Hong Kong lawmakers are calling for stronger efforts to promote yacht tourism, seeing an opportunity to strengthen the city's maritime economy and regional ties within the Greater Bay Area (GBA).

Hong Kong’s southernmost island of Po Toi.

The Legislative Council passed a non-binding motion on 20 March 2025 on effectively utilising Hong Kong's coastline and islands to promote and support the growth of marine tourism.

The legislators believe that with regulations, improved infrastructure, and working closely with Hong Kong's fishing sector could help position the country as a top luxury maritime destination in Asia.

Aberdeen Marina Club in Hong Kong

Lawmaker Kenneth Lau, a member of the Legislative Council of Hong Kong, proposed the motion and suggested that key strategies should focus on yacht tourism, island resorts and marine eco-tours, highlighting Hong Kong's 1,180-kilometre coastline, 263 islands and a natural deep-water port.

Lau cited data from the International Council of Marine Industry Associations indicating that the global yacht trade value is $40 billion USD, with annual revenue exceeding $50 billion USD. Lau also mentioned that China is a growing market for yacht tourism.

He also urged the government to promote yacht tourism in the GBA and maintain communication with the local yachting industry to successfully align with the national development plan.

Hong Kong’s Shelter Cove

Lawmaker Aron Kwok amended the motion and suggested improving infrastructure on islands such as Dong Ping and Po Toi Island, including installation of water and power supply systems through new energy sources and telecommunications network stations.

Kwok added that the government should strengthen the fusion of Hong Kong's sector with its culinary heritage by developing multifaceted fishermen's piers in popular harbours such as Tsing Shan Monastery, Aberdeen and Lei Yue Mun.

 Lantau Yacht Club at Discovery Bay, Lantau Island.

Culture, Sports and Tourism Secretary Rosanna Law responded that the government supports mutually beneficial cooperation with other cities in the GBA. "We encourage the industry to develop maritime tourism products with multiple stops, allowing both Hong Kong and the GBA to benefit simultaneously."

Secretary Law added that the Marine Department has been actively supporting yacht travel in the GBA, with mainland yachts smoothly visiting Hong Kong under current arrangements.

Meanwhile, Under Secretary for Development David Lam said that the government will conduct market surveys to gather early feedback from developers on yacht berth operations, including scale, quantity, types and necessary facilities