STAR FERRY: workhorse of the harbour

Crossing the harbour by Star Ferry is one of the cheapest and most memorable sightseeing journeys you can buy. Thousands travel on this historic vessel every day, some of them visitors mesmerised by their first trip, while residents are nonchalant about their daily commute. The Star Ferry ride between Central and Tsim Sha Tsui will show you the best views of Hong Kong’s famous skyline. On a clear day, the sight is simply stunning – a postcard picture in the flesh. At night, the city's skyscrapers are dramatically lit up. Enjoy the gentle lull of the 10-minute ride for a mere $1.80 to $2.50, or reserve a seat on one of the Star Ferry Company’s night tours (enquiries: 2118 6201).

SAMPAN: less is more

Forget Venice – the gondolas of Hong Kong are less touristy and much less expensive. Day and night, humble wooden sampans can be hailed at the Aberdeen typhoon shelter for an excursion around the seas where fishermen moor their boats. The sampans are motorised and can transport passengers as far out as distant islands or simply wind through typhoon shelters for a glimpse of life on the water. With multitudes of high-rise buildings as the backdrop, the sight of primitive fishing boats epitomises the contrast between the new and the old that defines Hong Kong. At night, some of these water taxis are decorated with strands of fairy lights, luring lovers for a romantic jaunt across the dark seas. Be prepared to haggle – expect to pay under $100 per boat for a 40-minute trip.

CHINESE JUNK: it’s hip to be old

The Chinese sailboat is a symbol of Hong Kong, perpetuated by ubiquitous images of its sweeping sails and rounded hull floating serenely on Victoria Harbour. But visitors expecting a harbour filled with junks, as they are also called, are in for a disappointment. The few Chinese sailboats on the harbour are mostly refurbished or newly-built recreational boats used for short cruises or parties. The Hong Kong Tourism Board’s Duk Ling is the last authentic sailing junk in the city, and $50 buys an hour-long ride (enquiries: 2508 1234). The Aqua Luna, a stylish junk rendition, is easy to spot glowing nightly on the harbour with its bright red sails. Book a 45-minute afternoon or night harbour cruise for $120-$180 per person, or longer day trips to further-flung locations (enquiries: 2116 8821).

PARTY CRUISER OR YACHT: cream of the crop

Luxury-loving Hong Kong people spend warm weekends throwing or attending parties at sea aboard chartered boats. There are the sleek and sexy yachts that transport you in the lap of luxury, or the relatively simpler cruisers that do the job for a dozen friends looking for some sun and surf. If you can’t manage to get yourself invited to an extravagant trip at sea, you can charter a boat for the day, along with a captain and food. The destination is up to you. For a lavish cruiser, contact Saffron Cruises (enquiries: 2857 1311). Grand Hyatt’s Grand Cru is a top of the line megayacht for parties to impress, and can be booked through the hotel (enquiries: 2584 7068).