Taiwan’s cruise tourism sector is on the verge of a significant recovery, as the Taiwan International Ports Corporation (TIPC) projects a resurgence in cruise ship visitors. After facing severe disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the industry is expected to reach 85.8% of pre-pandemic visitor levels this year and an impressive 92.3% next year. This optimistic outlook comes alongside a series of incentives aimed at attracting more cruise operators to Taiwanese ports, particularly Kaohsiung, which is poised to become a key home port for international cruises.

Incentives to Boost Cruise Tourism

At the recent Taiwan Cruise Forum, TIPC announced a range of incentives designed to encourage cruise operators to make port calls in Taiwan. One of the most significant offers is a full waiver of the passenger service charge for cruise ships that operate three or more voyages from Kaohsiung next year. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to stimulate the cruise industry and ensure that the recovery from the pandemic is sustainable.

TIPC estimates that the number of cruise ship port calls could reach 418 this year, which is about 62.3% of the levels seen in 2019. Furthermore, the number of cruise visitors is expected to hit 905,302, representing 85.8% of pre-COVID levels. Looking ahead, TIPC anticipates that port calls could exceed 620 next year, with approximately 920,000 cruise travelers expected to arrive, marking 88% of the pre-pandemic figures. These projections are based on current notifications received from cruise operators, indicating a strong interest in Taiwan as a cruise destination.

TIPC President Wang Chin-jung emphasized the importance of maintaining growth momentum in the cruise sector. He stated that the company aims to avoid a temporary recovery and instead foster long-term growth. To achieve this, TIPC has rolled out a preferential scheme for international cruises that meet specific criteria, including waiving dockage fees for ships that have not called at certain ports since March 2012.

Future Prospects for Taiwan’s Cruise Industry

The incentives offered by TIPC extend beyond the immediate future, with plans already in place for 2026. While the dockage fee waiver will not apply to the Port of Taipei, other ports such as Suao, Taichung, and Anping will offer full waivers for passenger service charges. Additionally, discounts will be available for cruise ships making multiple port calls in Keelung and Kaohsiung.

Wang noted that if the current incentive scheme proves effective in boosting cruise tourism, further preferential measures could be introduced in 2026. The estimated cost of these incentives is around NT$300 million, but Wang believes that the investment will yield significant benefits for the nation. For example, Resorts World One, a cruise ship that operated 32 voyages from Keelung this year, purchased approximately NT$200 million worth of agricultural products from Taiwan to supply its onboard needs.

As Taiwan’s cruise industry prepares for a robust recovery, the combination of strategic incentives and a growing interest from international cruise operators positions the nation as an attractive destination for cruise tourism. With the right support and continued momentum, Taiwan could reclaim its status as a key player in the global cruise market.