Diners enjoyed a lunchtime cruise at Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbour on Wednesday in a trial of a new option for budget tour groups from mainland China, after an influx of visitors queuing at restaurants in the To Kwa Wan neighbourhood sparked complaints.

Harbour Cruise – Bauhinia, a local operator, launched a trial to receive mainland tour groups for lunch on Wednesday. About 60 tourists from northeastern provinces were the first to enjoy the daytime dining experience.

“If things go smoothly, we wish to offer lunch to tour groups regularly,” said Rockie Ip Ting-kwok, director of operations. “This is a win-win situation. We could reduce disturbances to the To Kwa Wan area and promote Hong Kong tourism.”