Victoria Harbour Boat Cruise

Hello All

Greetings

We are a family of 5 visiting wonderful Hongkong around Christmas..Can any one recommend good and reliable Boat cruise in evening time when we can witness Symphony of Light show as well.We will be staying at TST area.

Thanks n Cheers

Hello and greetings! What a fantastic time to visit Victoria Harbour in Hong Kong around Christmas — the skyline, lights and festive atmosphere will be spectacular. Since you’re staying in the Tsim Sha Tsui (TST) area and want an evening boat cruise to witness the A Symphony of Lights show, here are some good and reliable options, plus some tips to make the most of it.

Key things to know about the show & timing:

  • The Symphony of Lights show is staged *every night* at 8:00 pm, weather permitting.
  • The best vantage points include the TST waterfront (outside the Hong Kong Cultural Centre, the Avenue of Stars), and from sightseeing cruises on the harbour.
  • An evening cruise gives you a bonus: instead of just watching from shore, you’ll *be on the water*, around the skyline of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, which means you’ll get 360-degree views of the light show.

Recommended boat cruise options for your family (5 people) staying in TST:

  • Harbour Cruise – Bauhinia “A Symphony of Lights” Dinner Buffet Cruise: Departs from North Point (East) Passenger Ferry Pier on Hong Kong Island at around 7:20 pm to 9:30 pm. Includes dinner buffet and live band, with the harbour cruise timed to include the light show.
  • Evening Harbour Cruise (Symphony of Lights) via luxury yacht or sightseeing boat: Options depart around 7:15-7:30 pm from either Tsim Sha Tsui Pier No. 3 (Kowloon side) or Central Pier No. 9 (Hong Kong Island side). Duration ~60-75 minutes.
  • “Dreamer” Luxury Yacht Night Cruise with unlimited drinks + light show: Depart times around ~19:00-19:20, includes snacks/drinks and great photo-op. Leaving from TST (Public Pier No. 2/3) or Central.

What I suggest for your family:

  • Since you’re staying in TST, pick a cruise that boards from TST side (Public Pier No. 3) if possible — that makes it easiest logistically for you. Many operators list this as a meeting point.
  • A board time around 7:15-7:30 pm is ideal — this gives you time to settle in before the show at 8:00 pm, and the cruise will be timed so that you are moving through the harbour during the show.
  • Make sure your booking mentions specifically viewing the Symphony of Lights — some cruises are just “night harbour views” but don’t guarantee the show. For example many list “Symphony of Lights Cruise (19:00 / 19:15)” in their options.
  • Check for family-friendly amenities: indoor seating (if weather is cooler), outdoor deck for photos, life jackets accessible, and any restrictions for children. Since you are a family of five and likely with different ages, confirm seating arrangement.
  • December will be a busy festive time — reserve early, especially for a group of five, and choose a good viewpoint on the boat (window facing skyline, deck space). Also check cancellation policy in case of bad weather (typhoon or heavy rain may cancel the show/cruise).

Extra tips to maximise the experience:

  • Arrive at the boarding pier at least 10–15 minutes early so you can choose good seats and not miss the departure. Some quotes state “arrive 10–15 minutes in advance” as important.
  • Bring a warm layer / jacket since it can get breezy on the water in the evening, especially around Christmas time in Hong Kong.
  • Try to pick a side of the boat facing Hong Kong Island and/or Kowloon skyline — the light show spans both sides of the harbour. The deck or upper story allows for best views.
  • In December, there may also be extra festive lighting, so consider maybe going a bit earlier (7:15pm) so you can enjoy pre-show atmosphere and perhaps some holiday décor on the buildings.
  • If one of you wants less motion (for kids or anyone who might feel uneasy on boats) select a larger sightseeing boat rather than a small speed-boat style. The ones above are pleasant and stable.

In short: yes — there are *very good and reliable* evening boat cruises for the Symphony of Lights that suit a family of five staying in TST. Book early, choose a TST-board time around 7:15-7:30pm, ensure the show is included, and you’ll have a memorable experience of Hong Kong’s harbour at night.


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