When it comes to Hong Kong's coastal scenery, Sai Kung is definitely a treasure that is often overlooked by tourists. This humble harbour town located in the eastern part of the New Territories has long been known by locals as "Hong Kong's Back Garden", and the harbour cruise experience departing from here is the best way to discover another facet of Hong Kong—far from the urban hustle and bustle of Victoria Harbour, immerse yourself in the tranquil embrace of mountains and sea.
The greatest charm of Sai Kung harbour cruises lies in their ability to satisfy the dual desires for both "action" and "tranquility". Adventure seekers can choose speedboat island-hopping tours to explore hidden caves and beaches along the coastline; those who prefer a more relaxed experience can charter a boat to head out to sea, enjoying seafood and sunbathing on the azure waters. According to the latest market observations, small-group cruise services have been growing in popularity since 2025, with affordable prices starting from HK$380 per person making this maritime leisure activity accessible to more people.
Sai Kung Pier is the starting point for all tours. Here, boats of all sizes and types are docked, from traditional wooden sampans to modern luxury yachts. The area around the pier is lined with seafood restaurants, with the fresh scent of marine produce drifting through the air, creating a delightful fishing village atmosphere.
Pak Sha Wan Pier is another important departure point, especially since 2025 when all Jaspas Junks itineraries have been changed to depart from here. The advantage of this location is its spacious area, making boat scheduling more convenient, and it offers optional bus transfer services for an additional fee—making it more convenient for tourists unfamiliar with local transportation.
Leung Shuen Wan is the core area of the UNESCO Global Geopark. Taking a boat here allows you to witness the spectacular hexagonal rock column formations. This Geopark route is suitable for travelers interested in physical geography, with a duration of approximately 3-4 hours, during which guides will provide detailed explanations of the geological formations.
Kiu Tsui Chau is only about 15 minutes by boat from Sai Kung town centre, making it a popular island-hopping destination. The island features beaches and swimming areas with crystal-clear water, perfect for family outings. Some itineraries include a stay of approximately 2 hours at Kiu Tsui Chau, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the sunshine and seawater.
Yin Tin Tsai is another recommended destination. This small island preserves a strong Hakka cultural atmosphere, and the St. Joseph's Chapel on the island has been listed as a Grade III historic building. During the cruise, visitors can also sample special Hakka tea cakes, combining cultural experience with culinary delights.
Getting to Sai Kung from the city is convenient. The most common way is by MTR: take the MTR to Choi Hung Station (Exit C), then transfer to minibus 1A which goes directly to Sai Kung town centre, with a journey time of approximately 30 minutes; alternatively, transfer to minibus 101M from Hang Hau Station. Another option is to take bus 92 from Diamond Hill Station, or bus 792M from Tseung Kwan O. It is worth noting that during holidays, waiting times for minibuses may exceed 20 minutes, so it is advisable to set out early.
Regarding costs, there are quite diverse options on the market: Kaito Ferries round-trip fares range from HK$40 to HK$250, cash only, suitable for budget-conscious travelers or those wanting to experience traditional transport. For those wishing to charter a boat for sightseeing, Sea-E-O Boating offers more than 50 boats to choose from, with Inspiration Packages starting from HK$880 per person including meals; Jaspas Junks minimum charter fees start at HK$12,000, suitable for larger group gatherings. For individual travelers, small-group tours launched from June to August 2025 start from just HK$380 per person, offering the lowest barrier to experience.
Cruise tours typically depart at 10:00 AM and end after approximately 6 hours. It is recommended to book at least one month in advance, especially during weekends and holiday peak seasons, as boats fill up quickly. Before setting out, be sure to check the weather forecast—weather at sea can be unpredictable. It is advisable to bring sunscreen, a hat, drinking water, and light snacks. In recent years, global fuel prices have fluctuated, and some operators may adjust their fees—confirm the quoted price again before departure.
Hong Kong City Data
- Tourism Scale: According to the Hong Kong Tourism Board, Hong Kong welcomed 34 million visitors in 2024, with total tourism revenue exceeding HK$100 billion.
- Dining Density: Hong Kong has over 15,000 licensed restaurants throughout the city, with a restaurant per capita density ranking among the highest globally, and over 70 Michelin-starred restaurants.
- Cultural Status: Hong Kong is a major international metropolis in Asia, ranking fourth in the 2024 Global Financial Centers Index, with companies from over 90 countries establishing their Asia-Pacific regional headquarters here.
