Giant in the sea: Guangdong Maritime Safety Administration's new patrol vessel Marine Patrol 31 has arrived in Hong Kong for a three-day visit.

The Guangdong Maritime Safety Administration's new patrol vessel Marine Patrol 31 has arrived in Hong Kong for a three-day visit. 

Marine Patrol 31, a 3,000-tonne class ocean-going patrol vessel - 112.8 metres long overall and 13.8 metres wide, is the Mainland's largest and most modern ocean-going patrol vessel.

It has a helipad and carries an EC-135P2-type helicopter on board. 

A new chapter in Mainland's maritime history

Welcoming the vessel's maiden voyage to Hong Kong, Permanent Secretary for Economic Development Sandra Lee said the vessel was writing a new chapter and reaching a new height in the Mainland's maritime history. 

"It is reaching world standards in its equipment and will contribute tremendously to marine safety in regional waters," Ms Lee said.

"Marine Patrol 31 has an important mission of not only participating in rescue work, but also in protecting the environment of our waters. I am sure that with co-operation of the Mainland and Hong Kong Marine Department, we shall double our effects in this regard," she said.

"The visit will strengthen our connection and communication and will build the foundation for future co-operation."

As Marine Patrol 31 entered Victoria Harbour this morning, Government Flying Services helicopters carried out a joint deck-landing exercise on its helipad.

The vessel was escorted by the Marine Department's patrol launch and a fireboat performed a water-jet display. The vessel is berthing at the Macau Ferry Terminal.

Ship to patrol Nanhai waters

The vessel is responsible for patrolling Nanhai waters and its main duties include managing port safety and marine rescue, monitoring marine pollution and investigating accidents at sea.

A group of China Maritime Safety Administration officials led by Guangdong Maritime Safety Administration Director General Wang Xiangtao was on board for the visit.