The Sun Moon Lake ferry service has launched—explore the lake in a fun 360-degree experience by land, sea, and air!

Starting November 20, travelers to Sun Moon Lake will have more convenient and flexible options for boat tours. The Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area Administration has decided to introduce a scheduled ferry service, beginning a trial operation on November 20 and officially launching on December 18. A total of eight boat fleets and 53 yachts will participate. From 8:50 AM to 5:00 PM daily, ferries will run approximately every 15–30 minutes between Shuishe, Ita Thao, and Xuanguang docks. Once the Sun Moon Lake~Nine Tribes cable car opens, visitors will be able to explore the area in even more diverse ways—by land (including walking trails, cycling routes, and the lakeside bus), by sea (yacht cruises), and by air (cable car)—to rediscover the beauty of Sun Moon Lake from all three dimensions.

Notably, to make travel more convenient, taking a ferry is no longer restricted by the limitations of traditional package tours. The scheduled ferries operate with a published timetable, fares, and special offers from each fleet. Boats depart at fixed times, and trips are charged by section, allowing visitors to freely plan their own itineraries. For example, high-speed rail passengers getting off at Wuri Station can take the National Freeway No. 6 direct bus and disembark at the Sun Moon Lake Shuishe Visitor Center, then take the ferry from Shuishe Dock to check in at a homestay in Ita Thao on the opposite shore. Alternatively, take a short ferry ride to Xuanguang Dock, stroll along the Qinglong Mountain Trail to Cien Tower for a panoramic view of Sun Moon Lake, then stop by Xuanzang Temple for a cup of Sun Moon Lake black tea. After choosing a suitable time, take another ferry back to Shuishe for a meal. Cyclists who are short on time or energy can also start from Shuishe, cycle halfway around the lake to Ita Thao or Xuanzang Temple for a short break, and then take the ferry back to Shuishe with their bikes. Bicycle riders enjoy a half-price fare.

During the trial period, the eight fleets are jointly offering an introductory ferry fare: NT$100 for adults and NT$50 for children, which includes three ferry rides, allowing you to explore Sun Moon Lake with ease. After the trial period, standard fares will apply. The National Scenic Area Administration also reminds passengers planning to take the ferry that they should purchase tickets only at official ticket booths, and avoid buying from unidentified individuals on the street, in order to ensure their rights and travel quality.