As we wander through the bustling streets of Sheung Wan, it's hard to imagine the area as a thriving maritime hub, filled with the sounds of hammering, drilling, and the smell of tar and rope. Yet, from the 1930s to the 1980s, this was the heart of Hong Kong's ferry trade, with craftsmen and women working tirelessly to keep the vessels moving.

The waterfront was lined with small workshops, each specializing in a particular craft: rope makers, ship chandlers, compass repairers, and nautical sign painters. These artisans were the unsung heroes of the ferry trade, working behind the scenes to ensure the safe and efficient transportation of people and goods between Hong Kong and Macau.

One of the few remaining family businesses is the rope maker, Mr. Wong, who has been plying his trade for over 40 years. "I remember when I was a young boy, my father would take me to the waterfront and show me the different types of ropes and how they were made," he recalls. "It was a thriving industry, with many workshops and factories producing all sorts of maritime equipment."

As we walk through the Shun Tak Centre, it's possible to spot architectural traces of the old waterfront, with remnants of the original pier and warehouse buildings still visible. However, the rapid redevelopment of the area has erased much of the working harbour culture, leaving only fragments of the past.

In contrast, other historic ferry terminals around the world have made efforts to preserve their maritime heritage. For example, the historic ferry terminal in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf has been restored to its former glory, with many of the original buildings and equipment still intact. Similarly, the ferry terminal in Sydney's Circular Quay has been transformed into a thriving cultural and entertainment precinct, with many of the old maritime buildings repurposed as restaurants, bars, and shops.

So, where can visitors still spot fragments of this maritime craftsmanship today? One place is the Hong Kong Maritime Museum, which has an excellent collection of exhibits showcasing the city's rich maritime history. Another is the Sheung Wan Fong restaurant, which has preserved many of the old maritime signs and equipment in its decor. And for those willing to venture further afield, the old fishing village of Aberdeen is still home to many traditional boat builders and repairers, who continue to ply their trade using traditional techniques and materials.