By Li Xinyi, compiled and reported
In addition to Hualien and Taitung, whale and dolphin watching in the Northeast Coast is also well-developed. Boat operators first set out to track the movements of marine life and then notify the whale-watching boats, resulting in a high probability of sightings. It’s also a more convenient choice for northern residents. The “Yilan County Whale Watching Promotion Association” is holding a Guishan Island Whale and Dolphin Ecotourism event from April 22 to May 20. The event collaborates with recreational fishing boats affiliated with Toucheng District Fishermen's Association to launch the “All Eyes on Guishan” package, which includes whale watching, island circling, and a landing on Guishan Island — all for just NT$1,200 (original price NT$1,600).
Whale and dolphin watching in the Northeast Coast begins with local fishing boats setting out first and providing information on marine life sightings, so visitors have a high chance of seeing dolphins. (Photo provided by Northeast Coast & Yilan Coast National Scenic Area Administration)
The waters around Guishan Island are one of the most popular spots in the Northeast Coast and Yilan region. In particular, landing on Guishan Island has always been subject to visitor limits, helping preserve the island’s natural and pristine landscape. The Guishan Island tour package also includes a whale and dolphin watching trip around the surrounding waters, making it perfect for family trips. There are as many as 17 species of whales and dolphins in the waters around Guishan Island, with considerable numbers, mainly including spinner dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, spotted dolphins, and false killer whales. The best time for whale and dolphin watching is approximately from April to the end of September.
Guishan Island has always had visitor limits, helping to preserve its pristine natural scenery. (Photo provided by Northeast Coast & Yilan Coast National Scenic Area Administration)
To support the event, local recreational fishing boat operators are offering special discounted experience packages. These include a 3-in-1 combo of whale watching, island circling, and landing on the island for just NT$1,200 per person; a 2-in-1 combo of whale watching and island circling for NT$700 per person (original price NT$1,200); an 800 NT$ 3-in-1 combo for children aged 3–12; a 500 NT$ 2-in-1 combo for the same age group; and only a NT$300 insurance fee for children under 3. Additionally, all whale-watching boats are staffed with professional guides who provide themed commentary. Participants will also receive one “Lanyang Museum admission ticket” provided by the Yilan County Whale Watching Promotion Association and one “premium souvenir” offered by the Northeast Coast & Yilan Coast National Scenic Area Administration. Guishan Island whale watching tours require advance booking. For details, contact the Whale Watching Promotion Association at 03-977-0606 or 03-977-0909.
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