Ocean Park has put forward an imaginative proposal for a co-operative alliance with Hong Kong Disneyland when…
Ocean Park has put forward an imaginative proposal for a co-operative alliance with Hong Kong Disneyland when the latter opens next year, according to Ocean Park chairman, Mr Allan Zeman.
Mr Zeman wants the marine theme park to do cross-promotions with Disneyland. He points out that in Florida, some parks sell customers two tickets at a discount, allowing visitors to go to two facilities. Mr Zeman said if the two parks worked together, it would make Hong Kong stronger as a family destination.
The Hong Kong government, landlord for both operations, welcomed the plan, sources said. The recently revamped Ocean Park, under a four-year plan for renewal, hopes to see visitor numbers rise from three to five million. Disney aims for 5.6 million visitors.
Mr Zeman, the man who boosted the Lan Kwai Fong precinct into an entertainment and dining hub, sees Ocean Park as having two hotels (the first accommodation in the neighbourhood) and stylish Lan Kwai Fong-style restaurants. It will also boost animal attractions, maybe buying and training killer whales. Diners may sit inside the aquarium, or eat with polar bears and pandas, he said.
An integral part of the renewal of Ocean Park is transport. Disney has a special link on the MTR system and that railway is now planning a new line which will include a station at Ocean Park. This is due open in 2009 and will make Ocean Park reachable within five minutes from downtown Hong Kong Island.
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