TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Rough seas turned a routine ferry ride between Pingtung County's (屏東縣) Donggang (東港) and Liuqiu Island (小琉球) in Taiwan's south into a thrilling, albeit nerve-wracking, experience today (August 4). Unstable weather in southern Taiwan caused a ferry to mimic a "pirate ship," leaving passengers screaming in fear as the vessel navigated the choppy waters.
Passengers on the ferry resorted to using vomit bags and clinging to seat handles to maintain balance, as the vessel occasionally launched into the air. Despite the challenging conditions, tourists continue to flock to Liuqiu Island during the peak summer travel season, undeterred by the persistent rain across Pingtung County. Some thrill-seekers even relish the "free pirate ship" experience, while others, though anxious, take safety precautions such as holding onto seats and wearing life jackets.
Leuco Sapphire Shipping (藍白航運) manager Chou Tai-cheng (周台誠) explained that the southwest seasonal wind caused the ferry to encounter sudden large waves every four to five minutes. Chi Ching-sheng (冀慶生), Taifu Shipping (泰富航運) manager, noted that driftwood poses a risk to the propellers, potentially doubling the usual 20-minute journey to 40 minutes.
Baisha Port (白沙港) has seen an influx of driftwood due to the rough seas, while shallow waters near Donggang's west entrance have exacerbated the situation. The ferry companies have advised travelers to brace themselves for possible delays or cancellations due to the unpredictable weather.