Travel » Hong Kong

Hong Kong: fragrant harbour

As a former British colony, Hong Kong has long had an active sailing scene. Now a new flag flies over the terri­tory and the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club but that hasn’t reduced the interest in sailing. By member’s vote, the ‘Royal’ was retained in Eng­lish, but removed from the name in Cantonese, signalling the club’s intention to remain a force in local yachting circles with both Chinese and expa­triates. In Hong Kong’s other sailing clubs, the emphasis has also moved to attracting new local members. There are ac­tive clubs in Aberdeen and Hebe Haven, and the Urban Council also takes a hand in training budding sailors.

A number of operators in­cluding Blue Surround and Sunsail, offer charters out of Hong Kong. Those looking for some instant excitement can try their luck with the active, and enthusiastic Hobie fleet. With the China Race Week set to join the Asian Perpetual Cup Series next year, things are looking good on the rac­ing front too. Hong Kong al­ready has leading yachtsmen such as the Sydney-Hobart winner Carl Kwok, the search is on to find others to join him on the rostrum.