A good company outing should give colleagues something to enjoy together, even if exercise is not part of their usual routine. A tandem kayak encourages two people to communicate; learning to paddle a SUP gives colleagues a chance to encourage one another away from their desks. The aim is a shared experience that feels welcoming, rather than a compulsory fitness test.
This guide takes HR teams and organisers through the decisions behind a water-based team-building day in Sai Kung. Start with your people and your purpose, then build the itinerary around them.
A planning timeline
| When | What to organise |
|---|---|
| Six weeks ahead | Agree on the objective, estimated headcount and budget. Ask about availability and quotations. |
| Four weeks ahead | Choose the activities and meeting point, then invite colleagues to register. |
| Two weeks ahead | Confirm dietary needs, relevant health or access requirements, insurance and provisional groups. Handle personal information discreetly. |
| One week ahead | Review the forecast, discuss backup dates and send meeting instructions and a packing list. |
| On the day | Allow time for check-in, equipment fitting, the safety briefing, the activity, photographs and a short wrap-up. |
Decide what you want the day to achieve
For stronger connections, mix departments and choose tasks that need cooperation. Tandem kayaking offers a straightforward way to practise listening and coordinating. If the goal is leadership, discuss suitable small-group tasks with the organiser and let different people take a turn guiding the group. For a team that needs a break, a relaxed paddle with time to enjoy the coastline may work better than a competition.
Choose the location and activity together
Sai Kung offers a coastal setting for a day away from the office. Check transport, the meeting point, changing facilities and toilets as carefully as the route itself. Sea conditions vary: a scenic bay should never be assumed to be calm on every date.
Kayaking is a useful starting point for colleagues who prefer seated paddling and working in pairs. SUP offers a balance challenge, with beginners able to start kneeling under instruction. Ask about a mixed programme if interests and confidence levels differ. The final combination should suit the participants, equipment, instructor capacity and conditions.
Confirm safety and insurance arrangements
Ask about instructor supervision, correctly fitted buoyancy equipment, the safety briefing and the plan for returning to shore. Let the team know about swimming confidence and any health or mobility concerns before booking, so suitability can be assessed. A life jacket is essential equipment, but does not make every activity suitable for everyone. Confirm what insurance is included and whether your organisation needs additional cover.
Agree on the weather decision process in writing: who contacts the group, when a decision is expected and what happens if conditions change after departure. Rescheduling and any refund should follow the terms confirmed for your booking.
Prepare the practical details
Send one clear joining message with transport guidance, the meeting time and a contact number. Remind participants to bring drinking water, sun protection, suitable footwear, a towel and a change of clothes. Confirm dietary requirements before arranging food. Leave enough time for changing and travelling to any meal afterwards.
Build a transparent budget
Request a quotation that separates the activity fee, instructors and equipment, transport, meals, insurance and optional photography. State the expected number of participants, preferred dates and activity mix. Ask what is included, what costs extra and how a change in headcount affects the price.
Make room for different confidence levels
Explain the expected pace honestly and let colleagues raise concerns privately. Discuss less demanding options and sensible groupings with the instructors. Photographs can be a valuable reminder of the day; agree on photography arrangements and participant consent before using images in company communications.
Visit our group event planning page to discuss a programme, request a quotation and view the planning resources, or explore our activities.
Frequently asked questions
Can a colleague who cannot swim join?
Tell us before booking. We will discuss the activity, conditions and support needed to assess suitability; participation should not be assumed solely because a life jacket is provided.
How much time should we allow?
A half-day programme often allows around three to four hours for the briefing, activity and photographs. Confirm the actual schedule for your group and add time for transport, changing and meals.
What if the weather is unsuitable?
Follow the team's instructions and the weather arrangements confirmed with your booking. Discuss backup dates early and do not put the schedule ahead of safety.
Should we choose kayaking or SUP?
Tandem kayaking suits a focus on coordination; SUP offers an individual learning challenge. A mixed programme may suit a group with different preferences.
Can we have photographs for company use?
Ask about the photography service, delivery and permitted use when requesting your quotation, and obtain the participants' consent.