Hong Kong ‘Aqua Luna’ Dim Sum Cruise

Imagine cruising through Hong Kong Harbor aboard a beautiful traditional Chinese junk boat, the Aqua Luna, while savoring a selection of delicious dim sum and taking in some of the most iconic sights of the city. This 1 hour 30-minute experience, priced at around $62.67 per person, combines sightseeing with culinary delights—perfect for those wanting a relaxed yet memorable Hong Kong adventure. Departing from Hong Kong Central or Tsim Sha Tsui, you’ll glide past the bustling harbor, stopping at Aberdeen to see its mix of sampans, luxury yachts, and fishing boats.

Two things stand out for us: first, the chance to enjoy authentic dim sum made with quality ingredients like black garlic and black truffle—you’re not just sightseeing, but also tasting Hong Kong’s culinary culture. Second, the boat itself is a visual treat; the Aqua Luna is a striking vessel that perfectly captures the charm of old Hong Kong with modern comfort.

A possible drawback? The cruise is relatively short, just about an hour and a half, so if you’re looking for an all-day experience, this might feel a bit light. Also, since the tour does not include hotel transportation, you’ll need to plan how to get to the departure point. This experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate gourmet bites and scenic views in a laid-back setting—perfect for a quick intro to the harbor or a relaxing midday escape.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Combines sightseeing and dining on a traditional Chinese junk boat.
• Beautiful Views: Offers a unique perspective of Hong Kong’s skyline, Victoria Harbour, and Aberdeen.
• Quality Dim Sum: Enjoy a variety of tasty dim sum treats made with ingredients like black garlic and black truffle.
• Convenient & Intimate: Small group size (max 10 travelers) ensures a personalized experience.
• Great Value: For just over $60, you get a scenic cruise, meal, and a complimentary drink.
• Ideal for Foodies & Sightseers: Perfect for anyone wanting a taste of Hong Kong’s culinary scene combined with harbor views.

A Closer Look at the Hong Kong ‘Aqua Luna’ Dim Sum Cruise

Taking a cruise through Victoria Harbour on the Aqua Luna isn’t your typical harbor tour. It’s a mix of authentic surroundings, cultural authenticity, and gastronomic pleasure. Let’s walk through what makes this experience noteworthy and what you can expect along the way.

The Boat: A Visual and Cultural Icon

The Aqua Luna is a striking vessel, resembling the traditional Chinese junk boats that have been sailing these waters for centuries. Its wooden decks, intricate details, and classic design make it a picturesque sight both from land and aboard. Several reviews highlight how beautiful and well-decorated for the holidays the boat is, adding to the charm.

Visitors consistently mention the boat’s authentic style, which transports you back to old Hong Kong while providing modern comforts. Its two decks offer enough space for a relaxed cruise, with plenty of seating options for enjoying the view. The wooden design is not just nostalgic but also sturdy and well-maintained, making for a comfortable ride.

The Itinerary: A Well-Paced Harbor Experience

The tour departs from Hong Kong Central or Tsim Sha Tsui, areas easy to reach via the Airport Express or MTR. It then sails toward Aberdeen, a harbor town famous for its fishermen, sampans, and luxury yachts. This stop offers a fascinating contrast: traditional fishing boats vs. modern private yachts, showcasing Hong Kong’s maritime diversity.

Cruising past old fishing junks and sampans, you’ll get a sense of the harbor’s working-class roots, juxtaposed against the affluent lifestyle represented by yachts. The views of Victoria Harbour and Kowloon are spectacular, whether it’s day or night, but daytime offers clearer sightlines, perfect for photography.

The Food: Dim Sum on the Water

This is the highlight for many. The dim sum served features treats like har gau with black truffle, steamed barbecue buns, and other bite-sized delights crafted by the chefs of the Dim Sum Library. Several reviews note how delicious and generous the portions are, with some calling it the best dim sum they ever had.

The dim sum is described as fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented, made with quality ingredients such as black garlic. The experience isn’t just about eating; it’s about tasting Hong Kong’s culinary heritage in a relaxed setting. The complimentary drink—likely a soft drink or alcohol—complements the meal, with additional beverages available for purchase.

Authenticity and Atmosphere

Many travelers appreciated the authentic atmosphere onboard. The crew is described as helpful and friendly, enhancing the experience. The boat’s classic design and marketed holiday decor contribute to a festive, cozy environment.

The Reviews: Glowing Feedback

Most reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with an average score of 4.9 out of 5. Travelers emphasize the value for money, noting that the short duration is just right for a quick, delightful experience. As one reviewer put it, the cruise is “short & sweet but very efficient.”

Several mention how easy it is to find the departure point, taking the Airport Express to Hong Kong Central, with well-signposted directions. Even in poor weather, some reviewers still recommend the cruise, citing the stunning views and delicious dim sum.

Potential Drawbacks

While most reviews are glowing, a few critics find the price slightly high for what’s included. One pointed out that not all items photographed (like custard tarts) are always served, and the drink voucher is limited to one beverage per person. Also, since hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, you’ll need to handle your own transportation.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is ideal for food lovers eager to sample authentic dim sum while enjoying spectacular harbor views. It’s also great for those short on time but wanting a memorable Hong Kong moment. The small group size ensures a personalized, intimate experience, which many reviews highlight as a plus.

If you’re a photography enthusiast, the scenic views of Victoria Harbour and Aberdeen are particularly compelling. For families or couples looking for a relaxed, cultural experience that combines culinary delight with sightseeing, this cruise hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This Hong Kong ‘Aqua Luna’ Dim Sum Cruise offers a satisfying mix of authentic cuisine, stunning vistas, and cultural charm. It’s a short, well-paced journey that gives you a taste of Hong Kong’s maritime history and culinary prowess. The beautiful vintage boat and the quality dim sum make it a worthwhile experience for foodies and sightseers alike.

While it’s not a full-day adventure, its value lies in the quality of the scenic and culinary experience packed into a manageable 90 minutes. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with tasting in a relaxed, intimate setting. Whether you’re stopping over for a day or just want a different perspective of the harbor, this cruise is a delightful way to spend an afternoon in Hong Kong.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for people with moderate physical fitness?
Yes. The cruise requires only light walking or standing, and the boat is accessible for most travelers with moderate fitness levels.

Does the tour include hotel pick-up or drop-off?
No. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the departure points at Hong Kong Central or Tsim Sha Tsui.

How long is the cruise?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a perfect short break from sightseeing.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the cruise, dim sum lunch, and one complimentary drink.

Are additional drinks available onboard?
Yes, extra drinks can be purchased at the bar on the boat.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 10 travelers, which keeps the experience intimate and personalized.

Is the cruise suitable in bad weather?
If weather conditions are poor, the tour may be canceled for safety reasons, in which case you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I expect to see specific sights like Victoria Peak or Space Museum?
No, the cruise focuses on harbor views, Aberdeen, and the skyline, but not specific landmarks like Victoria Peak.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for the weather—bring a jacket if it’s cool or windy. The boat’s interior is sheltered, but the open deck is exposed.