Passengers travelling by ferry off of Taiwan’s east coast on Monday described the journey as a "pirate ship ride" due to rough seas that led to a terrifying voyage.
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Ferry services to Green Island were completely suspended on Monday due to severe sea conditions off eastern Taiwan, forcing crowds to rush back to the mainland on Sunday to avoid being stranded. Passengers travelling to Orchid Island described terrifying voyages with waves higher than the ships themselves, massive swells causing widespread seasickness, and conditions resembling a "pirate ship ride."
The Central Weather Administration attributed the rough seas to strong southwestern winds creating downdrafts on Taiwan's eastern coast. Forecasts indicate winds reached Force 7 levels on the Beaufort scale Monday, with potential Force 8 gusts and waves up to 3 meters high. One passenger described seeing the sea level nearly reach the glass while sitting by the ship’s second-floor window.
Many reported severe vomiting throughout the vessels, with waves constantly crashing against cabin windows. Local residents confirmed similar conditions persisted across multiple sailing days, creating unusually dangerous travel conditions for a non-typhoon period. The situation even affected underwater activities, resulting in divers being swept away by strong currents, though they were safely rescued.
The disruption highlighted how eastern Taiwan's offshore areas can experience extreme weather without tropical storm systems, serving as a good reminder to always mind conditions no matter the season.