Meet the Dukling: Hong Kong’s Classic Junk Boat Goes Local to Weather the COVID Storm
Picture this: a sleek 1955‑built junk boat, the Dukling, gliding along Victoria Harbour, offering tourists a fresh angle on the city’s dazzling skyline. Once the pride of a fisherman and his family, the vessel has teamed up with downtown explorers since the 1980s and is now in the hands of a savvy operator who’s been steering the ship since 2014.
Why the Old‑School Charm is Still Steering the Boat
- Built in 1955 – the Dukling’s a nostalgic relic steaming through modern Hong Kong.
- Maritime family home – it used to house a fisherman and his crew, turning a simple fishing boat into a floating lifestyle.
- Tour legend since the ’80s – it’s been ferrying crowds over the harbor’s glittering lights for decades.
- 12 crew members – a tight crew that knows every dock, rumor, and best‑selling snack of the city.
Shift to a New Destination: Local Passengers
With international borders almost entirely shut for the past ten months, the Dukling’s usual crowd—foreign tourists eager for a scenic hop—has drastically dwindled. Enter Charlotte Li, director of business development at Dukling Limited. She’s pivoted the sails toward the local market.
“This disease has had a massive impact on the entire planet and Hong Kong is really dependent on trade and tourism,” Li says, leaning over the wooden deck as waves whisper below.
What’s the New Game Plan?
- Local Focus: Now the main ticket holders are residents, giving them a breathtaking view of their own city.
- Flexible Routes: The ship’s itinerary has been trimmed down to shorter, more frequent crossings, capitalizing on the neighborhood vibe.
- Community Partnerships: Collaboration with local hotels and cabins has opened up “Day‑Pass” promotions.
- Eco‑Friendly Angle: Emphasizing the boat’s low‑emission profile to match Hong Kong’s sustainability goals.
So while the Dukling’s golden days of international tourists may be quieter, the spirit of adventure—combined with a dash of local flavor—keeps it afloat. The boat hopes to chart a new course for the next wave of travelers, whether from home or abroad. Cheers to staying afloat in turbulent waters!
Local Sailing Shifts to Save Hong Kong’s Tourist Cruise
Visitor Drop: A Dramatic Slump
Since February, visitor numbers to Hong Kong have plunged by a staggering 96-99% each month. The city’s zenith was a bustling 7‑million‑visitor month, but that golden era is long gone.
Pivot to the Home Crowd
Facing the tidal wave of fewer tourists, Li has re‑crafted the cruising experience. Instead of the usual English narration, the boats now speak Cantonese, making the adventures feel more native and personal.
To lure even more locals, the routes have been tweaked to venture deeper into the archipelago, giving familiar faces an opportunity to rediscover their own backyard.
Why the Change?
- Fewer international passengers mean crews need a fresh, sustainable revenue stream.
- Cantonese tours create a bond with residents who might otherwise overlook the city’s maritime heritage.
- Extended routes tap into less saturated, scenic spots that locals love but rarely visit.
Family‑Friendly Sails
“My kids love boats,” enthused 36‑year‑old engineer Edmund Kwok as he steered the boat with his wife and two youngsters aboard.
The Junk Boat Revival
Once a fisherman’s lifeline, traditional Chinese junk boats have morphed into tourist icons. Many of the current fleets are replicas, crafted with the same spirit as their ancestors.
History in Every Hull
Li reminisced about the Dukling and its storied past: “Every plank and every piece of furniture here carries a tale. This vessel truly embodies Hong Kong.”
Looking Ahead
While the decline in foreign visitors poses a challenge, this bold shift toward local engagement signals a hopeful comeback for Hong Kong’s maritime tourism.
