As strangers in an often strange land, one thing we can all applaud is the diversification of nightlife in terms of music and venues. One major move on the diversity front is the recent re-branding of The Boat, the often underappreciated vessel moored on the Liangma River in north Sanlitun, as a gay club

“Beijing has now, not one, but two, gay clubs,” writes Ryan Dutcher on his blog at Gayographic.cn. “The Boat . . used to be the after-hours destination for those drunk or otherwise, who found that White Rabbit closes too early, (but it has) rebranded itself as a new gay party place.”

Destination at Gongti West Gate was, until now, the capital’s only out and proud gay club, with irregular gay nights held at a handful of other nightspots, including White Rabbit, Yin Bar and Lantung.

“We want to give the gay community another choice for music, dancing and socializing,” explains new Boat manager Alvin Chang. “In the past, Beijing nightlife options for gay clubbers have been limited, and we think it’s time to create a new space for the gay community to unwind and relax.”

Alvin has years of experience running gay clubs in his hometown of Taipei, where his club Fresh became the hotspot for the city’s LBGT scene. “In Taiwan, there are many more options for gay clubbers, and we’re happy to be part of the expansion of this part of Beijing nightlife,” he adds.

The change in direction for The Boat also includes a full cosmetic and musical makeover, according to Alvin. “We’re redesigning part of the club to feel like a Bali-style villa, and the music will be a little more mainstream than before, focusing on pop-house, soulful house and other gay-friendly sounds.”

While few in number, Beijing’s gay clubs add another angle to clubber’s choices. With experienced management brought from across the Taiwan Strait to make sure The Boat sails a steady course, gay clubbers can expect something special.

By Dan Stephenson

DETAILS
The Boat Add: 8 Liangmahe South Rd. (West of Sanlitun North St.), Sanlitun, 三里屯北街西边, 亮马河南路 8号
Tel: 6460-5512
Web: www.myspace.com/theboatbeijing