Taiwan unveils sky lantern pavilion at Seatrade Cruise Global

An exclusive VIP reception took place after the inauguration of the pavilion – designed in the likeness of a Taiwanese sky lantern – attended by senior officials from TTA, TIPC, and MPB. Cruise line representatives, industry associations and port authorities from adjacent countries were also present.  

Taiwan aimed to promote its ports at Seatrade Cruise Global 2024, particularly Keelung and Kaohsiung as home ports. 

Seatrade Cruise Global kicked off on April 8 at the Miami Beach Convention Center and concludes today. 

Amis tribe performance 

As part of the festivities there was a speech by TTA deputy director general, Trust Hsin-Jen Lin, a performance by dancers from Taiwan’s indigenous Amis tribe, a presentation on Taiwan’s cruising prospects, a fusion of Taiwanese and Western snacks, and a sky lantern launching ceremony. Taiwan's officials and international industry leaders inscribed their hopes for Taiwan’s cruise sector on an inflatable lantern, and symbolically launched it into the exhibition hall. 

Incentives for cruise lines 

‘Prior to the pandemic, Taiwan was the second largest source market for cruise passengers in Asia,’ explained Lin. ‘In 2019, over a million passengers embarked on cruises from Taiwan, with over 600 cruises calling in Taiwan or using it as a home port, generating an economic value of approximately $1b. 

‘As of 2024, Taiwan’s cruise industry has recovered to around 70% of the pre-pandemic levels. Taiwan Tourism Administration, Taiwan International Ports Corporation and the Maritime and Port Bureau have all introduced incentives to invite more cruise ships to call at Taiwan or use Taiwan as a home port.’