Junk Trips with the Family in Hong Kong

 

Summer may be officially over, but one of the great things about Hong Kong is the warm weather that continues into the winter months, which makes boating with the family a year round activity. As junks can be hired for the day or night, you need to work out which makes most sense for you and your family. A day junk is better value for the money (and more child friendly) since they last for seven hours, compared with only four at night. But some of the boats are available for overnight trips, which can be really fun for children.

Remember not only do junks get snapped up fast so you might need to book at least 1-2 months in advance, but not all junk packages are the same. They range from the all-inclusive junks run by restaurants like Jaspas and Saffron, which provide all the food, alcohol and music, to junks allowing you to bring your own everything. Some junks also offer spa massages, wakeboarding, water-skiing and banana boat rides at an extra cost.

Most junks depart from Central, Causeway Bay (Noon Day Gun), Aberdeen or Sai Kung. Destinations are ultimately up to the captain and weather dependent, but popular spots include Lamma, Sai Kung, Deep Water Bay, Clearwater Bay, South Bay or Turtle Cove.

Hong Kong Yachting
Hong Kong Yachting owns and operates some of the most unique yachts & boats in Hong Kong. From Dragon, a 50-foot traditional wooden junk and the cruiser Mega, to their newest addition Jungle Jane, a 65-foot West Coaster… they have some of the coolest boats in Hong Kong! Families will love Tiger – a 46 foot Schionning Catamaran with 3 double cabins that arrives this autumn, which can be chartered for the weekend.
Tel: (852) 2526 0151 or info@hongkongyachting.com 

This is the boat you Mamas book when you want old school luxury. The restored eighty-foot classic motor yacht can accommodate up to 59 passengers over three decks. While its not cheap, with its teak sun decks, mahogany paneled living room, master suite and guest cabins, full kitchen and air conditioning… it really is a stunning option for day, evening or overnight boating. They offer catering menus for cocktails and canapés, seated dinners and buffet dining. Catered menus can include beverages, waiters and a chef when the menu requires – but guests can also organize their own catering.
Tel: (852) 6621 1691

Lazy Days
This sleek cruiser has Cantonese and English speaking staff and is beautifully appointed, with large beanbag loungers and great all-inclusive food and drink packages. Sassy Mamas will love the optional massage and beauty treatments while more active passengers will appreciate the staffs knowledge of the best hiking spots in town. Check out Sassy’s article here for the full scoop on a luxurious LazyDays boat trip (trust us, it’s awesome!)
Tel: (852) 3488 1534

Mes Amis
Uses a 44 foot Chinese pleasure junk that can accommodate parties of up to 32 people; includes a fully-equipped kitchen and a fully-stocked bar.
Tel: (852)3170 7063 or [email protected]

With day cruises to Stanley, Aberdeen, Cheung Chau or Tin Hau Temple on their traditional red-sailed junk; this glamourous ode to the past, run by the Aqua restaurant group is a good option for when you have out of town guests.

Built in 1973 the Huan is an 89-foot long, traditional 3 mast Chinese junk with a long, wide teak deck. Equipped to welcome up 59 people, Spysea can organize any kind of cruise from pirate birthday parties for the kids to beautiful sit down dinners.

Jaspas Junks
This is popular with Sassy Mamas, as they have packages to fit your theme and budget. Including freshly made food and drinks. Each junk can carry up to 38 people.

Junks hold up to 50 passengers; they offer catering and non-catering packages. They also provide sea-kayaks, snorkels and toys. We love the beanbags and Thai massage options.

Offer both junks and luxury boats; food and drink packages are available from catering company Shamrock.

Offers cruisers, teak junks, sailing yachts and speedboats with all-inclusive food and drink options.

This is a new company with boats for up to 40 people and a variety of packages, including an all-inclusive option with unlimited food and drink. Their boats start from Aberdeen, with banana boats and water-skiing available as add-on extras.

We have heard good things about this extension to the popular Koh Thai restaurants. Offering four different boats from a classic teak junk to a more modern white cruiser, their food and drink packages include the delicious Thai food their restaurants are famous for.
Tel: (852) 6014 8460 or [email protected]

 

Sassy Mama’s Top Tips for Staying Safe on the Water

1. Lifejackets save lives… But only if you wear them!
Make sure all kids wear a lifejacket when the boat is moving. Children’s lifejackets come in different sizes appropriate to the child’s body weight. Get into the habit of putting the kids in their jackets before boarding the boat and make sure friends know its a non negotiable part of kids being on the boat you take out.

2. The Captain’s in Charge
Make sure the kids know that there is only one Captain, and it’s important to follow his or her orders.

3. Boat Rules Must Be Followed
No running on deck. No sitting on the side rails, foredeck, dashboard, sun pad or swim platform when the boat is under way. Instruct children not to walk around while the boat is in motion.

4. Keep your eyes peeled
When you tow kids behind the boat on a banana, water skis or a wakeboard, designate one adult to be the official watcher, keeping their eyes on the towed rider at all times. Teach the kids hand signals they can use to tell you to speed up, go slower or stop.