The Sampan Houseboat is Hong Kong’s traditional “three plank” wooden fishing boat that now offers scenic tours around Victoria Harbour.

The Sampan Houseboat is loosely translated as “three plank” houseboat, due to its original design of a single wide floor plank and two side wall planks. Nowadays, the Sampan Houseboat is a little more sophisticated and provides a far more comfortable experience, with tours around Hong Kong’s iconic Victoria Harbour.

Simple Effective Design

A simple but effective design, the Sanpan Houseboat features a flat-bottom plank attached to two wooden walls and a roof fortified with long bamboo poles. The captain operates the boat with just two hand-operated mechanisms, one for the engine and the other for the rudder (essentially the boat’s steering wheel).

Cozy Home Vibes

A beautiful bamboo ceiling, matted floors, hanging red lanterns, and colorful bouquets create a rather homey vibe, befitting the name “houseboat.” It can be a nice environment for meeting new people too! Families and friends from overseas as well as those from the local area enjoy catching the Sampan Houseboat across the harbour.

All Along Victoria Harbour!

A scenic tour around Victoria Harbour is a great add-on activity on top of your Victoria Peak visit. That way, you get to see the view of the harbour from the peak, and also can see the view of the peak from the harbour! Indeed, the Sampan Houseboat will have you feeling like a local Hong Kong fisherman from the 19th Century.

Tai Pak Floating Restaurant

One of the coolest sights during the Sampan Houseboat tour is the Tai Pak floating seafood restaurant! With brilliant traditional Chinese architecture and an incredible foundation that lets it stand on the water, it’s an iconic structure of Victoria Harbour. Unfortunately, the restaurant has been closed as of 2023, but the good news is it’s due to reopen by the end of 2026!