New Romantic Way to Enjoy the Guandu Sunset: Taiwan’s Only Inland River Cruise, the “Queen”

▲ The first 500-ton sightseeing cruise ship tailored for the Tamsui River, the “Grand River Romance Queen.” (Photo / Reporter Lee Yuk-kang, same below.)

Reporter Chen Hanyin / Taipei Reporting

The sunset over the Tamsui River is one of the must-visit attractions for many tourists coming to Taiwan. Besides strolling along the riverbank, taking a yacht to admire the sunset, or cycling along the embankment through the mangroves, what other new experiences are there? Taking a cruise might be a unique and refreshing travel option. Enjoy the sunset on the Tamsui River, sip wine, and savor delicious food in comfort, rekindling your love for the city’s laid-back charm and beauty.

▲ The Grand River Romance Queen can accommodate up to 345 people.

Grand River Romance QueenIt is the only inland river cruise ship in Taiwan, weighing 500 tons, measuring 40 meters in length and 10 meters in width. Its exterior is inspired by the paddle steamer Mark Twain from the story “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer,” and the dreamy all-white Queen sails majestically on the Tamsui River. The interior of the ship is designed in a retro European style, offering dining services, a small bar, and even live band performances.

▲ The romantic Guandu Bridge and the sunset riverbank scenery. (Photo / Reporter Chen Hanyin)

▲ The third-floor deck features an open-air bar space.

The Queen has three decks in total. The first floor connects to the second via a retro double-sided spiral staircase, reminiscent of old movie scenes. Additionally, the ship is filled with many romantic details, such as a retro European-style corridor, stained glass windows, and luxurious queen chairs. Even the ship’s staff are dressed in retro maid outfits, giving a sense of the Queen’s prestige and grandeur.

▲ The ship’s crew dressed in retro maid outfits.

▲ Gorgeous stained glass window paneled doors.

▲ A pure white corridor adorned with European-style lighting. (Photo / Reporter Chen Hanyin)

▲ Retro birdcage-shaped queen chairs.

Since the river cruise does not go out to sea, passengers hardly feel any rocking during the voyage, making it a great option for those prone to seasickness to enjoy the riverside scenery. The Grand River Romance Queen was officially refurbished in 2014. The entire sailing duration is about 1 to 1.5 hours. The ticket price includes the fare, a buffet dinner, and insurance. It is expected to open to individual passengers on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings next year, with only one departure per day. Those who wish to enjoy the romantic Guandu sunset aboard this cruise should make a reservation in advance.

▲ The ship offers an unlimited buffet dinner.

“Grand River Romance Queen”
Boarding Location: Guandu Pier, Beitou District, Taipei City
Phone: 02-27118887