FAQs: Island Hopping in Hong Kong

Booking Changes ｜ Yacht Tour｜ Coasteering ｜ Kayking ｜ Snorkelling ｜ Cruise ｜ Island Hopping
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Activity Basics

What is island hopping and how is it different from hiking, coasteering, or snorkelling?

Island hopping means traveling by boat to visit multiple islands in one trip, usually spending a short time on each to enjoy scenery, beaches, or light activities, rather than staying on just one island. It is mainly about the journey between islands and relaxed exploration, not a continuous physical activity from point A to B.​

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Island hopping vs hiking

  • Island hopping: You move between separate islands by boat, and walking is usually short and casual (e.g., exploring a beach or viewpoint) rather than the main objective.​
  • Hiking: You travel on foot along a trail on land, often with elevation gain, where the walk itself is the core activity and workout.

Island hopping vs coasteering

  • Island hopping: Low to moderate physical effort; the focus is on sightseeing and variety of locations, often suitable for most ages and fitness levels.​
  • Coasteering: A high-energy coastal adventure where you scramble over rocks, swim, and sometimes jump into the sea along a rocky shoreline at sea level, usually on one stretch of coast. It is more immersive and physically demanding, more like an obstacle course in the “impact zone” where waves meet the rocks.​

Island hopping vs snorkeling

  • Island hopping: Boat- and land-based; you may or may not go into the water, and the highlight is visiting several islands and viewpoints in one outing.​
  • Snorkelling: Water-based; the main activity is swimming on the surface with mask and snorkel to observe underwater life in a specific bay or reef. Island hopping tours can include snorkelling stops, but snorkelling itself focuses on marine life, not visiting multiple islands.

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Island hopping in general is a relaxed, boat-based activity where you move between different islands, land to explore beaches or viewpoints, and normally do not need to swim at all. Most classic island hopping trips focus on scenery, short walks, photos, and enjoying the atmosphere on each island, and often include a short, easy hike on the island rather than any intense physical challenge.

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However, we do also offer a special Geopark Four Sea Arches Volcano Island Hopping Tour that is much more adventurous. On this tour, you visit the UNESCO Global Geopark sea arches by boat and, on the same day, can take part in coasteering along the rocky coastline and go snorkelling in suitable coves, combining island hopping, coasteering, and snorkelling into one experience.

How difficult are your different Hong Kong Geopark island hopping tours, and which ones are best for beginners versus more adventurous guests?

Difficulty-wise, tours can be seen on a spectrum from easiest to most demanding as below.

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Easiest: Yacht Edition – Four Sea Arches Volcano Sightseeing Tour

This is the most relaxed option, suitable for most ages including children and elderly with basic mobility. The experience is mainly boat‑based sightseeing of the Geopark and sea arches, with comfortable seating, shade, and toilets on board, and only very light walking (if any) on piers.​

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Moderate: Ninepin Group & Flaming Red Coast Island Hopping

The Ninepin Group Volcano Island Hopping Tour and Flaming Red Coast Island Hopping Tour involve short hikes and short walks along natural coastlines after landing, so participants need to be comfortable walking on uneven rocky or dirt paths for a brief period. There is still plenty of time on the boat and pace is relaxed, but good balance and closed shoes are recommended, making these moderately challenging compared with the pure yacht sightseeing tour.​

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Hardest: Four Sea Arches Volcano Island Hopping by Speedboat

The most demanding is the Geopark Four Sea Arches Volcano Island Hopping Tour by Speedboat, which combines high‑speed boat travel with coasteering and snorkeling in the same day. Coasteering means scrambling over intertidal rocks, entering and exiting the sea from the shore, and sometimes swimming in swell, so participants need stronger fitness, water confidence, and good mobility compared with the other island hopping or yacht sightseeing options.

Is the island hopping tour suitable for children/elderly?

Island hopping tours are generally suitable for both children and elderly participants, as long as they have basic mobility and no serious balance or heart problems. Most of the time is spent sitting on the boat, taking photos, and enjoying simple, short walks on relatively easy terrain.​

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Why it is usually family-friendly

  • Routes are designed to be easy: landing spots are chosen so that walking distances are short and there is no steep climbing, usually just a brief, gentle hike or stroll on uneven but manageable ground.​
  • Many island hopping products are explicitly marked “suitable for children and elderly”, with the main activity being sightseeing, interpretation, and photography. Children simply need to be accompanied by an adult.​

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When to be cautious

  • Natural islands often have no formal piers, so there may be a short step from boat to rocky shore and a few minutes of walking on uneven rocks or paths. This can be challenging for people with serious mobility issues or very advanced age (for example, some tours advise caution for those around 70+ without hiking experience).​
  • If a specific island hopping tour adds more active elements (like coasteering or snorkelling), then it may no longer be suitable for very young children, non-swimmers, or frail seniors, and participants usually need better fitness and water confidence.

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Difficulty-wise, tours can be seen on a spectrum from easiest to most demanding, please check the specific product page for details.

Where in Hong Kong do you run island hopping tours?

All of our island hopping and sightseeing tours take place within the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark area, covering both the Sai Kung Volcanic Rock Region and the Northeast New Territories Sedimentary Rock Region.​

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Sai Kung Volcanic Rock Region

This area is famous for its hexagonal volcanic columns, sea arches, and dramatic coastal cliffs formed by ancient supervolcano activity.​
Within this volcanic rock region, the following tours operate:

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Northeast New Territories Sedimentary Rock Region

This region showcases layered sedimentary cliffs, red coastal formations, and unique headlands shaped by folding and erosion.​
Within this sedimentary rock region, the following island hopping tours operate:

How long is the island hopping tour from meet-up to finish?

Our Hong Kong island hopping tours last 2–6 hours from meet-up to finish, depending on which itinerary you choose, and exact timing is always shown on each product page—so please double‑check the specific tour page before booking.​

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Sai Kung Volcanic Rock Region

This area is famous for its hexagonal volcanic columns, sea arches, and dramatic coastal cliffs formed by ancient supervolcano activity.​

  • Geopark Four Sea Arches Volcano Sightseeing Tour (Yacht Edition) – about 4 hours from check‑in to return (half‑day cruise).​
  • Sai Kung Beach Snorkelling and Island Hopping Tour Experience by Yacht – about 6 hours from meet‑up to finish (e.g. 10:30–16:30).​
  • Geopark Ninepin Group Volcano Island Hopping Tour – about 2.5 hours from check‑in to end of trip.​
  • Geopark Four Sea Arches Volcano Island Hopping Tour (speedboat & adventure style) – typically around 6 hours including speedboat transfers, coasteering, snorkelling and island time (please refer to the product page for the exact session time).​

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Northeast New Territories Sedimentary Rock Region

This region showcases layered sedimentary cliffs, red coastal formations, and unique headlands shaped by folding and erosion.​

  • Geopark Chicken, Duck and Fairy Coast Island Hopping Tour – about 2 hours in total.​
  • Geopark Flaming Red Coast Island Hopping Tour – about 2.5 hours from start to finish.​

For the most up‑to‑date timetable (exact start and end times, plus seasonal schedules), always check the individual product page of the tour you are interested in before confirming your booking.​

Safety & Fitness

Is island hopping safe?

Island hopping is generally safe, as long as tours run in suitable weather and guests follow the safety briefings and guide instructions.

Splitdyboat is one of the tour operators that strictly follows safety‑first guidelines, including weather‑dependent operations.

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Splitdyboat uses legally licensed boats and speedboats that comply with Marine Department regulations, provide life jackets and insurance, and operate under clear safety guidelines and weather‑dependent policies to minimise risk during Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark island hopping tours.

Are there any age, weight, or health restrictions for island hopping tours?

Yes, there are some basic age and health considerations, but most healthy guests can join island hopping tours. Please check the specific product content page for details.

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For Splitdyboat tours, children are generally welcome and many products are marked “suitable for all ages”, but children under about 13 must be accompanied by an adult, and some specific adventure activities (like coasteering) set higher minimum ages such as 9+.​

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For safety reasons, Splitdyboat does not allow guests who are pregnant, have heart disease, serious medical conditions, very poor general health, or recent sports injuries (especially to the knee, ankle, neck, or back) to join any water‑based or higher‑risk activities, and such guests should seek medical advice and choose more suitable low‑risk options instead.

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If you are not sure where to start and what to join, Our Yacht Edition Geopark Four Sea Arches Volcano Sightseeing Tour is a relaxed cruise that is suitable for all ages, including young children and elderly guests who want a comfortable way to enjoy the Geopark’s scenery from a spacious, stable yacht.

Equipment & Clothing

What should I wear/bring for an island hopping tour?

Island hopping is mostly relaxed, but you will be outdoors under the sun and walking on natural terrain depending on the tour you choose, so clothing and gear matter, always check the specific tour product page you booked, as details (like meeting point, dress code, and what’s included) can vary slightly between itineraries.

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Clothing

  • Light, breathable clothing (T‑shirt, quick‑dry shorts/leggings) suitable for warm, humid weather.​
  • Swimwear underneath or packed, especially for tours that include beach time or snorkeling (e.g. Sai Kung Beach Snorkelling and Island Hopping Tour).​
  • Closed‑toe hiking shoes or trainers with good grip for rocky shorelines (especially Ninepin Group, Flaming Red Coast, Chicken/Duck/Fairy Coast).​
  • Optional water shoes / aqua shoes if you expect to step in shallow water or on wet rocks.​

while in autumn and winter a windbreaker or extra warm layers are important because it can feel much cooler and windier out on the boat than on land.

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Essentials to bring

  • Water and a reusable bottle to stay hydrated.​
  • Sun protection: reef‑safe sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and light long‑sleeve layer.​
  • Small backpack or waterproof dry bag for your things.​
  • Towel and a spare change of clothes for after swimming/snorkeling, if included in your tour.​

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Extra items for more active itineraries

For more adventurous island hopping (e.g. tours that include coasteering or snorkeling):

  • Aqua shoes with strong grip, plus gloves for scrambling on rocks if suggested.​
  • Waterproof phone case and/or dry bag to protect electronics.​
  • Any personal medication and a small basic first‑aid kit if you have specific needs.

What equipment do you provide for island hopping tour?

For the most accurate and up‑to‑date list of what is included, please always check the exact product page of the island hopping tour you book, as equipment and inclusions can differ between sightseeing, snorkelling, and adventure‑style itineraries.​

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In general, island hopping tours typically include the boat transfer, a tour guide with commentary, and basic safety equipment such as life jackets for all guests.

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For water‑based products like the Sai Kung Beach Snorkelling and Island Hopping Tour Experience by Yacht, necessary snorkelling gear (mask, sometimes fins), life jackets, and coaching/guided sessions in the water are provided, along with drinks and simple food on board.

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More adventurous itineraries such as the Geopark Four Sea Arches Volcano Island Hopping Tour may also provide specialised safety gear for coasteering and water entry, while asking guests to bring personal items like aqua shoes and gloves themselves

Booking & Availability

Do island hopping tours run every day?

Yes, for yacht tours like our Yacht Edition Geopark Four Sea Arches Volcano Sightseeing Tour, we operate daily year‑round, weather permitting, and final confirmation normally comes about 1 day before departure via email.​

Other island hopping tours are seasonal because safe landings by speedboat depend a lot on wind, wave and swell conditions, especially in the cooler months when northeasterly winds are stronger. Most islands in Hong Kong are natural with little or no pier facilities, so if waves are too rough it may not be possible to land safely on the rocks or beaches, and departures or landing plans may need to be changed or cancelled for safety reasons.

What's the minimum group size for island hopping tours?

Island Hopping Tours by Yacht

No minimum—even solo travelers (1 person) are welcome! We run shared yacht tours daily with flexible capacity, weather permitting.

Group Options (Yacht)

  • Small groups (1–19): Join our regular shared yacht tours—no minimum required.
  • Medium groups (20–50): Private yacht charters available—perfect for events and companies.
  • Large groups (50+): Special arrangements required, as each yacht accommodates around 50 pax.

Contact us via WhatsApp or the booking page for private yacht quotes. All tours weather permitting!

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Island Hopping Tours by Speedboat

No minimum here either—solo travelers and small groups are welcome to join shared speedboat departures when available.

Group Options (Speedboat)

  • Small groups (1–9): Join our regular shared speedboat tours (subject to schedule and availability).
  • Medium groups (10–20): One private speedboat, as each boat accommodates around 10–20 guests depending on configuration.
  • Large groups (20+): We arrange multiple speedboats and can coordinate timings so everyone enjoys the same route and commentary.

For speedboat private charters or larger group planning, contact us via WhatsApp or the booking page for a customised quote. All tours are weather permitting for safety.

Can I book a private island hopping tour?

Yes, you can book a private island hopping tour.

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For Island Hopping Tours by yacht, private charters are available from 20 guests and above to keep the whole boat and pricing cost‑effective for your group. If you have fewer than 20 people, you are still welcome to book a private yacht by paying the equivalent of the 20‑pax minimum.

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For Island Hopping Tours by speedboat, private charters are available from 10 guests and above, as each speedboat is designed for roughly 10–20 guests. Similarly, smaller groups can enjoy a fully private speedboat by paying up to the 10‑pax minimum requirement.

Meeting Point & Check-In

Where is the meeting point / departure pier for your island hopping tours?

Our island hopping tours depart from different piers in the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark, so please always check the exact product page of your chosen tour for the confirmed meeting point and time.​

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Sai Kung Volcanic Rock Region

This area is famous for its hexagonal volcanic columns, sea arches, and dramatic coastal cliffs formed by ancient supervolcano activity.
Tours in this region usually depart from the Sai Kung town area, for example:

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Northeast New Territories Sedimentary Rock Region

This region showcases layered sedimentary cliffs, red coastal formations, and unique headlands shaped by folding and erosion.​
Tours here use other New Territories piers as starting points:

For the most accurate meeting location (Google Map link, transport tips, and any seasonal changes), always refer to the individual tour product page before your departure.

When should I arrive for check-in?

30 minutes early—late arrivals may forfeit spots (no refunds). Check-in via phone number or name at the meeting point.

Example: For our Yacht Island Hopping & Snorkelling Tour (10:30am-4:30pm session), arrive by 10:00am at Sai Kung Public School.

Exact time + GPS map included in our product page. Contact us immediately if delayed.

What if I'm running late to the island hopping departure?

Contact WhatsApp (+852 9229 5167) or the Guide immediately.

<15 min late = hold boat if possible;

>15 min = no-show policy applies.

Cancellation & Changes

Can I change my island hopping tour date?

Yes, one free reschedule if 3+ days before departure. Contact via My Orders with booking ID.

What’s the weather cancellation policy for island hopping?

Full refund if we cancel due to unsafe weather.

We cancel tours for unsafe waves, No. 3 typhoon signal or higher, typhoons, or extreme conditions like Amber/Red/Black rainstorm warnings—full refund guaranteed.

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Weather Monitoring

  • HK Observatory + Windy.com wind/wave forecasts.
  • Captain makes final call on-site for safety.

Contact WhatsApp if conditions change. Safety first!

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Booking Changes ｜ Yacht Tour｜ Coasteering ｜ Kayking ｜ Snorkelling ｜ Cruise ｜ Island Hopping