Hainan News from HKBIA

Hong Kong Boating Industry Association have shared an information paper on ‘Arrangement on Facilitation of Yachting between Hong Kong SAR and Hainan Province’ in China. The information paper informs Members about the Arrangement (Annex) signed between the Marine Department (MD) and the Maritime Safety Administration (MSA) of the Ministry of Transport on 30 June 2022.

Background:  In recent years, there has been increasing trend of yachts operated by Hong Kong yacht operators for sailing in Mainland waters. In order to facilitate yachting activities, MD and MSA developed the Arrangement for yacht operators to comply with when sailing to Hainan Province.

The Arrangement: The Arrangement contains the safety requirements and declaration form and applies to Hong Kong registered or licensed yachts only. Prior to sailing to Hainan Province, the operator of the concerned yacht needs to hold Pleasure Vessel Operator Certificate of Competency (Grade 1 or Grade 2) issued by MD. The owner, operator and the agent of the concerned yacht are also required to comply with the safety requirements and sign a declaration form accordingly. The Arrangement has come into force since 1 August 2022.  

For any enquires on the Arrangement, please contact MarDep, Local Vessels Safety Section (Tel: 2852 4430).

Hong Kong Marine Department August 2022