Reporting by Kayli Liebenberg
Photos courtesy of Hong Kong Dolphinwatch
Dolphin watching can be one of the most serene experiences a person can have. Watching the dolphins emerge from the water after waiting patiently for them to make their appearance is a truly unforgettable experience. If you have a passion for dolphin watching or are intrigued by the idea, Lantau-based Hong Kong Dolphinwatch (www.hkdolphinwatch.com) is your local go-to, the first of its kind in Hong Kong and widely recognised as a genuine eco-tour operator.
Tours start at Tung Chung New Development Pier, typically heading west along Lantau’s northern coast to search for the dolphins. But there’s no fixed route. “It depends on the sea and weather conditions – and it’s the dolphins’ home you are visiting, they can be anywhere,” a Hong Kong Dolphinwatch spokesperson explains. “Sometimes we may have to go to Fan Lau, the most western tip of Lantau; sometimes, we go along the Hong Kong- Zhuhai-Macau Bridge or turn north towards Lung Kwu Chau.”
With Hong Kong Dolphinwatch you can book either a chartered or scheduled trip and there are two boats to choose from (capacity 35 and 55). There is no age limit (newborns and seniors are welcome), and you can hop aboard year-round, since the dolphins do not migrate. “When we are asked when is the best time to see the dolphins, our answer is whenever you have time for them,” says the spokesperson, adding that in terms of sightings, Hong Kong Dolphinwatch boasts a 97% success rate.
Of course, the dolphins off Lantau are Indo- Pacific humpback dolphins (aka pink dolphins) – an endangered species. But Hong Kong Dolphinwatch is adamant that its trips do not pose a threat to the dolphins. “As an eco-tour operator, we are dedicated to informing passengers and raising awareness for conservation, without impacting negatively on the dolphins. If all boats in dolphin habitat are well-behaved, you don’t have to worry about the dolphins being injured by propellers or stressed out by loud boat engine noise.
“We never chase; we just watch from a distance,” the spokesperson adds. “We wait for the dolphins to approach us of their own free will, if they prefer to keep a distance, we respect their wish.”
Every trip with Hong Kong Dolphinwatch leaves a lasting impression, fostering a deep appreciation for the natural wonders that surround us. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking a unique and meaningful experience, dolphin watching is the perfect thing to do with the family or even by yourself.