OpinionHong Kong must factor community needs into marina development

As the government pursues its yacht tourism ambitions, it should ensure projects such as the one in Aberdeen benefit locals and visitors alike

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Yacht berths are seen at Aberdeen South Typhoon Shelter on March 25. Photo: Jelly Tse

Published: 6:45am, 30 Mar 2026

Marina development is finally making headway in Hong Kong after decades of being largely dead in the water. The plan to revamp an area in Aberdeen should be welcomed, as long as public access remains part of efforts to chart a course for the city to become a premier maritime gateway in Asia.

The goal is to convert a section of the southwest coast of Hong Kong Island into a new marina with 200 berths, a clubhouse and about 250 private flats by 2032. On Wednesday, the Development Bureau said it plans to launch a tender in the first half of 2027. The harbourfront site will deliver about 499,450 sq ft of gross floor area designated for a yacht clubhouse with basic repair facilities, catering and retail outlets, and 250 flats.

The first marina bid since the Gold Coast Yacht and Country Club in Tuen Mun nearly 40 years ago has already drawn strong market interest as well as hopes that the development will help float larger government efforts to boost yacht tourism. Long-overdue investment in the sector promises to do more than just attract luxury yachts and wealthy passengers. It has the potential to give rise to an ecosystem involving maintenance, hospitality and tourism.

The government also plans to provide hundreds of berths in stages with developments at the former Lamma Quarry area, the Hung Hom waterfront and Hong Kong International Airport to develop a yacht economy – potentially worth billions of dollars per year.

However, there are legitimate concerns that a “Monaco-style” vision could deliver more of a gated community reality. New maritime landmarks must be designed to cater to locals and visitors alike. Luxury and inclusivity do not need to be mutually exclusive.

Aberdeen’s charm is also tied to its working harbour heritage. It is encouraging that efforts to relocate shipyards and related trades have started. The non-profit sailing programme organisation Adventure-Ship is looking to relocate to a site in Tin Wan. Transparency and fairness must be maintained in the removal process. It will be a test of the government’s commitment to ensuring progress does not overshadow community interests.

.css-1c6uqr6{color:inherit;font-weight:inherit;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;line-height:inherit;overflow-wrap:break-word;}As the government pursues its yacht tourism ambitions, it should ensure projects such as the one in Aberdeen benefit locals and visitors alike

As the government pursues its yacht tourism ambitions, it should ensure projects such as the one in Aberdeen benefit locals and visitors alike