The Maritime and Port Bureau has unveiled plans for upcoming changes in transportation to Taiwan's outlying islands. Changes include the introduction of island hopping tours, upgrades to vessels, and new boarding requirements for passengers.
Following the successful introduction of two new ferries, the New Taima and The Penghu last year, the bureau, in cooperation with the Tourism Administration is gearing up to launch island hopping tours from June to September this year.
New vessels are also expected to launch this summer improving inter-island travel. In addition, older vessels operating between Taitung, Orchid Island, and Green Island will undergo phased replacements until 2026.
Maritime and Port Bureau Director Yeh Hsieh-lung (葉協隆) says passengers must also prepare for significant changes. He says in the future, passengers boarding ferries will be required to undergo identity verification similar to air travel, in compliance with maritime laws.