HONG KONG NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY

BOAT TRIP TO NORTH EAST WATERS - 

SHEK NGAU CHAU TERN WATCH

Everywhere, Tern, Tern, Tern,

There is a season, Tern, Tern, Tern,

And a time to every purpose under heaven

A time to be born, a time die,

A time to nest, a time to fly

(With apologies to the Birds, sorry! The Byrds)

Yes, it’s time for a boat trip to watch the Terns nesting on one of the rocky islands of Hong Kong, near to Tap Mun Chau. For those who have never viewed this, the massed nesting of the terns is truly spectacular. We do not land on the island – we do not want to disturb the terns.

Three species of terns visit Hong Kong every summer between May and September: Bridled, Black-naped, and Roseate Terns. During their stay, they breed on the rocky islands in the eastern and southern waters. Terns are elegant and easy to observe. These beautiful visitors arrive Hong Kong every summer and breed on the outlying islands and this is a great opportunity to enjoy a close encounter.

OUTING ITINERARY

9:15am

Meet at Ma Liu Shui Ferry Pier

9:30am

Departure to Shek Ngau Chau via Tolo Harbour. Tern-watching off the islands and enjoying the scenery of the North Eastern waters of Hong Kong New Territories.

12:00 - 2:00pm

Lunch and stroll in Tap Mun. There are a few restaurants and café along the seafront, eg. Uncle Kei and Sun Hon Ki, but they can be crowded with bookings on a Sunday. Pre-order take away is always possible, or simply bring your lunch pack and admire this fishing village by the seaside.

2:30 - 4:00pm

Anchor at a peaceful bay near Hoi Ha Wan Marine Park for a swim/snorkel.

5:30pm

Arrive back at Ma Liu Shui Ferry Pier