Just when I think I have exhausted everything that Hong Kong has to
offer, another alluring aspect of this captivating city is revealed to me. It
really grates on me when people say that Hongkers is just another concrete
jungle because, there is so much more to it than Soho and shopping malls.
Whether you’re seeking out some space on the outlying islands, longing for luscious
greenery, or craving the serenity of open water, it’s so easy to step out of
the rat race and explore the tranquillity that is right on our doorstep.
Hello Hong Kong presents the perfect opportunity to make this happen
with their latest bespoke boat tour - which offers passengers the chance to
sail on a pristine 55 foot motor yacht from Victoria Harbour to Stanley. The
difference between this experience and any other junk boat trip, is the opportunity
to learn all about the history and evolution of Hong Kong along the way. The Hong
Kong by Sea Tour kicked off at 9am from a pick-up point in Causeway Bay, where
I boarded the May Oui, kicked off my shoes and nestled in top deck - all in the
name of research. It’s a tough job, I know!
The tour was led by the lovely, engaging and hilarious Laura
Blackhall, who has lived here for five years and has diligently done her
homework on all things Hong Kong: from real estate to the Opium Wars to
pirates! Laura was a superb leader and welcomed each one of her passengers with
ease and encouraged participation and interaction between all of us. From the
moment I stepped on board, I felt very well attended to and excited to embark
upon a contemporary and luxurious history lesson. A special shout out must also go to Captain
Donald, who regaled us with thrilling tales of his years at sea which was
absolutely fascinating - this legend has certainly got a book or two in him!
We started with a casual cruise to soak in
the colours and chaos of the sensational skyline; even after three years, I
never tire of marvelling at the sheer scale and magnitude of it. We then moved
down to the Container Port – the super hub that is ranked as the world’s fifth
busiest port. As we drifted among the enormous cargo ships, it felt like we had
been granted a backstage pass with special access to observe the trading
activity that has contributed considerably to the economic development of Hong
Kong. Laura provided us with just enough information; putting everything into
context in a coherent and relatable way, so it never felt like information
overload.
Moving along to Aberdeen Harbour, we
observed the floating restaurants and the floating village where the Tanka
people (or Boat People) live in traditional junk boats. It was during this section
of the tour that we heard more about how the opium trade led to Britain’s
colonisation of Hong Kong and the colourful backdrop was a prime location for
some spectacular selfies!
We then journeyed south to Deep Water Bay
and Repulse Bay for a glance at some of the world’s most eye-wateringly
expensive real estate and listened intently to some juicy local celebrity
gossip. Laura did provide us with some top tips on potentially negotiating a
reduced rent (so long as you’re willing to stay in a seriously spooky
residence!) and the predominant influence of Feng Shui on local architectural
design.
Our four hour voyage ended in the sublime setting
of Stanley and anecdotes about the pirates who ruled the waters there. Laura
also happily helped the tourists with information on what to see and do in
Stanley, before personally seeing each one of us on to land safely.
I immensely enjoyed the Hong Kong by Sea
Tour and came away with a lot more knowledge about the history and commerce of
Hong Kong. However, I do feel that the cost of $975, per person, is too high.
There is no denying that the vessel and the tour guides are of supreme quality
but, I think in order to justify such a high price point, Hello Hong Kong
should consider providing passengers with some substantial food and beverage
options. At the moment, they offer very basic snacks and soft and alcoholic
beverages. Given that the tour runs from 9am to 1pm, I think the addition of a
variety of breakfast pastries, teas and coffees would be warmly welcomed. With
that in mind, if you are willing to splash the cash, or treat some of your
visiting friends and family, this is certainly a refreshing and novel and way
to spend a morning in the 852.
Original post appeared on Sassy Hong Kong
http://www.sassyhongkong.com/whatsonhk-hello-hong-kong-junk-trip/
All images courtesy of Hello Hong Kong
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