By RK Shih/Staff
KAOHSIUNG — Cruise tourism is becoming a major economic driver for Kaohsiung, with the city welcoming 48 cruise calls last year and more than 71,000 passengers, according to the Kaohsiung Tourism Bureau. Mid- to large-sized cruise ships generate an estimated NT$7.5 million to NT$10 million in local spending per visit, prompting the city government to roll out new incentive programs to boost onshore consumption.
City officials estimate that with an average of 1,500 to 2,000 passengers per ship, and per-capita spending of about NT$5,000, each cruise arrival delivers a significant economic impact to local businesses. This year, 38 cruise calls are scheduled, with projections of 50,000 to 60,000 visitors.
To capitalize on the growing market, the city has introduced several incentives, including high-speed rail travel subsidies, night market vouchers, and multilingual tourism guides to encourage spending immediately after disembarkation.
(Photo: Star Cruises / 麗星郵輪)
Among the key initiatives is the “Kaohsiung Fun Pass,” which integrates MRT and light rail access with discounts at participating attractions and shops, giving independent travelers unlimited rides and exclusive deals across the city.
To accommodate international visitors, the Tourism Bureau has produced travel guides in six languages — Chinese, English, Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese, and Thai — available free at the port.
Star Cruises, celebrating its 30th anniversary, has expanded its themed cruise offerings under a “curated voyage” concept. Programs range from traditional glove puppetry performances to reggae-themed parties and concerts featuring artists such as Matzka and Julia Wu. Recent onboard performers included Golden Melody Award winner Shen Wen-cheng, who delivered a nine-song set during a January voyage.
Looking ahead, Star Cruises’ “2.0” expansion includes direct Keelung-to-Japan sailings launching August 2, featuring an eight-day itinerary visiting both Tokyo and Osaka — the only cruise route in Taiwan to offer this combination. Additional routes include six-day Japan-Korea itineraries and shorter Okinawa sailings.
City officials are also evaluating similar subsidy packages for the upcoming deployment of MSC Bellissima as a Kaohsiung homeport.
Source: China Times (中時新聞網)
