Guangdong yacht scheme opens for applications ahead of Friday debut
Hong Kong's Marine Department opened applications on Wednesday for the 'Guangdong Yacht Southbound' scheme, which launches Friday. Owners or captains can apply up to 30 days before arrival, with online declarations required 30 hours before docking and 4 hours before leaving mainland waters.
Hong Kong's Marine Department said on Wednesday that applications for the 'Guangdong Yacht Southbound' scheme are now open, ahead of the first voyage on Friday. Under the scheme, owners or captains of Guangdong-registered yachts wishing to sail south to Hong Kong can complete cross-border procedures as early as 30 days before arrival.
Applicants must submit online declarations to Hong Kong authorities at least 30 hours before arriving in the city, and to mainland authorities at least four hours before departing mainland waters, the department said.
The scheme is part of broader efforts by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government to facilitate yacht travel between Guangdong and Hong Kong. Over the past few months, authorities have trained and assessed mainland captains on their knowledge of Hong Kong waters, according to earlier government statements.
The Marine Department has also set up a real-time yacht movement monitoring system to assist with berthing arrangements for Guangdong yachts. In addition, an electronic business system has been introduced to provide one-stop convenience services for crew members and passengers travelling on these vessels.
The first voyage under the scheme is scheduled for Friday, marking the start of regular operations.