2016 Sails from Keelung: Luxury Cruise Golden Princess Voyage 27 Explores Japan, Korea & China

▲ The Princess Cruises Golden Princess. (Photo / Provided by Princess Cruises)

Reported by Chen Ruizhong / Taipei

In 2016, Princess Cruises will base the Golden Princess at Keelung Port, offering Taiwan-departing itineraries ranging from 3 to 8 days. A total of 27 sailings are planned, amounting to 101 days in port — setting a new record for the longest consecutive presence in Taiwan — with projected passenger numbers exceeding 70,000.

The Golden Princess sailing to Taiwan this year underwent a full refurbishment in 2015. It has a gross tonnage of 108,000 tons, measures 289.6 meters in length, and can accommodate up to 2,760 passengers. In the past, it primarily operated in Central and South America as well as New Zealand and Australia. For the 2016 season, in addition to short 3–5 day itineraries to destinations such as Okinawa, Princess Cruises is launching its first-ever 6–7 day cruises spanning Japan, Korea, and China, as well as an 8 day itinerary covering four Japanese regions: Ryukyu, Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu. Prices start from NT$29,900 to NT$60,900. The cruises are being sold by eight travel agencies, including Lion Travel, Southeast Travel, and Poya Travel. Industry insiders note that cruise fares generally include onboard meals, entertainment, and gratuities, making them a cost-effective choice.

▲ The Golden Princess was renovated in 2015 and measures 289.6 meters in length.

Recognizing Taiwan’s growing cruise tourism market, Princess Cruises Global President Jan Swartz visited Taiwan to hold a press conference. Swartz shared that in January, Princess Cruises invested USD 450 million in its global “The Come Back New Promise” revitalization program. The line has also collaborated with TLC’s celebrity chef Curtis Stone to create special menus, and will host world culture festivals on board to bring a festive party vibe to travelers.

▲ (From left) Princess Cruises Global President Jan Swartz and Taiwan Branch Marketing Director Hsu Ching-chi. (Photo / Taken by Reporter Chen Ruizhong)

According to statistics from the Taiwan International Ports Corporation, in 2015 there were a total of 610 international cruise ship calls at Taiwanese ports, marking a 20% year-on-year increase compared to 2014. Looking ahead to 2016, the total number of Taiwanese outbound cruise passengers is expected to exceed 250,000. Princess Cruises Taiwan Branch Marketing Director Hsu Ching-chi noted that the cruise line has set up duty-free shops on board, along with meals and entertainment tailored to Taiwanese preferences, making it an appealing experience for local travelers. Beyond the senior demographic, many passengers have also started choosing cruises for family trips or honeymoons, with an overall repeat customer rate exceeding 30%. Travel agents also mentioned that short itineraries are currently the bestsellers, with occupancy rates above 80%, while longer voyages are also gaining popularity.