TWENTY-EIGHT expatriate civil servants are sailing home on board the luxury liner Canberra on March 4 despite uncertainty over the future of the retirement perk.
The year's take-up rate is the highest for the past five years. In 1989 and 1990, the tally was 15. The number rose to 17 in 1991 and to 23 last year.
The total cost of the trip this year is estimated at $3.4 million, with the 28 officers being joined by 29 immediate family members.
Although the Government remained tight-lipped on who would join the cruise this year, it is understood that among the big names taking up the perk is retiring appeal court judge Sir Derek Cons.
The second most senior judge in Hongkong, Sir Derek, 64, said he was looking forward to the cruise.
''After 38 years [of service in Hongkong], I deserve it,'' he said.