Discover Hong Kong, the departure port for China cruises
Since the conversion of the former Kai Tak airport into a cruise terminal, Hong Kong has welcomed the world's largest ships and has become a favorite destination for cruise enthusiasts wishing to visit Chine.
Since the conversion of the former Kai Tak airport into a cruise terminal, Hong Kong has welcomed the world's largest ships and has become a favorite destination for cruise enthusiasts wishing to visit Chine.
A glimpse of the Kai Tak cruise terminal
Inaugurated in 2013, Kai Tak is a Hong Kong maritime gateway that opens to the world through major cruise ships. The site is managed by the Worldwide Cruise Terminals Consortium, a joint venture formed by three companies: Worldwide Flight Services, Royal Caribbean cruise line, and Neo Crown Ltd.
The infrastructure spans 4 levels and can accommodate 8,400 people during peak hours. It offers passengers a waiting area 56 meters wide, decorated with triangular floor-to-ceiling windows. 15 check-in counters and 7 express gates are also available for various passenger controls.
On the terminal's roof sits a public garden spanning 23,000 m², offering fresh air and spectacular views of Kowloon, Victoria Harbour, and the entire port infrastructure. The garden is surrounded by buildings housing boutiques and restaurants. Enjoying a drink while shopping before embarking would be quite pleasant.
Discovering iconic Hong Kong
Hong Kong stretches across an endless succession of skyscrapers. At night, these buildings illuminate the city while emanating a subtle Oriental perfume, and by day, they serve as the backdrop to an exuberant Asian lifestyle. As Asia's culinary capital, Hong Kong is the city where food is a way of life.
This city, rooted in customs and traditions, invites you to visit Wong Tai Sin Temple, a Taoist temple where visitors can ask the healing and benevolent spirit of Wong Tai Sin to fulfill their wishes for happiness or healing.
After this detour, ascending Victoria Peak via peak tram is one of the must-do stages of exploring the city. This summit features a panoramic platform with views across Hong Kong's entire skyline, Victoria Harbour, and the surrounding hills. A mini-cruise to the Kowloon Peninsula or a junk boat ride across Hong Kong Bay would also be an excellent option.
For shopping, Ladies' Market is the place to find souvenirs at bargain prices. Hong Kong's urban park, meanwhile, offers some greenery. It also houses a museum where you can sample traditional Chinese tea.
And why not end your city tour with an escape to Lantau Island, where you can encounter a giant Buddha and enjoy a leisurely walk along the island's scenic trails?
Frequently asked questions
The Kai Tak cruise terminal is located in the Kowloon City district. You can reach it by taxi, bus, or via shuttles provided by cruise lines. Allow approximately 20 to 30 minutes from central Hong Kong Island.
Several major cruise lines operate from the Kai Tak terminal, including Royal Caribbean International, Costa Cruises, Princess Cruises, and Dream Cruises. Itineraries typically include stops at Chinese ports such as Shanghai, Tianjin, or Xiamen.
A Hong Kong stopover is an opportunity to visit Wong Tai Sin Temple, ride the peak tram to Victoria Peak for panoramic city views, shop at Ladies' Market, or explore Lantau Island and its famous giant Buddha. The public garden at the Kai Tak terminal also offers beautiful views of Victoria Harbour.
The Kai Tak cruise terminal has a capacity of 8,400 people during peak hours. Spread across 4 levels, it features a 56-meter-wide waiting area, 15 check-in counters, 7 express gates, and a 23,000 m² public garden on its roof.
The best time to embark from Hong Kong is generally between October and April, when the weather is cooler and less humid. Summer (June to September) coincides with typhoon season, which can disrupt cruise departures.
