Taoyuan Blue Highway Launches August 15! Fixed Weekend Cruises on Shihmen Reservoir Eliminate Group-Waiting, Dual Routes from NT$400

Previously, boat tours on Taoyuan's Shihmen Reservoir operated on a 'group-only' basis, requiring a minimum number of passengers before departure—causing inconvenience for individual tourists who had to wait. This summer, the Taoyuan City Tourism Bureau has partnered with the Taoyuan Ferry and Yacht Business Association to launch the limited-time 'Taoyuan Blue Highway' with fixed departure times. From August 15 to September 27, weekend and holiday cruises will run on schedule, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenic beauty of Shihmen Reservoir without the hassle of waiting.

In the past, boat departures from Shihmen Reservoir required minimum passenger thresholds: 15–20 people at Dabu Wharf, and 12 on weekdays or 15 on holidays at Am-Ping Wharf. This new initiative coordinates with operators to offer fixed departures during the summer and Mid-Autumn holidays, enabling individual travelers to board promptly at scheduled times, greatly improving travel planning flexibility.

Key details of the 'Taoyuan Blue Highway' cruise service:

- Operation Period: August 15 to September 27, 2023 (Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays only) - Daily Departures: Outbound at 10:30 AM and 2:30 PM; Return at 12:30 PM and 4:30 PM - Routes and Pricing: - Dabu Wharf to Jiangmu Island: NT$400 - Am-Ping Wharf to Xin-Xikou Suspension Bridge: NT$400 - Cruise Duration: Approximately 2 hours

Cruising to Xin-Xikou Suspension Bridge requires the reservoir water level to reach at least 241 meters above sea level, making this route a rare seasonal offering. Typically available only after the plum rains replenish water levels and before winter drawdowns, this period offers the best conditions for scenic river valley and reservoir views.

Upon arrival at Xin-Xikou Suspension Bridge—the longest suspension bridge in Taiwan at 303 meters, spanning the Dahan River Valley—visitors can explore surrounding attractions. The bridge connects Jiaobanshan and Xikou Indigenous communities. At the Xin-Xikou market, travelers can enjoy local delicacies such as peach iced tea and Magao sausages, and participate in indigenous craft workshops.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the scenic Luoma Highway nearby, with its tree-lined paths and gentle slopes, is a popular cycling route among biking communities.

For non-drivers, the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle Route 503 (Dalongmen Line) provides convenient public access to the reservoir area, enabling seamless integration of land and water transportation for a complete travel experience.