Many people travel to Hualien to experience whale watching by boat, but inclement weather due to Typhoon Doksuri is currently causing dangerous conditions.
Typhoon Doksuri has begun to affect the east coast of central Taiwan. Early Tuesday morning, whale watching tours were still operational, with sightseers enjoying the activity on their Hualien itinerary.
One passenger confirms that her experience on the tour vessel was not affected by the incoming storm. Morning tour participants happily disembarked after their journey. However, almost all tours past noon on Tuesday have been canceled, with boat owners bringing their crafts into the safety of the harbor.
One operator says he has shut down for the day because he is worried that the rough wave conditions will make passengers sick.
Fishing vessels are also docked and secured in preparation for the typhoon, as fisherfolk are experienced in weather and ocean behavior. The more expensive larger boats have fenders on the fiberglass hulls, preventing contact between crafts or land.
Waves in the region are currently as high as three meters. The coast guard warns the public to be wary of dangerous conditions and avoid visiting areas where the ocean poses safety risks until Typhoon Doksuri has passed.