204 ASIA: REPORT New heights of discovery Cruise visitors to Hong Kong can immerse themselves in an array of cultural events, sports and attractions Just when seasoned cruise professionals think they know all about Hong Kong, the city continues to deliver immersive festive and cultural events, and attractions to create more new and exciting onshore experiences. This East-meets-West metropolis gives international cruise brands countless more reasons to make it a must-see port. Spectacular events Hong Kong hosts spectacular events throughout the year. While international and Western festivals such as Easter, Halloween and Christmas are widely celebrated in the city, it also retains traditions such as the Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races that are held on the waterfront of Tsim Sha Tsui East every June. “The integration of these onshore mega-events with onboard activities and excursion programmes brings twice as much fun to cruise passengers,” says Hong Kong Tourism Board. For example, 2,000 AIDA Cruises guests were treated to a display of Victoria Harbour fireworks and an exclusive New Year Party when AIDAbella docked in prime position at Ocean Terminal on 31 December 2023. The Hong Kong Tourism Board made the onboard countdown party all the merrier by organising traditional Chinese craft demonstrations and performances. In addition, the city hosts major events to inspire onshore programmes cruise passengers can partake in every month throughout the year. Festive celebrations like Cathay International Chinese New Year Night Parade, which is the first of the Chinese New Year celebrations in February, followed by the Lunar New Year Fireworks display on the second day, allow cruise guests to experience the energy of traditional festivities. Alongside historic festivals like the Chinese New Year, Hong Kong also celebrates international cuisine during the Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival, which is hosted in October every year. This event allows cruise passengers to explore the city by night and try Guests to the city enjoyed the Chinese New Year fireworks on 11 February 2024 Photo: Hong Kong Tourism Board
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