Dolphin and Whale Watching in Taiwan 2024

The best time for whale watching in Taiwan is between April and November when the waves are calmer and whales more plentiful. The popular places for whale-watching tours in Taiwan include the Xingang and Fugang ports of Taitung, Hualien Harbor, and the Wushi Harbor of Yilan.

Whales and Dolphins in Taiwan

There are nearly 90 species of whales and dolphins worldwide, and Taiwan is home to 31 of them, accounting for over one-third of the global total. The east coast, where more than 20 different species reside, is the primary area for whale and dolphin sightings, with an impressive 80 to 90 percent chance of spotting these marine animals. Commonly seen species include Risso's dolphins, spinner dolphins, pantropical spotted dolphins, Fraser's dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins. With a bit of luck, visitors may also catch sight of larger species, such as killer whales, sperm whales, pilot whales, and false killer whales.

Whales Season in Taiwan

The peak season for whale watching in Taiwan is from May to September annually. The waters of the east coast of Taiwan are full of migratory fish which make a perfect food for whales and dolphins. Dolphins are more predictable; boating companies often set sail at 3 am to check the areas where dolphins often congregate. Whales are very hard to predict. So you have to be ready for just dolphin watching and hope you get lucky enough to see some whales.

Popular Locations

Taitung

Xingang and Fugang ports in Taitung, along with Chenggong Harbor, are among the top whale-watching destinations. Located at the northern tip of Taitung County, Chenggong Fishing Harbor is the largest and best-equipped in the region. Nearby scenic attractions include Sanxiantai, Stone Umbrella, and the Eight Immortals Cave. The yacht wharf at Chenggong is one of the key departure points for whale-watching tours.

Hualien Harbor

Hualien Harbor, also known as Hualien Port, is a major seaport on the eastern coast of Taiwan in Hualien County. Beyond its industrial functions, the harbor is also a popular destination for tourists due to its scenic coastal views and recreational offerings, including whale-watching tours.

Wushi Harbor

Wushi Harbor, nestled on Taiwan's east coast, is a surfer's paradise and the primary port connecting the mainland to Guishan Island. It's also a popular starting point for whale-watching tours. Visitors are often delighted by playful dolphins appearing from all directions. Commonly spotted species include bottlenose dolphins, spinner dolphins, pygmy killer whales, and sperm whales.

Whale Watching Tours in Taiwan

There are plenty of whale-watching tour operators in Taiwan. During the whale season here, every cruise company generally offers two to four cruises per day, from 8 am to 4 pm. Usually, each cruise lasts about 2 to 3 hours and costs between 800 NTD and 1000 NTD. Most operators provide pre-cruise briefings to give visitors a deeper insight into these incredible creatures.