Taiwan’s Cruise Terminal Expansion: A Look at Ongoing Growth Initiatives

Taiwan’s cruise industry is experiencing significant growth, signaling a resurgence in its market. According to projections by the Taiwan International Ports Corporation (TIPC), cruise passenger numbers are expected to rise by 8% compared to 2019, indicating a successful implementation of the country’s dual-home-port strategy. This strategy has enhanced itinerary options and operational efficiency at major terminals.

By the end of 2025, Taiwan anticipates handling approximately 1.135 million cruise passengers, an increase from 1.055 million in 2019. The forecast includes 567 calls from international cruise ships, reflecting a robust recovery relative to global figures post-pandemic. This upswing is attributed to a wider array of itineraries and improvements in port facilities, particularly at notable ports like Keelung and Kaohsiung, making these locations more appealing to cruise operators.

The increasing number of foreign passengers marks a notable trend. In 2019, international visitors made up 31% of cruise arrivals, while this figure had increased to 35% by 2024, reaching 38% by October 2025, equating to around 360,000 foreign travelers. This growth is attributed to a rising number of transit passengers and the effectiveness of the dual-home-port model, where cruise ships embark and disembark at two different ports within Taiwan.

A key example of this model is the MSC Bellissima, which operates seasonally between Taiwan and Japan, facilitating travel for Taiwanese passengers abroad and drawing in Japanese tourists to Taiwan. This fosters a balanced flow in tourism, enhancing Taiwan’s competitive edge in the Asian cruise sector.

Taiwan’s attractiveness to international cruise lines is bolstered by a diverse range of shore excursions paired with convenient port access. Tourists can easily experience urban settings in Taipei alongside natural wonders like Taroko Gorge, establishing Taiwan as a flexible port of call. Recent upgrades in cruise terminal facilities also support efficient ship turnaround, aligning with the dual-home-port concept.

Looking ahead to 2026, TIPC forecasts approximately 1.045 million passengers and 593 cruise calls. While these figures represent a slight decline from 2025, they reflect a gradual decrease in home-port operations rather than an overall fall in demand. The interest from cruise lines for including Taiwan in itineraries remains high, bolstered by strong shore-excursion options and improved port infrastructure.

Taiwan’s cruise sector mirrors the broader growth of cruise tourism across Asia, characterized by rising demand and significant investments in infrastructure. With increasing foreign arrivals and strengthened collaborations with international cruise lines, Taiwan is affirmatively establishing itself as a central hub for East Asian cruise activities.

The outlook for Taiwan’s cruise industry remains promising. As home-port operations continue to expand and customized cruising options evolve, Taiwan is set to assert itself in the global cruise tourism landscape while enhancing its regional prominence.

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