HONG KONG, People’s Republic of China   — Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and Amphibious Squadron 11 arrived in Hong Kong for a port visit Nov. 16.

Nearly 2,500 Marines and Sailors, embarked aboard the USS Essex (LHD 2) and USS Denver (LPD 9) have an opportunity to explore the famous city with a variety of tours and hosted dinners with locals.

“The Marines are really looking forward to the visit and are planning to take full advantage of the cultural experience, said Col. Andrew MacMannis, 31st MEU commanding officer. "This is a beautiful city to enjoy a port visit."

The ship’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation division has provided a variety of tours, and opportunities to enjoy Hong Kong, for service members. The various trips include visits to Disneyland Hong Kong, Lantau Island Monastery and a trip showcasing the culture and history of the city.

According to the commanding officer of the Philippine Marine Corps’ boat company, the use of CRRCs is a fairly new for their Corps and they are still developing their own tactics and techniques.

Certified coxswains from Company B taught the class, which included the use of hand and arm signals to communicate as well as boat formations used during transit and beach assaults.