Our Classic Hong Kong Yacht
'La Bonita'
'La Bonita' is a wonderfully restored Cheoy Lee ‘blue water’ classic cutter rigged sailing yacht. She was handbuilt to Lloyds 100A1 specifications in 1980, with a GRP hull and fitted out in Burmese Teak by local craftsmen at the Cheoy Lee Shipyard Penny’s Bay, Lantau Island Hong Kong.
Cheoy Lee built many yachts to designs by most of the worlds top yacht designers and architects of the day. US singer & songwriter Jimmy Buffet (Margaritaville) owned a Cheoy Lee he nicknamed “Leaky Teaky’s” in a number of his songs.
During their yacht production days (1950’s up to the early 80’s) Cheoy Lee boats were highly regarded for their superb quality, extensive use of Burmese teak and solid construction and were much sought after by offshore sailors worldwide.
'La Bonita' is one of the very few remaining Cheoy Lee yachts from this magical era of Hong Kong's maritime history still sailing in Hong Kong.
La Bonita's Skipper
Owner & Skipper Wayne has restored 'La Bonita' and brought her to the condition we see her in today. Wayne has 30+ years sailing experience in the waters of Hong Kong, Vietnam, Thailand, Philippines, and the Mediterranean with over over 15,000 sea miles logged offshore.
Now in retirement after 30 years of teaching at HKU, Wayne is eager to share his passion for sailing and encourage more people to get out on the water and enjoy all that Hong Kong sailing has to offer.
Marine Qualifications: Local Mar-Dep Hong Kong Pleasure Vessel License Class 1 & 2, VHF Radio Telephony License, RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Cert (2004), RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Cert (2007). A personal Gold member of the 'Royal Yachting Association' since 2004.
Winner: ‘Concourse d’ Elegance’, Best Classic Yacht Aberdeen Boat Club’s Classic Yacht Rally 2015.
Our Rob Perry designed 35 ft 'Offshore' yacht Hand Built by the Craftsmen at 'Cheoy Lee Shipyards' HONG KONG.
If you have questions, please contact us and we will reply as soon as possible. Alternatively, have a look at our FAQs below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have to be a sailor to charter 'La Bonita' ?
No sailing experience is necessary as 'La Bonita' is a crewed yacht. Guests can relax onboard or, if you would like a more 'hands on' experience our skipper and crew are very happy to teach you how.
Will I learn to sail on my charter?
We are very happy to help you get a feel for the basics during your charter.
Can I sail the boat?
Guests can choose how involved they would like to be. Hoist the main sail, take the helm and steer the boat, or just sit back and relax... It’s up to you!
Will we be sharing the yacht with anyone else?
Exclusive charters will only just be your family or friends, the skipper and the crew.
Mixed charters are shared with other like-minded individuals.
Does La Bonita have lifejackets?
Yes. This is a mandatory Marine & Insurance requirement. We have a variety of lifejackets; inland-waters and offshore sailing harness types to suit all sizes.
Does La Bonita have any sun / weather shade?
Yes. 'La Bonita' has a large Bimini to cover the cockpit whilst sailing and at anchor. A spray hood is also available to protect against rain squalls.
Where does 'La Bonita pick up guests?
From Aberdeen Harbour, home of the Jumbo Restaurant. We have a number of sheltered pick up points we can use depending on tide, traffic and weather. Actual location will be communicated to guests a few days before the charter.
What if my partner is nervous about sailing?
We take the comfort and safety of our guests seriously. If you, or any member of your party, feel uncomfortable or nervous we can reduce sail area and adapt the way we are sailing until everyone is happy.
What should be worn on the day?
Protect your feet! Soft soled shoes, like plimsols are best - avoid open toe sandals/flip flops as these can be a liability with deck fittings. Comfortable clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen and hats are a must. Bring towels for swimming & showers.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Should the weather not be on our side and we feel that it would not make for an enjoyable day, we may cancel with the option to re-schedule. Charters will not run during typhoons or rainstorm warnings.