REQ Harbin SH-5's Qingdao

[SquAdmin]

Looking for advice about spotting and (if possible) photographing the PLANAF SH-5 flying boats which are based at Qingdao. Apparently they can be spotted from the ferry between Qingdao and Huangdao. What are the chances of seeing them and is it possible to take pictures from the boat without getting into any trouble? Also, did anyone ever witness them operating in the water around the base?

[CJ]

Patrick, they could be seen and photographed when I did the ferry xing 2,5 years ago. The outward ferry goes closest to the base/ramp and I probably used 300 mm analogue. Going back a couple of hours later the ferry took a more westerly course, so you need a few more mm.
Actual photography depends on how they are parked. I had one on the LH side of the ramp and 2 on the RH side, with 1 behind the other. Makes for a nice scenery though... Other passengers didn't mind me using the big lens; kept a bit of a low profile though. You never know. Didn't see them flying or in the water.

While you're in town you should check out the naval museum as well. Funny to see the old German buildings in the center too.

[SquAdmin]

Thanks CJ!