If you’ve seen pictures of Hong Kong from the 50’s and 60’s, you’ll be familiar with the armada of bat winged boats that used to wallpaper Victoria Harbour.
Like many things in the city, the junks have mostly fallen to progress, however, its still possible to ride a traditional Chinese Junk in Hong Kong. From the Hong Kong Tourism Board’s beloved Duk Ling, to sex and the city cocktails on Aqua’s boat, a ride on a traditional Chinese Junk in Hong Kong is one of the best experiences in the city.
The other meaning of a junk ride is a booze cruise. This is when locals load up with beer and bites and sail for the secluded islands and beaches of the South China Sea. A classic Hong Kong summer experience, you can spend the day dipping your toes in the water and barbecuing on the beach.
Below, you’ll find listings to enjoy either the traditional junk ride or the more modern version.
Hong Kong Tourism Board
Aqua Luna
Saffron Cruises
Jaspas Junks
Pack your passport, as tourists get a one-hour trip on the Duk Ling at a seriously reduced price. The junk is extremely popular and you’d be well advised to register ahead of time with the Tourism Board.
The Aqua group not only owns some of the city’s finest restaurants, they’ve also got one of its sleekest boats; a custom made wooden junk. The boat runs between Tsim Sha Tsui and Central around seven times daily. Your ticket also wins you access to one of their rocket-fuelled cocktails. The 45-minute cruise will cost you HK$150 (daytime) or HK$180 in the evening.
Saffron is Hong Kong’s biggest charter boat company, with a fleet of nearly fifteen boats. Boats are booked by the group, so unless you’ve won the lottery, you’ll need some friends to kick in some cash. Alternatively, Saffron occasionally offers party events for individuals, such as jazz nights and speed date Valentines.
Jaspas is Hong Kong’s original party boat, and their booze and food combinations are popular with a loud and rowdy crowd. Jaspas only organise group charters, with a minimum of fourteen people at a starting price of HK$550 per person.
