Dinner Buffet: Victoria Harbour Cruise by Bauhinia

A relaxing evening aboard the Victoria Harbour Cruise by Bauhinia offers a chance to enjoy Hong Kong’s glittering skyline while indulging in a buffet dinner. For around $44 per person, you get approximately two hours of scenic navigation along Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, with options for sunset or light show cruises. The cruise includes soft entertainment, a buffet of local and international dishes, and a chance to mingle with other travelers.

What we appreciate most about this experience are the spectacular harbor views—particularly at sunset or during the Symphony of Lights show—and the laid-back atmosphere that makes it easy to unwind after a busy day exploring the city. The affordable price point offers decent value—especially if you enjoy casual dinners with a side of sightseeing.

However, a key consideration is the lack of included transport—you’ll need to make your way to the North Point ferry pier on your own, which might be an extra step for visitors unfamiliar with Hong Kong’s public transit. Plus, the experience’s focus on the cruise itself means it’s best suited to those looking for a relaxed, scenic evening rather than a comprehensive tour of Hong Kong.

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want a low-key, scenic dinner with good views and easy entertainment, especially if they’re comfortable navigating Hong Kong’s public transportation system.

Key Points

• Scenic Views: Offers beautiful vistas of Victoria Harbour, especially at sunset or during the Symphony of Lights show.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: A buffet dinner combined with live music creates a casual, enjoyable environment.
• Self-Transport Required: You need to find your way to North Point ferry pier; no hotel pickup is included.
• Limited Tour Guide Service: No guided commentary beyond the cruise staff’s assistance.
• Booking Restrictions: Tickets are only sold when the credit card and passport holder are the same person, with a strict non-refundable policy.
• Group Size: The vessel accommodates up to 350 passengers, but the tour itself is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, promoting a more intimate experience.

Detailed Review of the Victoria Harbour Dinner Buffet Cruise by Bauhinia

Setting and Itinerary

The Bauhinia cruise offers a modest but charming way to see Hong Kong’s iconic skyline from the water. Starting at the North Point (East) Passenger Ferry Pier, you’ll meet friendly staff who are there to assist with boarding. The cruise itself lasts about two hours, which is a reasonable length to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed or fatigued.

The route takes in Eastern Hong Kong Island, Eastern Kowloon, Tsim Sha Tsui, Central, Admiralty, Wanchai, and Causeway Bay. These areas are among the most vibrant parts of the city, and from the water, you’ll get a spectacular view of the glittering skyscrapers, busy harbor activity, and the famous Hong Kong skyline, especially when lit up after sunset.

The Dining Experience

The buffet dinner is served aboard the ship, and while the exact menu isn’t detailed, the emphasis is on a sumptuous spread in a relaxed setting. Expect a mixture of local and international options—think seafood, dim sum, salads, and possibly some Western favorites. The casual dress code (no formal attire required) encourages a laid-back dining atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

A notable feature is the live band performing music during the cruise, which adds a pleasant ambiance. Depending on the time chosen—either the Sunset Dinner Cruise (17:30–19:15) or the Symphony of Lights Cruise (19:30–21:30)—you’ll experience either the glow of the sunset or the illuminated skyline with synchronized light shows.

Views and Atmosphere

One of the main draws of this tour is the viewing experience. You can expect to see the city’s vibrant lights reflected on the water, with panoramic vistas of Hong Kong’s skyscrapers, Victoria Peak, and the busy shipping lanes. The cruise provides plenty of opportunities for photos and simply soaking in the scene.

The atmosphere is generally relaxed, with many travelers enjoying mingling, dancing, or simply taking in the spectacular sights. The live music adds a touch of festivity, making it feel more like a social event than a formal tour.

Practical Details and Booking

Booking requires an e-ticket, which is only issued when the credit card holder and passport holder are the same person. The cruise staff will ask you to send a photo of your passport page, and the actual cruise ticket is separate from the voucher you get from Viator. This process might seem cumbersome but is designed for security.

The meeting point is conveniently located near public transit—North Point MTR Station Exit A1—about a 10-minute walk to the ferry pier. No hotel pickup or guide service is included, so plan to arrive on your own.

Price and Value

At $43.93 per person, this cruise offers a fairly affordable way to experience Victoria Harbour at night. The price includes the dinner buffet and scenic cruise, but not additional extras like guided commentary or transportation. For travelers seeking a casual, scenic dining experience with good views, this ticket provides reasonable value.

However, the non-refundable policy means you should be sure of your plans, and the ticket purchase restrictions might complicate last-minute changes.

What Travelers Say

With only one review available, it’s hard to gauge overall satisfaction. The review is simply a blank comment, indicating perhaps that some travelers might not find this experience particularly memorable or worth reviewing.

But from the provided description, we can infer that those who enjoy relaxed sightseeing with good food and views might appreciate this cruise. It’s not designed as an in-depth tour but as a leisurely evening activity.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is best suited to travelers who value scenic views and a relaxed vibe over guided commentary or elaborate tours. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a casual dinner with a view after a day of exploring Hong Kong. It’s also a good option for those who are comfortable navigating public transportation and don’t mind the booking restrictions and the lack of hotel pickup.

If you’re hoping for a romantic evening or a fun social gathering with music and good company, this cruise can deliver that. But if you desire a more interactive or educational experience, you might find this cruise a bit lacking.

FAQ

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, bookings are typically made about 7 days ahead, and tickets are non-refundable.

Can I get a ticket if I am not the credit card holder?
No, the ticket can only be issued when the credit card and passport holder are the same person, and you’ll need to send a photo of your passport to confirm.

Is transportation included?
No, you need to make your own way to North Point ferry pier, which is accessible by MTR or walking.

What’s the dress code?
Casual attire is perfectly fine—no need for formal wear.

What if the weather is bad?
The cruise may be suspended if tropical cyclone or rainstorm warning signals are issued at or after 3PM, and the Symphony of Lights show might be canceled even if the warning is lifted.

Are there guided commentary during the cruise?
No, there are no guided tours or commentary. You’ll be primarily enjoying the views and music.

How many people are on the cruise?
While the vessel can hold up to 350 passengers, the tour is limited to about 15 travelers for a more intimate experience.

To sum it up, the Victoria Harbour Dinner Buffet cruise by Bauhinia offers a straightforward way to enjoy Hong Kong’s iconic skyline from the water, with the added pleasures of a buffet dinner and live music. It’s a good choice for those wanting a relaxed, scenic evening that’s easy on the budget and doesn’t require a guided tour. Travelers who appreciate stunning views, casual dining, and a laid-back atmosphere will likely find it worth their while, provided they’re comfortable with the logistics of getting there and the booking restrictions. If you’re seeking a fun, informal way to see the harbor and enjoy a bit of entertainment, this cruise could be just the ticket.