hong kong yacht registry

• Sample Entry
• Shipowner Eligibility
• Company Formation
• Registration & Documentation
• Bareboat Charter Registration
• Vessel Eligibility and Survey Requirements
• IMO Conventions

About the Flag

Hong Kong is a thriving port in Eastern Asia bordering the South China Sea and China. After 156 years of separation under British rule, Hong Kong was reunited with China on 1 July 1997. With the resumption of the exercise of sovereignty over Hong Kong, China has implemented the principle of 'one country, two systems' and fulfilled the promises of 'a high degree of autonomy' and 'Hong Kong people administering Hong Kong'. Under the Basic Law, the mini-constitution for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Central People's Government has granted Hong Kong a high degree of autonomy - a situation that is unparalleled anywhere else in the world. In addition to institutionalizing the 'high degree of autonomy', the Basic Law delineates the rights and obligations of the residents of Hong Kong and clearly prescribes the social, economic and political systems which are different from those of the Mainland China. It preserves for Hong Kong people their usual way of life; Hong Kong people continue to enjoy all their rights as before; the free and open economic system is maintained; a smooth democratic development is assured; and Hong Kong continues to enjoy a stable and peaceful society.

Hong Kong is one of the freest and most vibrant economies in the world. Free enterprise and free trade; prudent financial management and low taxation; the rule of law; an executive-led government; and an efficient civil service have all been part of Hong Kong's tradition. All these factors underlie Hong Kong's success and have been guaranteed in the Basic Law.

The autonomy of the Hong Kong Shipping Register is well enshrined in the Basic Law. It provides the constitutional rights and legal basis for Hong Kong to continue to maintain a shipping register and to issue related certificates under its own legislation under the name "Hong Kong, China." The Merchant Shipping (Registration) Ordinance governs vessel registration. The register is run by the Marine Department of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government and is separate from the   Chinese Register . One unique feature of the Hong Kong Register is the requirement to hoist two flags at the stern of a Hong Kong ship, that is, the national flag of the People's Republic of China and the regional flag of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

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OFFICIAL GUIDE TO SHIP & YACHT REGISTRIES

Shipowner Eligibility 

In order for a ship to be registered in Hong Kong, it must be majority owned by one or more "qualified" persons, or operated under a demise charter by a corporation that is a "qualified person." A "qualified person" is: A resident of Hong Kong holding a valid Hong Kong identity card; A body corporate incorporated in Hong Kong; or An overseas company registered in Hong Kong under the Companies Ordinance, Part XI.

About the Flag

Hong Kong is a thriving port in Eastern Asia bordering the South China Sea and China. After 156 years of separation under British rule, Hong Kong was reunited with China on 1 July 1997. With the resumption of the exercise of sovereignty over Hong Kong, China has implemented the principle of 'one country, two systems' and fulfilled the promises of 'a high degree of autonomy' and 'Hong Kong people administering Hong Kong'. Under the Basic Law, the mini-constitution for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Central People's Government has granted Hong Kong a high degree of autonomy - a situation that is unparalleled anywhere else in the world. In addition to institutionalizing the 'high degree of autonomy', the Basic Law delineates the rights and obligations of the residents of Hong Kong and clearly prescribes the social, economic and political systems which are different from those of the Mainland China. It preserves for Hong Kong people their usual way of life; Hong Kong people continue to enjoy all their rights as before; the free and open economic system is maintained; a smooth democratic development is assured; and Hong Kong continues to enjoy a stable and peaceful society. Hong Kong is one of the freest and most vibrant economies in the world. Free enterprise and free trade; prudent financial management and low taxation; the rule of law; an executive-led government; and an efficient civil service have all been part of Hong Kong's tradition. All these factors underlie Hong Kong's success and have been guaranteed in the Basic Law. The autonomy of the Hong Kong Shipping Register is well enshrined in the Basic Law. It provides the constitutional rights and legal basis for Hong Kong to continue to maintain a shipping register and to issue related certificates under its own legislation under the name "Hong Kong, China." The Merchant Shipping (Registration) Ordinance governs vessel registration. The register is run by the Marine Department of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government and is separate from the Chinese Register. One unique feature of the Hong Kong Register is the requirement to hoist two flags at the stern of a Hong Kong ship, that is, the national flag of the People's Republic of China and the regional flag of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. A number of measures have been implemented since 1 April 1999 to make the Hong Kong Register even more competitive, user friendly and efficient. These measures are aimed to further improve the Register's quality at a reduced cost. The measures include reduction of fees; streamlining of procedures for ship registration, seafarers' licensing and employment and discharge of seafarers; and 365 days plus 24 hours services. In addition, a flag-state quality control (FSQC) system has been introduced to ensure highest safety standards and full compliance with international conventions by all Hong Kong registered ships in a cost-effective manner. The proper flags to be flown on a Hong Kong registered ship are the national flag of the People's Republic of China directly above the regional flag of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

Company Formation

Corporate formation in Hong Kong is governed by the provisions of the Companies Ordinance, Cap. 32 of the Laws of Hong Kong. To incorporate a limited company, the Memorandum and Articles of Association must be signed by a subscriber in the presence of a witness and it must be filed with the Registrar of Companies. There should be at least one subscriber taking up at least one share. In addition, a Statement of Compliance signed by a subscriber, or by a person named in the Articles of Association as a Director or Secretary of the company, must also be submitted to the Registrar of Companies. To form a new company limited by shares normally takes six working days. Ready-made companies are available for purchase from professional firms. Companies may be incorporated with or without limited liability. A limited company can be limited by shares or guarantee. A registered office in Hong Kong is required. Directors need not be Hong Kong residents but the secretary must ordinarily reside in Hong Kong or the corporate secretary must have his/her registered office or place of business in Hong Kong. The secretary may be one of the directors, except that if the company has only one director, the secretary cannot be the sole director or a body corporate the sole director of which is the sole director of the company. Annual returns must be submitted to the Registrar of Companies and, except for private companies, financial statements, which must be audited, should be submitted together with the annual returns. One general meeting must be held annually as the annual general meeting of the company in addition to other extraordinary general meetings of shareholders. The new Companies Ordinance (Chapter 622 of the Laws of Hong Kong) commenced operation on 3 March 2014. Please visit the thematic section New Companies Ordinance on the Companies Registry website for more details. Email enquiries can be directed to [email protected] .

Income derived from the international operation of Hong Kong registered ships are exempt from profits tax. This exemption does not apply to ships trading exclusively within Hong Kong waters or between Hong Kong and other Pearl River delta ports. An agreement between Hong Kong and the United States has been enacted into the Double Taxation Relief (Income from Shipping Operations (United States of America) Order), Cap.112. By this agreement, income derived from international operation of ship by individuals who are residents of Hong Kong and corporations which are incorporated in Hong Kong or controlled or managed in Hong Kong is exempted from income tax by the Government of the United States and vice-versa. To avoid double taxation on income between the Mainland China and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the two Sides have signed a memorandum of understanding on double taxation arrangement. Revenue and profits from the operation of ships carried on by an enterprise of One Side on the Other Side is exempt from tax, which, in the case of the Mainland China, includes Business Tax. Revenue and profits derived from the participation in a pool, a joint business or an international operating agency is also exempt from tax. In addition, double taxation relief agreements have been concluded with Belgium, China, Denmark, Norway, New Zealand, Netherlands, Singapore, Republic of Korea, Sri Lanka, United States, United Kingdom and Germany. Similar arrangements are currently under negotiation with several other major trading partners.

Registration and Documentation

Formal application must be made to the Registrar of Ships. Full registration should be applied for if all the required documents can be presented at the time of registration. For full registration, the following original documents should be submitted: • Application Form (Form RS/ A1 (Rev)) • Declaration of entitlement to own a ship registered in Hong Kong • Corporate authorisation for signatories of application and declaration (Form of Authority) • Builder's Certificate or Bill of Sale in favour of the owner as appropriate • Certificate of Survey • Certificate or evidence of deletion from previous registry (for change of flag) • Certificate of Incorporation or Registration in Hong Kong of owner or owner's Hong Kong Identity Card • Certificate or declaration of marking of a ship (Form RS/S1) • Certified true copy of Certificate of Incorporation and Memorandum of Association of the representative person appointed in relation to the ship • Confirmation of completion of statutory surveys In some cases, an original of the ship's title document (e.g. a builder's certificate or a bill of sale) cannot be produced to the Registrar of Ships at the time of registration because the closing meeting takes place outside Hong Kong and it is not convenient to lodge this document with an overseas Economic and Trade Office of the Government of the Hong Kong SAR. Then, the new owners of the ship should go for provisional registration. Save for the ship's title document (which should be submitted in the form of a facsimile copy of the original accompanied by a Confirmation by Mortgagee if the ship is to be mortgaged), the same requirements for the full registration of a ship will apply to the provisional registration of the ship. Save in the case of a Certificate of Registry relating to a ship under bareboat charter registration in Hong Kong, a Certificate of Registry has no expiry date. Upon a change of ownership of a ship, a new Certificate of Registry of the ship under her new name (if there is a name change) in the name of the new owners will be issued by the Registrar of Ships and this document replaces the previous Certificate of Registry of the ship which should be surrendered to the Shipping Registry for cancellation. A Certificate of Provisional Registry is valid for one month (unless extended subject to the entire discretion of the Registrar of Ships).

Bareboat Charter Registration

A ship on demise charter to a qualified person can be on full or provisional registration. However, no dual registration is allowed. The registration is valid for the period of the demise charter. Any change to the owner or demise charterer should be reported to the Registrar of Ships and when the new demise charterer is a qualified person, the ship can be re-registered. The following forms should be submitted in their original to the Registrar: • Application Form (Form RS/A1 (Rev)) • Declaration of entitlement to register a ship in Hong Kong by demise charterer • Corporation authorisation of owner and charterer for signatories of application and declaration forms (Form of Authority) • Consent of entitlement to register a ship in Hong Kong in the name of the demise charterer • Builder's Certificate or Bill of Sale in favour of the owner • Certificate of Survey • Certificate or evidence of deletion from foreign registry (for change of flag) • Certified true copy of Certificate of Incorporation of owner, where owner is a body corporate • Certified true copy of the Certificate of Incorporation or Registration of demise charterer • Certificate or declaration of marking of a ship (Form RS/S1) • Certified true copy of the demise charterparty • Certified true copy of the Certificate of Incorporation and Memorandum of Association of the representative person appointed in relation to the ship.

Vessel and Yacht Eligibility & Survey Requirements

There are no restrictions on the age or tonnage of a ship that may be registered. However, a ship registration may be declined if the Director of Marine considers that the ship has high safety or pollution risks. For cargo ships, all surveys and the issue of certificates are delegated to the following authorized classification societies: • American Bureau of Shipping • Bureau Veritas • China Classification Society • DNV • Lloyd's Register of Shipping • Korean Register of Shipping (KR) • Nippon Kaiji Kyokai • Registro Italiano Navale For cargo ships joining the Hong Kong Shipping Register, the following drawings/plans/documents are required to be submitted for reference: • General arrangement of ships • Fire control plan • Structural fire protection arrangements and construction • Safety equipment arrangement • Load line particulars relating to the conditions of assignment, including stability information and grain loading documents, if appropriate • Prevention of oil pollution arrangement • Safety radio installation arrangement • Crew accommodation arrangement The Director of Marine maintains the prerogative to issue exemptions to Hong Kong registered ships from the requirements of the Hong Kong Merchant Shipping (Safety) Regulations and the International Conventions, if required. The subsequent renewal of these exemption certificates may tie in with the renewal of the trading certificates issued by the authorised classification societies. The Director need not be consulted by the authorised classification societies on the renewal of such exemption certificates unless the conditions stated by the Director in the original issue cannot be fulfilled. The Director of Marine remains the authority to issue Minimum Safe Manning Certificates and the Civil Liability Certificates. The Hong Kong Shipping Register has implemented a unique Flag State Quality Control (FSQC) System to maintain the quality of cargo ships in the Register. Ships or management companies whose quality is found to be declining will be inspected/audited by Hong Kong SAR Government surveyors at no cost to shipowners. Any ship that is detained for serious deficiencies under Port State control inspections will be charged for any inspection/ audit to the ship or the management company which the Hong Kong Marine Department may consequently conduct. For survey requirements of passenger ships, the Registrar of Ships should be consulted.

There are no nationality or residence requirements for the officers or crews of Hong Kong registered ships. Minimum manning scales for Hong Kong registered ships are given in the Hong Kong Merchant Shipping Information Notes - http://www.mardep.gov.hk/en/msnote/msin.html. STCW 95 Certificates of Competency issued by many countries will be recognized for the issue of full term Hong Kong Licences under STCW 95 provided that an undertaking has been made with the country concerned ( http://www.mardep.gov.hk/en/msnotice/stcw_hke.html, for the list of countries), with a period of validity up to the expiry date of the original certificate being recognized. As an interim arrangement prior to the completion of assessment by the Validation Panel, STCW 95 Certificates of Competency issued by certain countries will be accepted for the issue of short term Hong Kong Licence with a period of validity of 12 months, subject to an undertaking which has been made with the country concerned. The list of countries recognized for the issue of short term HK License may vary from time to time. Enquiry can be made to Seafarers' Certification Section for updated information.

The registration of a ship mortgage must be in a specified form (Form RS/M1) and be submitted to the Shipping Registry. It is a statutory mortgage and all the terms in relation to the security are separately recorded in a deed of covenants or other instrument. These instruments need not be filed with the mortgage at the Shipping Registry, but should in appropriate cases be filed at the Companies Registry. There are no nationality requirements for mortgagees, nor are they required to be "qualified persons." Any individual, joint mortgagees, or bodies corporate (domestic or foreign) may be entered into the Shipping Register as mortgagees. Notice of any trust will not be noted in the Register. A mortgage is executed under seal and witnessed. Where two or more mortgages are registered with HKSR in respect of the same vessel, priority will be given in accordance with the order of registration of the mortgages irrespective of the date upon which they were made or executed. The ship mortgage together with other instruments containing charges to secure the obligations of the mortgagor should be filed at the Companies Registry if the mortgagor is a company incorporated in Hong Kong or an overseas company which has a place of business in Hong Kong. Registration process with company registry should generally be effected within five weeks of creation of the charge, otherwise the security will be void against the liquidator and any creditor of the company. To discharge a ship mortgage, a memorandum of discharge in specified form should be executed by each mortgagee and be lodged with the Registrar of Ships. In addition, either the mortgagor or the mortgagee may file a memorandum of satisfaction with the Companies Registry to register the discharge. Under Section 47 of the Merchant Shipping (Registration) Ordinance, a mortgagee shall have absolute power to dispose of the vessel and to give effectual receipts in respect of the disposal, provided that if the person is a subsequent mortgagee, he shall not, except under the order of a court, dispose of the ship without the consent of every prior mortgagee. Further, a mortgagee who wants to dispose of the vessel shall not do so unless he has first given notice in writing to the Registrar of Ships of his intention to dispose of the vessel. However, the disposal of a vessel will not be invalidated because of the failure to notify the Registrar.

http://www.mardep.gov.hk/en/pub_services/fees.html

Hong Kong Shipping Registry Registrar of Ships Marine Department 3/F, Harbour Building 38 Pier Road Hong Kong Tel: (852) 2852 4387 Fax: (852) 2541 8842 Email: [email protected] Website: www.mardep.gov.hk Survey Information and Certificates Senior Surveyor Cargo Ships Safety Section Marine Department 24/F, Harbour Building Tel: (852) 2852 4510 Fax: (852) 2545 0556 or (852) 2544 9241 Certification and Licensing Senior Surveyor - Seafarers' Certification Section Marine Department 3/F Harbour Building Tel: (852) 2852 4368 Fax: (852) 2541 6754 Email: [email protected] Mercantile Marine Office Marine Department 3/F Harbour Building Tel: (852) 2852 3063 Fax: (852) 2545 4669 Email: [email protected] Companies Registry Queensway Government Offices 66 Queensway Hong Kong Website: http://www.cr.gov.hk/en/home/index.htm In addition to the Hong Kong office, registration services (including supply of forms, receipt and transmission of documents, are also available at various overseas Economic and Trade Offices of the Government of HKSAR.

Stockholm Agreement 96

Imo convention 48, * imo amendments 91 , * imo amendments 93, solas convention 74, solas protocol 78, solas protocol 88, load lines convention 66, load lines protocol 88, tonnage convention 69, colreg  convention 72, csc convention 72, csc amendments 93, sfv protocol 93, stcw  convention 78, stcw-f convention 95, sar  convention 79, stp agreement 71, stp protocol 73, imso convention 76, inmarsat oa 76, inmarsat amendments 94, inmarsat amendments 98, imso amendments 2006, imso amendments 2008, facilitation convention 65, marpol 73/78 (annex i/ii), marpol 73/78 (annex iv), marpol 73/78 (annex v), marpol protocol 97 (annex vi), london convention 72, london convention protocol 96, intervention convention 69, intervention protocol 73, clc convention 69, clc protocol 76, clc protocol 92, fund convention 71, fund protocol 92, fund protocol 2003, nuclear convention 71, marpol 73/78 (annex iii), pal protocol 76, pal protocol 90, pal protocol 02, llmc convention 76, llmc protocol 96, sua convention 2005, sua protocol 2005, salvage convention 89, oprc  convention 90, hns convention 96, oprc/hns 2000, bunkers convention 01, anti fouling 01, ballastwater 2004, nairobi wrc 2007, hong kong convention, hns prot 2010, cape town agreement 2012, sua convention 88, sua protocol 88, imo conventions.

Status of Conventions Hong Kong IMO Convention 48 x SOLAS Convention 74 x SOLAS Protocol 78 x SOLAS Protocol 88 x SOLAS Agreement 96 LOAD LINES Convention 66 x LOAD LINES Protocol 88 x TONNAGE Convention 69 x COLREG Convention 72 x CSC Convention 72 x CSC amendments 93 SFV Protocol 93 Cape Town Agreement 2012 STCW Convention 78 x STCW-F Convention 95 SAR Convention 79 x STP Agreement 71 x Space STP Protocol 73 x IMSO Convention 76 x INMARSAT OA 76 IMSO amendments 2006 IMSO amendments 2008 FACILITATION Convention 65 x MARPOL 73/78 (Annex I/II) x MARPOL 73/78 (Annex III) x MARPOL 73/78 (Annex IV) x MARPOL 73/78 (Annex V) x MARPOL Protocol 97 (Annex VI) x London Convention 72 x London Convention Protocol 96 x INTERVENTION Convention 69 x INTERVENTION Protocol 73 x CLC Convention 69 d CLC Protocol 76 d CLC Protocol 92 x FUND Protocol 76 d FUND Protocol 92 x FUND Protocol 2003 NUCLEAR Convention 71 PAL Convention 74 x PAL Protocol 76 x PAL Protocol 90 PAL Protocol 02 LLMC Convention 76 x LLMC Protocol 96 x SUA Convention 88 x SUA Protocol 88 x SUA Convention 2005 SUA Protocol 2005 SALVAGE Convention 89 x OPRC Convention 90 x HNS Convention 96 HNS PROT 2010 OPRC/HNS 2000 BUNKERS CONVENTION 01 x ANTI FOULING 2001 x BALLASTWATER 2004 x NAIROBI WRC 2007 HONG KONG CONVENTION x: Accession/ratification d: Denunciation

• Hong Kong Shipping Registry

With more than 2 600 ships that aggregate over 130 million gross tons (GT), the Hong Kong Shipping Register (HKSR) is the fourth largest register in the world in terms of gross tonnage. It is also renowned for the good quality of Hong Kong registered-ships. HKSR is constantly included in the white list of the Paris MoU, the Tokyo MoU and the USCG Qualship 21.

The Register is operated by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China, through the Marine Department which has over 150 years of experience in ship registration, inspection and survey. A Hong Kong registered ship shall comply with international standards including safety and protection of marine environment.

Benefits of registering your ship with HKSR:

• A world-class shipping register with a reputation for good quality and excellent service
• A well-established quality assurance system and close working relationship with our owners and companies for improving ships’ quality
• Readily available technical support and advice by highly qualified and responsive professional staff
• Simple registration process supported with year-round service
• One of the lowest tax regimes in the world
• Shipping incentives tax regime that no profits tax levied on international trade
• Double taxation relief arrangement with major trading partners
• No nationality restrictions on manning
• A clean, efficient and business friendly civil service
• Excellent ship management, financial, communication, legal and other support facilities
• An independent, well-established common law system
• Gateway to the Mainland of China

Regional Desk (Singapore) As an overseas outreach arm of Hong Kong Shipping Registry (HKSR) in the world’s major sea ports, Regional Desk of HKSR was set up in Singapore in mid-2020 and started serving the owners of Hong Kong-registered ships, residing in Singapore and the nearby south-east Asian cities.

Main countries under purview:

Main Tasks:

• Providing support to local shipowners
• Flag quality controls
• Ship registration
• Enhancing the working relationship with maritime authorities in the region
• Promoting Hong Kong maritime services

Contact: Tel (Direct): 65-6330 9339 Email: [email protected]

• Useful Links

Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Singapore

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Fax: +65 6339 2112

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Hong Kong Yacht Registration Summary

Hong Kong yacht registration summary is a free information resource designed to inform the boating public about vessel registry requirements, recording methods, and title search guidelines for the China Administrative Region of Hong Kong. The data is maintained as an open wiki forum where readers are encouraged to participate by sharing knowledge and experiences with this particular country. Simply click on the "Wiki-Share" link to contribute further details or suggest a revision.

This information is subject to change and should be confirmed with the respective agency.

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Boat ownership and registration in Hong Kong

Hong Kong hosts one of the most spectacular harbors in the entire world, topped with a long coastline and a myriad of charming islands, and yacht clubs where boats can moor, and people can enjoy the views and the blue, clear waters of Hong Kong during long and hot summer days. Those who decide to have their own pleasure boat must register and insure their vessel before being able to enjoy it fully. Here, the team at Kwiksure presents a short guide to boat ownership and registration in Hong Kong. 

Types of private leisure vessels in Hong Kong

Pleasure boats (a Class IV vessel), which are the type of boats we are discussing in this article, come in three categories under the local licensing system, and they are as follows: auxiliary powered yacht, a cruiser, and an open cruiser, which resemble a lot of Hong Konger’s favorite ‘junk boats’. 

Upon purchase, all of these private leisure boats must be licensed to use and insured for third-party risks of not less than HK$5,000,000 to lawfully cruise on Hong Kong waters. 

Boat registration in Hong Kong

All vessels must be registered with the Hong Kong Marine Department. Those who want their pleasure boats licensed must fill in an MD 515 form , and pay the appropriate fee to the Hong Kong Marine Department, which is calculated based on the certificate’s grade linked to the boat's length, engine type (diesel, petrol, and outboard), and engine power. Such ownership/operating license is issued on a yearly basis. 

The last step of getting your boat registered is to paint or affix the allocated Certificate of Ownership number on each side of your vessel, as close to amidships as possible. After that, the only step needed to be water-ready is to obtain at least the minimum required third-party boat insurance . 

Pleasure boat insurance 

On the water, first and foremost, the safety of you and other people is the most important. Whether you are mooring a luxury yacht in a Dubai marina, or a small shell in Sai Kung, you should be aware that, like being on the road, similar dangers lurk on the water. The Hong Kong government knows this too, and that’s why boat insurance is required by law here. Cruising without proper insurance coverage may result in your license being revoked, or you having to pay a monetary fine set up by the Marine Department.   

Pleasure boat insurance usually includes protection against liability towards third-parties in the event of a collision or accident, and boat owners often also include insurance for property damage to the boat or yacht. Whether you are buying a new vessel, or a local, pre-owned boat, third-party insurance should start the moment you take ownership over the boat. 

Click here for price and plan comparisons for boat insurance, or contact Kwiksure’s advisors for an impartial and non-binding chat from the city’s top motor insurance brokerage!   

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You may check real-time tide information of the 14 tide stations distributed over Hong Kong waters.

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Licensing a Pleasure Vessel

Before operating your pleasure vessel (Class IV vessel), you have to license your vessel and make sure it is in charge by a certified pleasure vessel operator.  Besides, you have to acquire third party risk insurance for the boat.

Pleasure Vessel & Operator Licensing

All pleasure vessels and their operators must be licensed and certified. You can download the application form and browse points to note for operating your pleasure vessel from here.

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You can find the license fees for pleasure vessels and their operators from here.

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Requirements to Register a Ship in Hong Kong

What’s in this article, who regulates the registration of ships, application for registration, refusal of registration, registrable ships, ship names regulations, rules as to ship names, the license of pleasure vessels in hong kong, penalty for non-compliance.

• Requirements to Register a Ship in Hong Kong  FAQs

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The autonomy of the Hong Kong shipping register is enshrined in the Basic Law. It provides the constitutional right and legal basis for Hong Kong to continue to maintain a Shipping Register and to issue related certificates under its legislation under the name ”Hong Kong, China. The register is run by the Marine Department of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government and is separate from the Chinese Register.

The Merchant Shipping (Registration) Ordinance governs vessel registration. One unique feature of the Hong Kong Register is the requirement to hoist two flags at the stern of a Hong Kong ship. One flag is for the nation of the Peoples’ Republic of China, and the other is the regional flag of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

An application for registration of a ship shall be made by the person or persons applying to be registered as the owner, as follows-

• By one or more persons or by an agent, in the case of individual ownership or charterer, or
• By an authorized individual in the case of a corporate.

The application for registration of a ship shall be made by both the demise charterer and the owner.

The authority of an agent acting on behalf of an owner or demise charterer shall be testified in writing. If the agent is acting on behalf of a corporate not possessing a common seal, then the agent shall include a declaration that the body concerned does not possess a common seal. He/she shall also include written consent to be an agent.

If the requirements are not made as per the laws of registering a ship, the Registrar may serve the applicant or the agent with a notice informing him/her of such information necessary for determining whether the ship is registrable. Upon lack of clarification within 30 days since the date of the notice, the Registrar may refuse registration.

A ship that has met the requirements for registration may still not be registered if:

• The ship’s condition for safety and risk of pollution are not met, or
• It does not meet the safety health and welfare of persons employed or engaged in any capacity onboard the ship
• The nature of the use of the ship is deemed inappropriate to Hong Kong or Hong Kong’s laws
• There is difficulty in providing supervision and control of that ship or that class/type of chip in Hong Kong.

Upon successful registration, the Registrar shall grant a certificate of registry, in the specified form, containing the particulars relating to the ship registered.

A ship is registered if –

• A majority interest in the ship is owned by one or more qualified persons; or
• The ship is operated under a demise charter by a body corporate being a qualified person (whether or not a majority interest in the ship is owned by one or more qualifies persons).

A registered ship ceases to be registrable if –

• A majority of interest in the ship ceases to be owned by one or more qualified persons;
• The ship or any share in or part of the ship is transferred or transmitted; or
• The rights of the demise charterer under the demise charter are assigned under a sub-demise charter;
• The ship is taken in war or hostilities, as a result of which the owner or demise charterer has lost control over the operation of the ship;
• The ship is broken up, or is an actual or constructive total loss such that it is no longer capable of being used in navigation;
• The ship at the time of registration remains registered in a place outside Hong Kong;
• The ship subsequently becomes registered in a place outside Hong Kong; or
• A representative person ceases to be appointed in relation to the ship.

The Chief Executive in Council may make regulations-

• Requiring the name by which it is proposed to register a ship to be approved by the Registrar before the name is marked on the ship or entered in the register;
• Empowering the Registrar to reserve a name for a ship;
• Is already registered or reserved, or is in the option of the Registrar so similar as to be likely deceiving; or
• Is in the opinion of the Registrar undesirable for registration in Hong Kong.
• A person shall not describe a registered ship by any name other than that by which the ship is for the time being registered.
• The owner or demise charterer of a registered ship shall not change the name of the ship, or cause or permit any such change, without the previous written permission of the Registrar.
• An application for permission of the Registrar shall be in writing.
• The Registrar shall enter the ship’s new name in the register; and
• The owner or demise charterer shall cause the new name to be marked on the ship’s bows and stern
• The ship’s name shall not be changed without the consent of the Registrar; if that happens, the Registrar shall direct that the ship’s name be altered into the previous name.

A pleasure vessel must be registered and insured. The boat owner first applies for the Operating License for the vessel and fills an application form. He/she then submits the form to the Marine Department along with the following documents:

• Letter of approval from the Director of Marine, where applicable;
• The identity card/certificate of incorporation of the owner of the vessel in original;
• Proof of the owner’s name and address;
• Certificate or document proving the emission level of the diesel engine, where applicable
• Copy of the vessel’s third-party risk insurance policy;
• Photographs of the vessel; and
• License fee.

If the owner is not making the application in person, other documents will be required.

• A person who contravenes the law that directs on appropriate naming of a ship commits an offense and shall be liable to a fine of $5,000.
• An owner or demise charterer who contravenes the rules of ship names commits an offense and shall be liable to a fine of $5,000.
• The Director may detain the ship that contravenes the above requirements.

A ship may be registered on a provisional basis according to the application requirements of provisional registration, and the successful applicant shall be furnished with a certificate of provisional registration.

No person having possession or control of a certificate of registry of a ship shall detain it because of a claim by an owner mortgagee, charterer, or any other person to any title. And he/she shall not fail without reasonable excuse, to deliver the certificate on request to the person entitled to the custody of it for the lawful navigation of the ship.

The registration process of ships in Hong Kong is simple but thorough to ensure no illegal usage or navigation takes place.

Closure of registration can be made upon the request of the owner or as deemed by the Registrar when it has ceased to be registrable or when the ship or ship-owner has failed to comply with the registration ordinances.

Requirements to Register a Ship in Hong Kong  FAQs

Do i need to purchase insurance for my ship.

Yes, y our  need to  purchase   insur ance   for  your ship   from  a  third-party  insurance  agent .   T he amount is no less than HKD 5,000,000. F or the ships  c arrying more than 12 pass e ngers,  your insurance will cost you  approximately HK$ 10,000,000.  

What is the annual tonnage charge for a ship in Hong Kong?

The annual tonnage charge for a ship in Hong Kong is dependent on the net tonnage ,  and the charges are broken down as follows;  

The n et to nna ge of ships 1,000 or below is charged at KG$ 1,500, 5,000 net tonnage s  also at HKD 1,500.  The n et tonnage of  10,000   is  HKD 33,000.  The n et tonnage of 15,000 is HKD 50500 ,  while  the  net tonnage of 20,000 costs HKD 65,500, and the net tonnage of 24,000 and above will cost you 77,500.  

What is the fee for registering a ship in Hong Kong?

The registration fee for a ship is determined by its Gross Tonnage (GT). The  break down  is as follows — 500 GT and below costs HKD 3,500 ,  and over 500 GT costs HKD 15,000.  

The Hong Kong registry was set up in 1990. The merchant Shipping Ordi n ance is responsible for  the  ship registration process in Hong Kong ,  and  the Marine Department of Hong Kong manages it .  

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HONG KONG BOAT REGISTRATION

Hong kong yacht registration, hong kong yacht registration for private owners.

• Ready within a week
• The whole procedure can be done online
• Easy and fast process
• No originals documents needed
• Valid for a year
• Available for any nationality
• Well-established ship registration system
• Also suitable for commercial yachts
• Low registration costs
• Suitable for renting out a private yacht
• Variety of services
• Hospitable tax and regulatory environment
• Get your MMSI with us

Hong Kong Yacht Registration For company owners

Register your boat in hong kong.

WE ARE THE ONLY COMPANY THAT INCLUDES ALL

• Let us check your documents for free! Are you not sure if you have the correct documents to register your boat in Hong Kong. Please send us your documents by email or Whatsapp and our experts will check it out for you for free!
• Let us translate your documents for free Our service includes free translations of all your boat documents. This will save you a lot of money!
• 7 days customer service in most languages We have call centers in 3 countries, where you can contact us 7 days a week with staff that speak; English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, German, Dutch, Russian, Ukrainian and Polish!
• Guaranteed provisional within a week! (After receiving signed documents) We have actual staff in Hong Kong and do not use intermediaries. We can therefor guarantee to have your provisional registration ready in less than a week (after receiving signed documents). This provisional registration is fully valid to use your boat.

JUST 4 SIMPLE STEPS

ONLINE FORM

Fill in our online form in just 3 minutes

Send us your boat documents and passport copy.

We submit your paperwork to the Hong Kong authorities.

We send your new registration to you by overnight courier

What documents do we need?

In order to register your yacht in Hong Kong, the documentation is very simple:

1) Notarized passport copy

2) proof of ownership / sale agreement, 3) safety regulations survey, 4) a copy of insurance policy of the yacht, 5 – 7 days boat registration.

We can register your vessel and / or arrange your MMSI license.

24 Hours MMSI License

Meet our experts.

We have a highly experienced team who deal with the Hong Kong registrations.

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WE REGISTER MORE BOATS IN HONG KONG THAN ANYONE ELSE

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Hong Kong Yacht Registration

Yacht registration under the hong kong flag.

The Hong Kong Shipping Register (HKSR) is a register of ships that are owned or operated by companies based in Hong Kong. It is recognized as one of the leading shipping registers in the world and is known for its high standards and efficient administration. The HKSR is overseen by the Marine Department of the Hong Kong SAR Government and operates under the Merchant Shipping (Registration) Ordinance.

Benefits of registering with the HKSR include:

As a member of the HKSR, ships can operate on international shipping routes.

The HKSR is recognized by international maritime organizations, including the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the Paris MoU on Port State Control.

It has a well-established and efficient administrative process, allowing for quick and straightforward registration and renewal.

Ship owners and operators registered with the HKSR can benefit from Hong Kong's favorable tax regime.

HKSR provides technical support and advice to ship owners and operators, including on issues related to safety and compliance.

Documents required to register the boat:

• A copy of the owner’s Identity, such as a passport or Hong Kong ID card.
• A bill of sale or equivalent paperwork demonstrating that the applicant is the boat's legitimate owner.
• A safety regulation compliance certificate, such as a safety survey certificate, issued by an acknowledged institution.
• A current insurance policy that protects the vessel and its use in Hong Kong waterways.

How long it will take to register my yacht?

We can provide you the provisional registration within 5-7 days and you will get the original papers within 4-6 weeks.

Introduction

  Yacht Registry Services Inc. is a premier, full service yacht documentation, title, and escrow service company. Based in Fort Lauderdale at the Bahia Mar Yachting Center, we have been providing marine documentation and corporate services globally for over 20 years.  

  The relationships we have developed with governmental maritime agencies are an invaluable resource to our clients. Our expertise and experience allows us to offer the customer creative alternatives for yacht ownership.

• Certified Member of AVDA (American Vessel Documentation Association) since 2008  
• Affiliate Member of IYBA (International Yacht Brokers Association)

Services Include

• Title and Closing Agent for Yacht Transactions 
• ​Isle of Man
• Marshall Islands 
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines* 
• Tender Registrations/Renewals 
• Commercial Registrations for Charter Yachts and Other Vessels
• Escrow Services 
• Domestic and International Corporations 
• US Coast Guard Documentation 
• State Titles and Registrations 
• Foreign Flag Registries 
• ​British Virgin Islands
• Cayman Islands
• Hong Kong 

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Cook Islands

The Cook Islands is comprised of a group of 15 islands located in the South Pacific Ocean (between Tahiti in the east, Samoa and Tonga in the w est) in free association with New Zealand.

Guernsey is one of many islands within the British Isles. Located in the Bay of St Malo, it is an independent jurisdiction governed by its own ‘Parliament’, the States of Guernsey is however dependent on the British Crown for administration of defence and foreign affairs. 

Singapore is known as a City in a Garden and nearly 50 percent of the island is green space. It is a thriving metropolis offering a world-class infrastructure, vibrant living spaces and a rich culture largely influenced by the four major communities in Singapore.

Belize (formerly British Honduras) is a scenically beautiful, independent country located on the Caribbean seaboard of Central America. Belize has an area of approximately 23,026 sq km, and is bounded by Mexico to the north and Guatemala to the west and south.

The administrative capital of Belize is Belmopan, but the major commercial centre is Belize City, which is located on the eastern coast close to the major international airport.

Located in Southern Europe, the Republic of San Marino is an enclave in central Italy overlooking the Adriatic Sea, San Marino does not pose any restrictions on the nationality of seafarers. Moreover, the Administration offers simple and fast procedures for the embarkation and disembarkation of seafarers, which can be completed by the master with no

additional requirements.

Marshall Islands

The Marshall Islands are situated nearly midway between Australia and Hawaii, and are the easternmost island group in Micronesia. Comprising 1,156 individual islands and islets. The islands share maritime boundaries with the Federated States of Micronesia to the west, Wake Island to the north, Kiribati to the south-east, and Nauru to the south. The most populous atoll is Majuro, which also acts as the capital.

Offshore Inc Hong Kong Limited administers yacht registrations within Southeast Asia and our team have more than a decade’s worth of experience collectively. Our tenure within the industry has helped us forge good relationships with a number of maritime agencies and we can help streamline and provide better assistance than the run-of-the mill intermediaries who are treated as strangers as they make their applications. When problems arise, these relationships go the distance. Offshore Inc Hong Kong has those relationships.

Within the sphere of yacht registrations, many of our clients choose to own their vessels through a company that holds the yacht as its sole asset. This is an astute strategy as the company would mitigate any potential liabilities that would befall the direct owners personally. As such, Offshore Inc Hong Kong has developed similar relationships with the registrars of several of the best jurisdictions for this purpose. Our knowledgeable staff can quickly handle the necessary requirements for forming a company for this purpose or  for redomiciling one from a jurisdiction that has become less attractive due to changes in their laws.

HONG KONG FLAG REGISTRATION FOR BOATS

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United Kingdom

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Saint Kitts and Nevis

עברית השכרת רכב

We are working on getting this flag registration in a near future.

Register your yacht under Hong Kong flag

Register your tender under Hong Kong flag

Register your Jet Ski's under Hong Kong flag

• 01.  BOATS
• 02.  YACHTS
• 03.  TENDERS
• 04.  JET SKI'S

Hong Kong Flag Registration

Why should i register my boat under hong kong flag.

Personal or Private Use

You can register your boat in Hong Kong under personal or company name

Validity! Easy Renewals!

The registration is valid for 1 year, and it must be renewed

Low price boat registration for boats, tenders, and jet-ski’s under the Hong Kong Flag.

Access to Hong Kong waters

You can get access to Hong Kong waters

Available In 5-7 working days!

We will have your provisional registration done in 5-7 working days and it will be legal to use already

Simple registration process

Hong Kong has a straightforward boat registration process that is efficient and relatively quick

Private, Bareboat & Commercial

We can register your boat as Private, Bareboat & Commercial use.

Good Reputation

Hong Kong is a reputable and well-respected maritime hub

ABOUT US & PRICING

Let the professionals take care of your registration..

Let our multilingual staff in Hong Kong take care of your provisional registration in just 5-7 working days. We have been helping hundreds of people to get their boat registered in Hong Kong and have good contact with the local authorities which are based just around the corner.

We are available 7 days a week and can be reached by tell, email or chat in your own language. Our clients are from all over the world as most countries have a very complicated and expensive boat registration procedure but by having their boat registered in Hong Kong this can be avoided.

Testimonials

We’ve proud trusted clients..

I bought a boat in Spain but choose to avoid the cost and 3 months of paperwork by registering my boat in Poland. Best decision ever!

Brian Newsome

Thank you, for your fast registration! I was stuck in a marina in Italy and these guys got my new registration in 48 hours.

Frederico Guilbert

Flawless service, done for the price stated online, in the time period, and document delivered on time within 2-5 days

Brad Foreman

Highly recommended. It was a very fast communication, all the people I communicate with are polite, proffesional and specialist in their field.

PAYMENT OPTIONS

All forms of payment are accepted..

What paperwork is needed

• Bill of sale copy
• Passport copy
• A survey compliance document of safety regulations
• Insurance policy

Most common questions about Hong Kong yacht registration

Who can apply for the hong kong boat registration.

All the nationalities can apply for the Hong Kong boat registration.

What documents do I need to provide in order to register the boat under Hong Kong flag?

Can i register the boat as commercial or bareboat.

Yes, boats can be registered for commercial and bareboat purposes.

Does it matter what language the paper is in?

The documents are being accepted in the Chinese and English language. The sworn translation will be handled by us if the documents are not in the required language.

How soon can I register my boat with Hong Kong registration?

The temporary registration (provisional) can be provided within 5-7 working days if we have all the correct documents and the original registration should not take more than 4 -6 weeks.

Will I be getting the provisional document before the original registration?

Yes, we can provide you the provisional documents in 5-7 working days

Is a paper copy of the registration available?

Yes, the document will have information about the Owner name and address, date of registration, Registration number, expiry date, Boat data, Boat photo. Along with an official seal, it also bears the stamp and signature of the maritime department.

How long is a registration in Hong Kong good for?

The Hong Kong registration is valid for 12 months.

Do we need to get the inspection done?

Which flag is permissible to fly on a boat with a hong kong registration.

You need to fly the Hong Kong flag.

Do you take all forms of payment?

Yes, we accept all international payment methods.

Can you help change the owner on the current registration?

How do i cancel my current registration.

• Cancellation request in written format with a reason
• Hong Kong registration
• Shipping papers (If applicable)

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• 4:02 am COVID-19 SAFETY GUIDELINES AND REQUIREMENTS TO ENTER PANAMA
• 3:06 am The Panamanian flag is flying on 16% of the world’s ships fleet
• 6:51 am Panama is the venue of the “XXIII meeting of the Agreement Committee and Administrators of Information Centers as well as Technical Work Groups” of the Viña del Mar Agreement.
• 4:49 am Panama continues to be the leader in flag ship registry with 8,662 vessels
• 8:04 am Statement from the Panama Ship Registry
• 8:01 am Panamanian Arsenio Dominguez is elected IMO’s Secretary General

General Information about vessel registration under the Panamanian Flag

Any foreign or Panamanian national may register a vessel in the Panamanian Merchant Marine. International service vessels are exempt from Panama income tax. Shipowners take advantage of the flexibility of Panamanian offshore corporations by having such entity appear as owner of the vessel. Any ship may be registered provided it complies with the minimum seaworthiness, safety and environmental conditions required by international conventions.

The Registration consists in two steps: provisional and permanent.  The Consul General of the Consulate General of Panama in Hong Kong will handle the initial paperwork and is authorized to issue temporary documentation including a provisional Certificate of Registration (normally known as “Patente”), valid for 6 months and a provisional Radio License, valid for 6 months. The procedure is straightforward and is usually completed within the same day, as soon as registration fees and first year’s annual charges are paid in the office.

The shipowner must appoint a Panamanian law firm to act as its representative in Panama. That firm will file the title of ownership with the Public Registry Office, in Panama, and submit an application for permanent registration to the Shipping Department within the validity period of the temporary certificates.

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teamLab in Hong Kong: location, opening hours, registration info, and more

Everything you need to know about the new teamLab: Continuous installations in Hong Kong

The highly-anticipated teamLab: Continuous is officially here! As part of the city's Art@Harbour 2024 initiative during Hong Kong Arts Month , international art collective teamLab has set up hundreds of glowing ovoids stretching from Tamar Park all the way to the Central and Western District Promenade. Keep reading to find out when, where, and how you can catch the stunning installations.

When is teamLab: Continuous happening in Hong Kong?

The large-scale installations officially open on March 25 and will be in Hong Kong until June 2. Opening hours are 6.30pm to 11pm daily, with the last entry at 10.30pm.

Where is the teamLab: Continuous installation in Hong Kong?

Visitors will be able to catch the installation at Tamar Park and the Central and Western District Promenade, but registration will be required beforehand to access the lawns on which the installations are placed.

teamLab: Continuous registration details

To access the exhibition lawn area of teamLab: Continuous, all visitors must first register for a timeslot online . The availability of sessions will be updated every Monday at 12 noon for the bookings of the following week. Additionally, at 1pm every day, a limited number of slots for the same day will be released. All bookings are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Those who have successfully registered will receive a confirmation email with an admission QR code for free entry. Please note that each admission QR code is valid only for the specified session, and entry will not be permitted without a valid QR code. 

Each individual, regardless of age, is entitled to one ticket only. Moreover, each email address is permitted to register for one session on the same date, with each registration allowing a maximum of two persons. Each admission QR code can only be used once. Lastly, it is essential to arrive on the specified date and time as indicated in your booking. Failure to do so will result in the invalidation of the QR code, without the possibility of exchange or compensation.

What can I see at the teamLab: Continuous installation in Hong Kong?

Visitors will have the opportunity to view and interact with two sets of artworks. The Resonating Life which Continues to Stand  showcases numerous luminous ovoids spread across the lawns and floating on the waters along the promenade. These ovoids will change colours when influenced by waves, blown by the wind, or pushed by people! The other set of artwork is Resonating Trees , where the surrounding trees at Tamar Park are lit up in various colours in response to the giant glowing 'eggs'.

Here's a quick glimpse of the teamLab installation before you go!

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Hong Kong promises its latest national security law is not a ban on social media

Trust us – we're the government.

On Tuesday, Hong Kong's legislature unanimously passed the city's latest controversial national security legislation, otherwise known as Article 23.

Critics are calling the law rushed and fast-tracked, as it was passed within eleven days of introduction. However, it's been two decades in the making. A similar bill was met with protests in 2003, and a national security bill, on which Article 23 builds, was finally passed in 2020.

This time, the article [PDF] prohibits "any act of treason, secession, sedition, subversion" against the Chinese government, along with theft of state secrets and external interference.

Like many documents out of Beijing, it's vague in defining offenses. It also levies stiff penalties of up to 20 years in prison for theft of state secrets, or a lifetime for treason and insurrection.

"Today marks a historic moment for Hong Kong. It is a historic moment that Hong Kong has been waiting for 26 years, eight months and 19 days," proclaimed Hong Kong chief executive John Lee.

He alleged the law will safeguard national sovereignty and security while honoring Hong Kong and China's "one country, two systems" relationship.

Feedback was sought on the law, which comes into effect on March 23. Hong Kong's government duly presented views, including discussion of bans on social media.

It's a reasonable question – given that Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and X are currently accessible in Hong Kong, but not in mainland China.

Hong Kong's justice minister Paul Lam reportedly insisted that restricting access to the socials was not the intent. That doesn't mean that how a person uses social media won't create legal problems for them.

"What we are targeting are the use, abuse, or misuse of these tools to spread speech that can endanger national security … We are not targeting social media per se," clarified Lam.

The article's accompanying consultation paper does warn that "given the popular use of the internet and social messaging applications," messages that promote the endangerment of national security "can be covertly disseminated in a fast and extensive manner."

The law also introduces [PDF] the offence of "doing acts endangering national security in relation to computers or electronic systems."

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Article 23 has been criticized by various sources.

Human Rights Watch (HRW) alleged it "eliminates the last vestiges of fundamental freedoms in the city," and "punishes peaceful speech and civil society activism."

Implications are global, as its provisions apply Hong Kong-based businesses anywhere in the world, warned the org.

HRW director Elaine Pearson pointed out that even possessing a book in Hong Kong critical of the Chinese Communist Party can result in years in prison.

She's not being hyperbolic. The Associate Press reported security minister Chris Tang advising residents charged with having a copy of a publication considered seditious because they forgot they had it in their possession can lodge a reasonable defense to potentially prevent spending up to three years in jail.

Amnesty International also spoke out against the law. China director Sarah Brooks alleged it sends a message about Hong Kong authorities' desire to accommodate Beijing outweighing any human rights commitments.

Among the org's many concerns is allowing for detention without charge for 16 days and denial of access to a lawyer.

Governments – including Australia , the US , the European Union , and the United Nations – have also expressed their concern.

The UK, Hong Kong's former colonial ruler, expressed concerns on matters including "the absence of any reference to independent oversight, or the mechanisms that would support it."

The US stated it was worried about the law's vague definitions, as well as how Hong Kong would "apply Article 23 extraterritorially in their ongoing campaign of transnational repression to intimidate and restrict the free speech of US citizens and residents."

But there's one group untroubled by the law: the Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong.

Despite Article 23 requiring citizens to report those who are believed to be endangering national security, the religious organization assured its parishioners that the legislation "will not alter the confidential nature of Confession."

As for what the law means for businesses that see Hong Kong as a hub, and the territory’s ambition to enhance that status with initiatives such as support for the digital assets industry, that remains to be seen.

The city's population declined after the introduction of the 2020 security law – a loss that was further compounded by the implementation of strict COVID measures. Some recovery has since materialized , and by June 2023 the population grew to where it had been at the end of 2019.

The Hong Kong government claimed that out of 13,000 submissions of opinion, 98.6 percent have shown support – which it said indicates that the legislation is popular. Those opposed to the law, however, knew that making their feelings public was dangerous before the law passed – and is even riskier now that it has come into force. ®

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Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire

Two ancient titans, Godzilla and Kong, clash in an epic battle as humans unravel their intertwined origins and connection to Skull Island's mysteries. Two ancient titans, Godzilla and Kong, clash in an epic battle as humans unravel their intertwined origins and connection to Skull Island's mysteries. Two ancient titans, Godzilla and Kong, clash in an epic battle as humans unravel their intertwined origins and connection to Skull Island's mysteries.

• Adam Wingard
• Terry Rossio
• Simon Barrett
• Jeremy Slater
• Rebecca Hall
• Brian Tyree Henry
• Dan Stevens

• Ilene Andrews

• Bernie Hayes

• Submarine Commander

• Submarine Officer

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• Ms. Cadogan

• Monarch Specialist
• (as Vincent Gorce)
• Iwi Warrior
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• Trivia Godzilla's new design here has purple/pink-colored plates akin to his MireGoji design from Godzilla 2000: Millennium (1999) and Godzilla vs. Megaguirus (2000) .

Trapper : Just try not to swallow your tongue.

Bernie Hayes : What?

• Connections Featured in WatchMojo: Top 10 Epic Godzilla Team Ups (2023)

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• March 29, 2024 (United States)
• United States
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• Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
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• Warner Bros.
• See more company credits at IMDbPro

Technical specs

• Runtime 1 hour 55 minutes
• IMAX 6-Track
• Dolby Digital
• Dolby Surround 7.1
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Hong Kong leader says prisoners jailed for national security crimes unlikely to get early release

The Associated Press

March 26, 2024, 8:14 AM

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HONG KONG (AP) — Hong Kong’s leader said Tuesday that prisoners convicted for serious national security crimes would not likely be granted early release under the tightened rules of a new national security law , signaling a hardening government stance against jailed political activists.

Chief Executive John Lee said the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance stipulates that people found guilty of endangering national security must not be granted remission unless the commissioner of correctional services believes the move would not be a national security risk. This also applies to inmates who received sentences before the new law was introduced last Saturday, Lee said.

Previously, inmates could have their prison sentences reduced by up to one-third for good conduct under the city’s prison rules, provided they were serving terms longer than one month.

At a weekly press briefing, Lee urged residents not to defy the law.

“We need to make sure everyone understands that if someone was convicted of serious national security offenses, normally there would not be remission of sentence,” he said.

Lee’s comments came after local media, including the South China Morning Post, reported that the early release of activist Ma Chun-man, which had been scheduled for Monday, was blocked under the new national security law. The remission had been granted due to his good conduct and the blockage was the first of its kind, according to the reports, which cited unnamed sources.

Ma’s friend, who spoke on the condition of anonymity due to fear of government retribution, told The Associated Press that the release date of Ma had been pushed back due to the new law.

The revised practice is expected to affect other activists who are jailed or undergoing trials under a similar sweeping security law imposed by Beijing four years ago to quell massive anti-government protests in 2019.

Ma was serving a five-year term for inciting secession under the 2020 security law. He was convicted in 2021 for repeatedly advocating for Hong Kong’s independence.

At the press briefing, Lee did not confirm Ma’s case when asked about it but said the commissioner handles cases in accordance with the law. He said anyone who disagrees with the commissioner’s handling of a case can seek to resolve the matter through legal means.

In an emailed response to the AP, the correctional services department refused to comment on individual cases. But it said the commissioner would consider all relevant factors, including inmates’ statements, on a case-by-case basis to ensure all cases are handled fairly.

The new national security law was unanimously passed in an expedited legislative process last week, deepening worries over a further erosion of the city’s freedoms. Western governments, including the United States, have criticized the legislation.

As of Tuesday, authorities have not announced any arrests under the new law, which they say balances security with safeguarding rights and freedoms. They also say the legislation was needed to keep the city safe against “potential sabotage” and “undercurrents that try to create troubles.”

Copyright © 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.

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Hong Kong - The Place For Pleasure Boating

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Hong Kong, with its beautiful coastline and numerous outlying islands, provides excellent opportunities for water-related leisure activities such as water skiing, sailing, surfing and boating. The popularity of water sports is backed by a wide range of clubs and resorts offering facilities, activities and training for enthusiasts.

All pleasure craft operators in Hong Kong must hold Local Certificates of Competency as a Pleasure Vessel Operator, a requirement to ensure safety in the high traffic local waters.

The Hong Kong Yachting Association represents the interests of pleasure craft operators on Government committees and is recognized internationally. The Association also keeps the Government informed of the latest developments in boating and watersports.

To ensure that everyone can enjoy the fun of boating, the Marine Department has taken active measures to ensure safety in the sea and protect the marine environment. Pleasure vessel owners and operators can obtain information and guidelines on safe operation from the department's office.

Three Things To Do Before Operating Your Pleasure Vessels

• License your vessel.
• Ensure that your boat will be under the charge of a properly certified pleasure vessel operator. Grades of the certificates held must be appropriate to your boat's length, engine type (diesel, petrol and outboard) and engine power.
• Acquire a third party risk insurance of not less than HK$5,000,000 for your vessel.

Licensing of Pleasure Vessels

It's simple.

Fill in the appropriate application form (MD 515) , follow the Guidance Notes attached to the form, return it to the Marine Department enclosing the required documents and a cheque made out to the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region for the prescribed fee .

It's Quick!

After the application form has been checked with all details completed correctly, a licence will be issued to you.

Paint or affix the allocated Certificate of Ownership number on each side of your vessel, as close to amidships as possible.

It's Direct!

Application form (MD 515) can be downloaded here or obtained at any of the eight District Marine Offices .

Class/Types of Pleasure Vessels:

Pleasure Vessels are Class IV vessels under the local licensing System with the following types:

• Auxiliary Powered Yacht
• Open Cruiser

Notes on Cruiser:

• Vessel with continuous main deck; or
• Vessel's cabin could accommodate 60 % of vessel's carrying capacity (total number of persons permitted to carry) with weatherproof cabin door and drainage holes on deck.

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