Mong Kok, Ap Lei Chau, Wan Chai and Sham Shui Po are Hong Kong's hunting grounds for marine gear — chandlery, rope, fittings, electronics and everything in between, at a fraction of Western prices. This guide maps the key streets and building numbers so you can find what you need without wandering for hours.
The map above (revised January 2010, compiled by Rory Larkan) covers the main marine shopping streets: Arran Street, Bute Street, Fife Street, Argyle Street, Nelson Street, Shantung Street, Soy Street, Dundas Street and Hamilton Street in Mong Kok; plus Portland Street, Reclamation Street and Nathan Road. For Ap Lei Chau, the main marine strip is on Ap Lei Chau Main Street.
Tips: most shops open around 10am and close by 7pm. Cash is preferred for small purchases. Bargaining is expected for larger orders. Many vendors don't speak English — bring photos or sample parts. The Aberdeen Wholesale Fish Market (Ap Lei Chau) area has a cluster of marine suppliers worth exploring on the same trip.