholsons
- Martin Lee, Executive Director of HKRI
- Adrian Pang, Commodore, RHKYC
- Dr. Johnnie Chan Chi Kau, SBS, BBS, JP, Vice Chairman, HK Water Sports Council
Speaking at the roundtable, Rosanna Law (Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism) said that "potential new yacht berthing facilities in the SAR should integrate onshore retail, dining and entertainment options to significantly enhance the tourism experience for visitors. Developing yacht tourism is key to establishing the city as a preferred tourist destination, aligning directly with objectives outlined in the latest tourism blueprint."
Law referenced proposals from last year's policy address, which included plans to expand yacht berthing capacity at three specific locations – the expansion area of Aberdeen Typhoon Shelter, the ex-Lamma Quarry area, and a waterfront site near Hung Hom Station - and said that these expansions would collectively provide nearly 600 new yacht berths.
Beyond government-led initiatives, Law also noted a separate proposal from the Airport Authority, which involves developing a large marina near Chek Lap Kok, as a component of the Skytopia development. The planned marina would offer approximately 500 yacht berths alongside supporting facilities and a variety of water-based recreational and leisure options. "I know that everyone hopes for the swift completion of the new berthing facilities, and the government shares this goal," she added. "The Development Bureau has stated that it will expedite finalising development parameters and requirements, conducting various technical assessments and completing the necessary statutory procedures. If the project is tendered under the traditional model, the tender process will be expedited. The government will also actively consider other development models that can expedite the process."
Law is also hopeful that Hong Kong will attract yacht owners not only from the Greater Bay Area, but also from other port cities across the nation, and internationally. "Yacht tourism will help attract visitors to spend and stay in Hong Kong," she said. "Beyond enjoying the world-famous Victoria Harbour and visiting our over 200 islands, we especially hope they will come ashore to spend and engage in activities, creating new business opportunities for Hong Kong businesses and generating greater economic benefits."
The Yachting Tourism and Yachting Economy Roundtable was organised in cooperation the with the BPA (Business and Professionals Alliance for Hong Kong) and CRECCHKI (China Real Estate Chamber of Commerce Hong Kong and International Chapter Limited) at the Legislative Council Complex on August 16, 2025.
Reporting by RHKYC and RTHK
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