At a recent Legislative Council meeting, Hong Kong’s culture minister, Rosanna Law Shuk-pui, surprised many by revealing that she is a licensed scuba diver. She shared that Pak Lap Wan in Sai Kung, which has become a popular destination for hikers due to the nearby High Island Reservoir East Dam and its stunning hexagonal rock columns, was where she first dived. Law, a certified rescue diver, expressed her concerns about the ecological impact of constructing a pier in the area, emphasizing the need to preserve its natural resources.
Though not typically known as a scuba diving hotspot, Hong Kong does have appeal for divers. Situated near the Coral Triangle, an area with an extraordinary diversity of marine life, Hong Kong offers some opportunities for diving. However, its proximity to the Pearl River results in lower water visibility, which can detract from the experience. Hong Kong-based underwater photographer Simon Lorenz notes that despite the challenges, the city does boast a rich coral and fish variety.
The popularity of scuba diving in Hong Kong has grown in recent years, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic, when travel restrictions led more locals to explore their own waters. Before the pandemic, the city had around 30 to 50 diving boats, a number that has likely increased due to the rising local demand. Neil Kane, the head instructor at Sai Kung Scuba, confirms this trend, stating that the majority of divers are local residents looking for weekend adventures or diving courses. While Hong Kong isn’t widely recognized as a diving destination for international tourists, the city’s compactness means that good diving locations are never more than a 30-minute drive from the urban area.
The eastern coast of Hong Kong, including islands such as Tsim Chau, Tai Chau, and the Ninepin Islands, is considered ideal for diving due to clearer water. However, these locations lack regular ferry services, limiting access for potential divers. Both Kane and Lorenz agree that with better logistics, Hong Kong’s diving scene could grow, potentially attracting more overseas visitors.
To boost the local diving scene, both experts suggest promoting ecotourism focused on coral reef conservation, which doesn’t require perfect visibility but instead offers divers valuable educational experiences. They also advocate for the creation of an underwater theme park, similar to those in Dubai, which could further increase interest in Hong Kong’s underwater world.
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