Enjoy the sea view affordably – cross-strait ferry travel is all the rage

▲ Traveling to Mainland China by ship can be very affordable. Pictured is the “COSCO STAR,” a ferry that travels between Taiwan and Xiamen. (Photo / Reporter Chen Ziying)

Reported by reporters Chen Ziying and Huang Shiyuan, connecting from Xiamen and Pingtan

 Most people choose to fly when traveling abroad because it’s fast and time-saving; however, taking a passenger ship is also an economical option, especially for traveling to Mainland China, which is just across the Taiwan Strait. Experiencing the vastness of sailing on the open sea, and even catching a breathtaking sunrise at night, are unique sensations only possible on a ship. Currently, the main ferries that regularly travel between the two sides are the “COSCO STAR” and the “SEA HORIZON.” The passenger vessel “MIN DONG STAR,” which sails across the strait, is still in the process of applying for sailing rights. The “LINA,” which recently sparked a blue highway craze in Hualien and Taitung, also plans to sail between the two sides. In the future, travelers will have even more transportation options when visiting Mainland China.

The COSCO STAR, which docks at Keelung Port, weighs 27,000 tons. Originally sailing between Japan and South Korea, it was purchased by the COSCO Group in 2009 and began operating routes between Xiamen–Keelung and Xiamen–Taichung. Thanks to its large tonnage and equipment such as anti-rolling fins, the COSCO STAR offers unexpectedly comfortable and smooth rides.

As soon as you step onto the white-hulled ship, you’ll see the spacious lobby and duty-free shops of the COSCO STAR. Similar to the class concept on airplanes, the COSCO STAR also has “economy, business, and first class,” but its cabins total 683 berths, including standard rooms, deluxe rooms, VIP suites, and presidential suites, offering various rest options for different types of passengers. The ship also features a dining hall that can accommodate 260 people, as well as spacious cafes, bars, chess and card rooms, KTV, and other facilities, ensuring passengers have plenty of entertainment options during their voyage.

 
▲ Though primarily a transport vessel, the COSCO STAR is equipped with comfortable cafes, karaoke, and other entertainment facilities. (Photo / Reporter Chen Ziying)

The COSCO STAR operates on a “depart at night, arrive in the morning” schedule, allowing passengers to rest overnight on board and arrive in Xiamen the next morning to begin their travels. In terms of ticket prices, standard berths range from NT$3,500 to NT$4,000 (excluding fuel surcharges), making it a very affordable choice for many young people and backpackers.

Currently, the COSCO STAR operates routes between Xiamen–Keelung and Xiamen–Taichung, departing from Keelung Port at 7:00 PM every Sunday and from Taichung Port at 9:00 PM every Wednesday. Starting September 30, the COSCO STAR will also launch its first voyage to Kaohsiung.

 
▲ In addition to standard berths, the COSCO STAR also offers luxurious presidential suites, allowing passengers to choose a comfortable night on board. (Photo / Reporter Chen Ziying)


▲ The young and friendly “crew members” provide guests with a homely experience. (Photo / Reporter Chen Ziying)

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