HK's historic 'Dukling' junk boat turns into 'floating museum'

Hong Kong’s iconic junk boat, the "Dukling" is operating as a "floating museum" to celebrate its 70th anniversary, inviting Hongkongers to take a nostalgic journey through the city’s rich maritime heritage and vibrant past.

Available from 4 August to 30 September 2025, the 'floating museum' features nine heritage information spots and two activity spots on board, offering a rich cultural journey, including carefully curated historical photos, fishermen’s tools, treasured artefacts onboard, and interactive elements.

From trying on a classic fisherman’s hat to admiring artefacts up close or simply soaking in the panoramic harbour views, guests are invited to relive Hong Kong’s treasured maritime memories.

Special ticket discounts have been offered to Hong Kong residents, reducing the price from HK176 to HK$70 per entry. 

Hazen Tang, director of Dukling, said, “With most traditional Chinese junks vanished, Dukling’s survival and continued voyage after 70 years of ups and downs is rare and precious. She is much more than just a boat - She carries our collective memories and stands as a living testament to our history. Turning her into a floating museum allows Hongkongers, especially the younger generation, to connect with this and inherit this invaluable cultural legacy.

Since 1955, the Dukling has sailed the waters of Victoria Harbour, evolving from a fishing boat to a beloved sightseeing vessel, witnessing Hong Kong's transformation from a humble fishing village into a vibrant metropolis over the decades. The Dukling’s own story is one of resilience: after tragically sinking in 2014, she was miraculously restored while preserving her original form, and set sail once again as a guardian of Hong Kong’s maritime heritage. Today, it stands as the last antique junk

Tang sees the vessel, Hong Kong's oldest surviving junk boat, as a symbol of the city’s resilient "Lion Rock spirit" and believes it deserves broader recognition among locals. In response to changing post-pandemic travel trends, Tang has expanded the Dukling’s presence to mainland tourists via platforms such as Xiaohongshu and WeChat mini programmes.

To further attract visitors, the Dukling has hosted private charters, live music events, and even collaborated with dried seafood vendors to offer onboard abalone tasting experiences. The boat’s captain, meanwhile, confessed that navigating the Dukling was initially a formidable task - describing it as the most challenging vessel he has ever operated. Its vintage design, low-powered engine, and long, blunt hull make maintenance difficult and docking particularly tricky.

MARKETING-INTERACTIVE has reached out to Dukling for more information.

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