TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — A new sightseeing passenger ferry service between Tainan and Penghu will launch on July 8, offering a more convenient and scenic travel option between two of Taiwan’s most popular tourist destinations.

The route will operate two round-trip sailings per week, departing every Tuesday and Friday. Each ferry can accommodate up to 149 passengers, with a travel time of approximately 2.5 hours, according to the Tainan City Government.

Tainan Mayor Huang Wei-che (黃偉哲) said Thursday the new route is part of efforts to promote sustainable marine tourism and strengthen regional connectivity. He highlighted Tainan’s status as Taiwan’s cultural capital and culinary hub, alongside Penghu’s appeal for its pristine island landscapes and summer fireworks festival.

Penghu’s peak travel season runs from April to October, when warm weather draws visitors for outdoor and water-based activities. July and August see the highest travel demand, often leading to limited flight availability and higher ticket prices.

Tainan Tourism Bureau Director Lin Kuo-hua (林國華) said that while Tainan and Penghu have long maintained strong tourism ties, constrained flight capacity during holidays and peak seasons has complicated travel planning. The new ferry service is intended to ease these constraints and provide a reliable alternative.

The city government also plans to partner with travel agencies to offer package tours that encourage Penghu residents to visit Tainan and entice Penghu-bound travelers to extend their trip with an overnight stay in the city. Officials hope this approach will boost overnight stays, support the ferry route’s long-term viability, and further drive regional tourism growth.

To promote the launch, tickets will be available at a discounted fare of NT$999 (US$34) for a limited time, reduced from the standard NT$1,500.