Representatives from the Macau Marine and Water Bureau - plus their counterparts from Guangdong and Zhongshan authorities - recently convened a meeting in Macau in order to promote the 'Free Travel' yachting scheme between Macau and Zhongshan.

They discussed the draft of the Guangdong-Macau Free Travel yachting pilot zone maritime work practices, including the regulations that the yachts will have to fulfil, sailors' accreditation and licensing, the formalities of documentation when entering and exiting ports from both sides, safety measures, and rescue plans in the event of emergency, among other issues.

Following the meetings, the representatives visited Macau Fishermen's Wharf adjacent to the territory's Outer Harbour plus Macau Yacht Club and Coloane Island in order to inspect the environment of berthing and supporting facilities in addition to taking a boat trip to inspect the surrounding waters off Macau and coastal sites. Both sides have pledged to enhance communication and co-operation in order to promote the Free Travel yacht scheme.

The scheme seeks to enable yachts from Macau to berth in the Zhongshan marina and implements a plan by both the Mainland and local governments to facilitate a simpler Customs clearance procedure for yacht owners and crew.