Taiwan Cruises

Unveil the Wonders of Taiwan with Cruise1st

Taiwan is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture just waiting to be explored! This island is famous for its lush mountains, bustling night markets, and delicious street food—think bubble tea and stinky tofu! Did you know that Taiwan is home to the world’s tallest building, Taipei 101? A cruise to Taiwan offers the perfect opportunity to soak in diverse landscapes and immerse yourself in the unique fusion of traditional and modern life. Whether you’re seeking serene temples, stunning coastal views, or exhilarating hikes, Taiwan has it all!

Major Cruise Lines with Itineraries to Taiwan

• Norwegian Cruise Line: With a fleet of 20 ships, Norwegian Cruise Line features 3 ships sailing to Taiwan—most notably, Norwegian Spirit and Norwegian Sky. These ships offer a lively onboard experience, complete with exceptional entertainment and dining options. Cruises most often depart from popular ports such as Keelung (Taipei) or Tokyo, making for a seamless start to your adventure!
• Princess Cruises: This line boasts a fleet of 17, with 2 ships—Diamond Princess and Discovery Princess—anchoring in Taiwan. Known for their top-notch service and elegant onboard amenities, these ships create a fantastic cruising experience. Departures primarily occur from Yokohama (Tokyo) or Singapore, putting you on the path to discover Taiwan's extraordinary coastlines!
• MSC Cruises: With a fleet of 23, MSC has 2 ships visiting Taiwan, namely MSC Bellissima and MSC Magnifica. Pumpkin-spice latte lovers will appreciate the variety of in-ship dining options along with the family-friendly atmosphere these ships provide. Cruises most often set sail from Keelung (Taipei) or Naha, making access to Taiwan smooth and enjoyable.
• Holland America Line: Featuring 11 ships, Holland America has 2 making stops in Taiwan, with Westerdam and Noordam leading the way. Known for their focus on local culture and immersive entertainment, these ships offer a memorable cruising experience. Most departures take place from Hong Kong or Singapore, preparing you for an incredible adventure!
• Royal Caribbean Cruises: With a massive fleet of 29 ships, Royal Caribbean has 4 cruising to Taiwan, including Ovation of the Seas and Spectrum of the Seas. These ships are famous for their vibrant atmosphere and engaging activities, catering to every traveller's taste. Departures predominantly take place from Hong Kong and Yokohama (Tokyo), providing great opportunities to explore vibrant ports before arriving in Taiwan.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to Taiwan

• Oceania Cruises: This line features a fleet of 8, with 4 ships visiting Taiwan. Key vessels include Riviera and Regatta, known for their culinary expertise and destination-focused experiences at every port. Oceania Cruises often departs from Singapore or Hong Kong, making it easy to begin your journey to Taiwan.
• Seabourn: With a fleet size of 6, Seabourn has 3 ships offering itineraries that include Taiwan, namely Seabourn Quest and Seabourn Encore. Recognized for their luxury and personalized service, Seabourn provides an intimate cruising experience. You can set sail from major ports, with departures commonly occurring from Sydney or Hong Kong.
• Azamara Cruises: This small-ship line has a fleet of 4, featuring 2 vessels, Azamara Pursuit and Azamara Onward, that visit Taiwan. They specialize in immersive destination experiences, allowing you to explore ports in depth. Departures mostly occur from Singapore or Kobe, ensuring smooth transitions to your Taiwan adventures.
• Silversea: With a fleet of 12, Silversea operates 3 ships that sail to Taiwan, notably Silver Whisper and Silver Nova. Renowned for their all-inclusive luxurious offerings, Silversea ensures an exquisite travel experience. Departures generally occur from Melbourne or Hong Kong, setting you on a path to Taiwan with style and comfort.

Top Taiwanese Harbours to Explore

• Keelung (Taipei): As the closest port to Taipei, Keelung is a bustling city with an array of attractions. Cruise passengers can visit the famous Night Market, where you can indulge in local delicacies like scallion pancakes and bubble tea. Don’t forget to check out the nearby scenic spots like the Yehliu Geopark, known for its unique coastal rock formations!
• Kaohsiung: This vibrant harbor city is famous for its lively night markets and cultural sites, such as the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum. Visitors can enjoy a stroll along the Love River or take a ferry to Cijin Island to bask in the sun or sample fresh seafood. With numerous parks and open spaces available, there's plenty of outdoor fun for everyone.
• Hualien: Hualien is a gateway to the breathtaking Taroko National Park, where visitors can experience stunning gorges, lush forests, and towering cliffs. Cruise passengers can enjoy hiking opportunities or simply revel in the city's beautiful coastal scenery. Make sure to visit the Hualien Night Market as well, featuring local snacks and crafts!
• Taipei: While not directly a cruise port, Taipei is a hub that cruise passengers can easily access from Keelung. Take a trip to iconic landmarks like Taipei 101 or the National Palace Museum, and don't miss an opportunity to sample the local food at vibrant night markets.
• Magong (Makung): Located in the Penghu Islands, Magong is known for its picturesque coastlines and rich history. Visitors can explore the stunning beaches, ancient temples, and local shops. Check out the famous Penghu Great Bridge for picture-perfect views. Don’t forget to sample the fresh seafood that this region is famous for!

Top Ports Often Visited Before or After Taiwan

• Athens, Greece: Possibly the most famous city for history lovers, Athens is a must-visit for its stunning ancient ruins and vibrant culture. Explore the Acropolis, stroll through Plaka, or enjoy some authentic Greek cuisine at a local taverna.
• Dubrovnik, Croatia: Known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," Dubrovnik features stunning medieval architecture and beautiful coastal views. Don't miss wandering the historic old town and checking out the famous city walls!
• Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy: The port city for Rome, Civitavecchia offers passengers easy access to ancient history. Explore the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the beautiful local shops and restaurants in Rome—definitely part of your cruise adventure!
• Istanbul, Turkey: Known for its vibrant markets and rich cultural history, Istanbul welcomes cruise passengers with stunning sights. Visit the Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar while indulging in delicious Turkish cuisine.
• Kotor, Montenegro: A center of historical intrigue, Kotor offers stunning landscapes and a quaint old town full of charm. Enjoy hiking the fortress, wandering through ancient streets, and enjoying local food as you take in the stunning scenery.

Best Times to Cruise to Taiwan

Considering a visit to Taiwan? There are fantastic times to explore! From March to May, enjoy comfortable temperatures averaging 15-25°C, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. June to August can get hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25-35°C; however, this period also offers stunning tropical scenery. September to November presents a pleasant climate with temperatures tapering down to a friendly 15-28°C and gorgeous fall foliage—a great time for hikes and sightseeing!

Cost Overview for Cruises to Taiwan

Your week-long cruise to Taiwan typically costs between $1,200 and $2,000 AUD, and for two weeks, expect to pay around $2,500 to $4,000 AUD. If you prefer a luxury experience, anticipate prices starting from $4,500 AUD for a week-long cruise, and possibly $9,000 AUD for two weeks. Food and beverages on cruise ships are generally included; however, if you explore ashore, budget around $15-$40 AUD for meals and expect drinks to cost about $8-$15 AUD in local establishments.

Alternative Regions Worth Considering

If you're planning a cruise to Taiwan, consider these alternative regions:

• Japan: Known for its unique blend of tradition and modernity, Japan offers stunning landscapes, exquisite cuisine, and rich history. Cities like Kyoto and Tokyo provide experiences that celebrate both the ancient and contemporary.
• South Korea: From the bustling streets of Seoul to the scenic beauty of Jeju Island, South Korea offers exciting cultural experiences, delicious food, and remarkable history that travellers will love.
• Hong Kong: A vibrant fusion of East and West, Hong Kong is filled with great shopping, delectable cuisine, and stunning views from Victoria Peak. It's a lively hub with experiences for every traveller!
• Philippines: With its stunning beaches, lush islands, and friendly locals, the Philippines is perfect for those looking for a tropical escape filled with beautiful landscapes and rich culture.
• Vietnam: Offering a rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and delicious cuisine, Vietnam is perfect for adventurous travellers who want to soak in local culture and experience its vibrant cities and serene countryside.

Ready to experience the wonders of Taiwan? Let Cruise1st help you navigate your way to this exceptional destination, where memories await to be made!