The Swire Institute of Marine Science (SWIMS) was opened in 1990 on the southernmost tip of the scenic Cape d’Aguilar peninsula on Hong Kong Island. It is located on the shores of Hong Kong’s only Marine Reserve and is therefore ideally situated for research into the ecology of marine life in Hong Kong.

The primary function of SWIMS is to provide a first class research environment for marine scientists and, especially, postgraduate students. As such, it has a wide range of field and laboratory facilities including an image analysis suite, an analytical laboratory, flow-through seawater aquarium, a reference library and a museum. SWIMS also has dedicated research boats and is fully equipped for dive (SCUBA) operations. Most importantly, as it is located within the Cape d’Aguilar Marine Reserve, researchers have immediate access to many shore types, subtidal habitats and the South China Sea for their field studies. SWIMS also encourages collaboration between Hong Kong marine scientists and overseas visitors through seminars, exchange visits and scholarship schemes. In 2003, SWIMS facilities were further improved with the addition of a new seawater system and aquarium, and the refurbishment of the main laboratories, making SWIMS the most modern marine research facility in Hong Kong.

Accommodation for postgraduate students and overseas visitors is available in self-contained study bedrooms located in two residential blocks on the cliffs which overlook the laboratory and the outlying islands of the southern Hong Kong coast. Students interested in studying at SWIMS should contact the Honorary Director on 2809 2179. Further details about SWIMS can be found at http://www.hku.hk/swims.