Guangdong yacht scheme launches tomorrow with five approvals
Hong Kong's Marine Department has approved five mainland yacht applications for the first day of the "Guangdong Yachts South" scheme, starting tomorrow. Five anchorage areas offer 115 berths, with real-time monitoring and 300 trained mainland captains ensuring safe operations.
The Marine Department has approved five applications from mainland Chinese yachts to enter Hong Kong for the inaugural run of the "Guangdong Yachts South" scheme tomorrow, Director of Marine Wang Shifa said today on RTHK's Millennium programme. The vessels can proceed once they complete mainland exit formalities, he added.
Five anchorage areas have been designated for participating yachts. Asked about possible quotas, Wang said the areas provide 115 berths for vessels up to 40 metres long, which he described as sufficient, so no quota system is needed.
The department operates a dynamic monitoring system that tracks yacht positions in real time to prevent overcrowding in anchorage areas, which could pose navigational risks. Automatic identification systems and radio communications on board allow the department to monitor yacht movements and maintain contact, Wang said.
The monitoring system includes an electronic fence function. If a yacht enters a restricted zone or its automatic identification system fails, the system sends a notification advising corrective action, and patrol officers will go to assist, Wang explained.
About 300 mainland captains have completed training and examinations, focusing on Hong Kong waters, including channel layouts, speed-restricted zones, and routes of high-speed ferries, according to Wang.
The department will step up marine patrols, and any yacht found breaking the law will face enforcement action, with serious cases leading to prosecution. If a yacht leaves Hong Kong waters, the department will notify mainland regulators for follow-up, Wang said.