The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) today (November 5) held the launching ceremony of the "Fish enJoy" Scheme fishing vessels demonstration project at the Aberdeen Wholesale Fish Market, marking the first time that altered fishing vessels are used to carry passengers to sea and showcasing the diverse appeal of leisure fisheries.

     Officiating at the launching ceremony, the Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan, said that promoting the development of leisure fisheries is a key measure under the Blueprint for the Sustainable Development of Agriculture and Fisheries, and has also been incorporated into the Chief Executive's 2026 Policy Address. The Government has been actively exploring the development of leisure fisheries through the "vessel dual-use" model, subject to specific safety conditions and safe operation. Through close collaboration between the AFCD and the Marine Department (MD), technical matters relating to vessel equipment and licensing and insurance arrangements have been resolved. Fishermen's groups also received financial support from the Sustainable Fisheries Development Fund in March this year to launch the demonstration project, helping capture fishermen in upgrading, transforming and exploring more business opportunities.

     Fishing vessels licensed as Class III vessels have long been used for fishing only and are not permitted to carry passengers. To promote the sustainable development of fisheries, and following the launch of the "Fish enJoy" Scheme last year, which encouraged fish rafts and inland fish farms to develop leisure fisheries and has achieved notable success, the AFCD has decided to extend the "Fish enJoy" concept to fishing vessels.

     Safety is the top priority of the "vessel dual-use" demonstration project. With the support of the Fund, two fishing vessels have completed alterations, and have been confirmed by the MD as meeting the safety requirements for navigation and carrying passengers at sea. The two altered fishing vessels will officially commence operation and offer leisure fisheries experiential tours. The itinerary includes fishing activities, collecting catches and tasting freshly caught seafood on the spot, as well as visiting the wholesale fish markets to learn about their operations and sales processes. Through comprehensive and immersive experiences, the public's understanding of local fishermen's culture, local fisheries resources and the seafood supply chain will be deepened.

     The AFCD hopes that this demonstration project will expand the "Fish enJoy" Scheme to sea-based experiences on fishing vessels through practical operations, thereby providing members of the public and visitors with richer leisure options and advancing the diversified development of the industry.

Ends/Thursday, November 5, 2026
Issued at HKT 16:46

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