The first cruise ship based in Keelung, the "Oriental Dragon," sets sail as a floating palace

By MOOK Travel Life Chen Guanxin, compiled and reported

 

The domestic cruise tourism market is becoming increasingly vibrant, and Keelung Port is also developing toward becoming Taiwan's only cruise home port. Hong Kong-based Shoulong International has introduced its cruise ship "Oriental Dragon" to the Taiwanese market, with Keelung Port as its home port. It offers two sailings per week between Keelung and Okinawa, making it the first cruise ship to be based in Taiwan. In addition, Wang Zhenhong, Director of the Transportation and Tourism Division of Keelung City Government, stated that last year approximately 460,000 tourists arrived in Keelung by cruise ship, and this year the number is expected to grow to 500,000, which will boost the development of tourism around Keelung.

Registered in Panama, the Oriental Dragon (MV ORIENTAL DRAGON) has a length of 171.69 meters, a total displacement of 18,455 tons, and can accommodate 500 passengers. With over 200 cabins, the ship combines traditional Chinese palace aesthetics with modern Western elements, featuring marble and antique wood to present a rich oriental style with contemporary flair. For dining, the ship offers a buffet restaurant "Jin Hui Restaurant" that can accommodate over 200 people, serving a variety of international cuisines including Chinese, Western, Italian, and Southeast Asian flavors. There is also a 24-hour MINI restaurant, allowing guests to enjoy gourmet meals at any time.

In terms of itineraries, the Oriental Dragon currently offers 4-day/3-night and 3-day/2-night packages. On the 4-day/3-night trip, the ship departs from Keelung Port, and upon arrival in Okinawa, passengers can choose optional paid shore excursions such as visiting Okinawa Kingdom Village Gyokusendo Cave or Shuri Castle to explore the Ryukyu Dynasty civilization. During the voyage, guests can use onboard facilities such as the swimming pool, fitness center, and simulated golf course. There are also leisure and entertainment venues such as the "T barrel Lounge" red wine bar, "Kang She" wellness SPA, and "Le Fu" KTV, allowing travelers to stretch their legs, enjoy themselves, and sing their hearts out on the vast ocean. In addition, the ship will feature performances including face-changing acts, magic shows, and performances by Taiwanese artist groups, offering passengers a unique travel experience different from land-based trips.