Hong Kong has taken another step towards becoming a regional yachting hub, with the launch of southbound yacht travel from Guangdong last Friday (October 16), completing two-way navigation between the two places.

Five yachts from Guangdong arrived in Hong Kong for the maiden voyage, following the launch of northbound yacht travel in June.

The scheme allows eligible Guangdong-registered yachts to visit Hong Kong, with owners able to complete procedures online in advance. The arrangements are expected to strengthen cross-boundary marine leisure links and attract more visitors from the Greater Bay Area and beyond.

Acting Financial Secretary Michael Wong said Hong Kong was well placed to tap into the growing global yacht market, particularly the luxury segment.

The city is also expanding its yachting infrastructure, with four new yacht clubs planned at the airport, Lamma Island, Aberdeen and Hung Hom. Together, they will provide more than 1,100 berths.

The new arrangements are expected to create fresh opportunities for tourism and related industries, supporting Hong Kong's development as a yachting destination.