Keelung (Taipei), Taiwan (China)

Need a day away from it all? We'll take you to Yangmingshan: a national park with breathtaking views. With volcanic landscapes, dreamy thermal pools and nature that really knows what it's about, this day has it all: adventure and relaxation with real "wow" factor.

• Yangmingshan National Park
• The smoking craters of the Xiaoyukeng volcano
• Open air spa at the Tienlai Hot Spring Resort
• Snacks and hot drinks included

Off we go! Leave the port of Keelung and head up to the green peaks of Yangmingshan, a natural paradise that is literally bubbling over. This mountainous region is famous for its spectacular volcanic landscapes, seasonal flowers and its open-air “geothermal spa” vibes.

First stop: Xiaoyukeng is an active volcanic crater where the earth breathes, puffs, and bubbles. Between sulfur burps, fumaroles and pools of bubbling water, you'll wander across walkways through the vapors, feeling the heat of the earth beneath your feet. And it's not a joke: you're in the belly of the highest volcano in Taiwan — Seven Star Mountain. Admire the power of nature and snap a few pictures with a background worthy of a documentary on primordial earth. If the sky is clear, you can also enjoy spectacular views over the Taipei Basin: an unexpected combination of skyline and craters.

Then, the journey continues along winding roads with mountain views, until you reach the cherry on the cake: the Tienlai Hot Spring Resort. Nestled amongst woodland and hills, this elegant thermal refuge is the perfect place to leave everything behind and kick back.

Here, you can relax in open-air pools fed by natural hot springs: mineral water, stunning views and not a care in the world. Prefer not to get your hair wet? There's also a super-comfy lounge where you can sip tea, coffee or savor a light snack with views over the mountains. And yes, the snack is included — after all, you can't live on excitement alone!

Whether you choose gurgling jacuzzis, relaxing pools or simply with to breathe in the pure air between sighs of contentment, one thing is certain: you'll come back to the ship feeling like a new person.

During the return journey, relax and enjoy the wild greenery of Yangmingshan slipping past outside your window. This experience is the perfect blend of wild nature and total relaxation — your body and soul with both thank you.

The order of the visits may vary, but the wonder is guaranteed.

• Showering is compulsory before entering the pools: Guests must rinse off before using the thermal springs, in order to maintain the hygiene of the water.
• Remove any jewelry before taking a dip: The minerals present in the thermal water may cause oxidation or discoloration of metal accessories. Guests are advised to remove rings, necklaces and bracelets before getting into the water.
• Limit the time spent in the pools to 15–20 minutes per session:
  To avoid dizziness or discomfort, take breaks between sessions and stay hydrated.
• Guests with high blood pressure, heart problems or who are pregnant should consult a doctor before using the spa or avoid the higher temperature pools.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes, as some of the footpaths within the geothermal site are irregular or slightly sloping.
• The thermal resort will provide towels, but guests must bring their own swimsuit. Please be aware that due to the high mineral content of the water, swimwear may become discolored or fade.
• It is compulsory to wear a swimming cap when using the thermal facilities. For your convenience, a swimming cap is included free of charge in the tour package.

An intense tour visiting the mains sights in Taipei, a multifaceted city where traditional Chinese culture combines perfectly with western modernity. Palaces enclosing the historic memory of the past such as the National Revolutionary Martyrs’ Shrine and Chiang Kai-shek Memorial alternate with luxurious and other futuristic complexes such as the famous Taipei 101, protagonists of the present projected into the future that makes this city one of the most liveable in the orient.

• National Revolutionary Martyrs’ Shrine
• Chiang Kai-shek Memorial
• Taipei 101

• We leave the port behind us on our coach for a one hour drive to Taipei to reach the first stop on our tour, the National Revolutionary Martyrs’ Shrine. It was built in 1969 as a homage to the 330,000 men fallen during the revolution during the Sino-Japanese and Chinese Civil Wars before the Republic of China was established. The imposing architecture is reminiscent of the entrance of the Beijing Imperial Palace. We stop to take a few photos of the exterior among the many tourists waiting impatiently to see the Changing of the Guard.
• Our coach then takes us to another important monument, the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial erected in memory of the former president of the Chinese Republic, Chiang Kai-shek, of whom there is a bronze statue inside. Now the symbol of the city of Taipei, the imposing white marble building has a bright blue roof and is surrounded by gardens and lakes in the typical Chinese style. It is home to the National Theatre and a Concert Hall where many international artists have performed.
• After a brief visit to the monument, our coach drives us to the majestic Grand Hotel where we stop for lunch. The majestic 13-floor building, which is reminiscent of the architecture of Beijing’s Forbidden City, is a true oasis of tranquillity within the chaotic city and stands out among the lush vegetation of the Yuanshan mountains thanks to its red columns and golden roofs. We proceed along the corridors and see the rooms that usually host important figures from the global political scene to reach the restaurant where a rich buffet accompanied by soft drinks, tea and coffee awaits us.
• We leave the luxurious atmosphere of the Grand Hotel and continue towards the last stop on our tour, i.e. Taipei 101, one of the tallest skyscrapers in the world towering above the city skyline at a height of 508 metres and boasting an architecture clearly inspired by tradition and Feng Shui principles. Despite being extremely modern, in fact, the tower resembles a bamboo cane and is made up of eight sections as eight is a lucky number in Chinese culture. We get in one of its 61 lifts that can cover almost 1000 metres a minute and, in just 40 seconds, we reach the 89th floor which offers a spectacular panoramic viewpoint where we can take breathtaking photos of the skyline and observe the spectacular Mass damper essential for the stability of the building.
• After visiting Taipei 101, we board our coach and return to the port.

• Itinerary sequence may vary.
• Footwear must be removed and socks must be worn to enter the mausoleum.
• Do not forget to bring a hat, sunglasses and bottled water.
• We recommend that you book early because only a limited number of places are available.
• Dress code that is appropriate for the places of worship to be visited is recommended.
• This excursion is suitable for those with mobility problems but is not available to wheelchair users.

• Chung Cheng Park, a green oasis in the city
• A stroll among the lush greenery
• Statue of goddess Guanyin at the top of the park
• Yehliu Geopark, a spectacular promontory
• Fascinating unique rock formations
• Statue of Lin Tien Jen, a homage to self-sacrifice

• We leave the port behind us headed to the city centre to visit Chung Cheng Park, perched on the top a hill overlooking the city and the port. We go for a stroll in the midst of the park's lush greenery, a true oasis within the metropolis, and through its three levels to the top. 
• Once there, we admire the enchanting statue of Guanyin, Buddhist goddess of mercy and compassion towering at 25 metres tall, its whiteness standing our against the blue sky. We get back on the coach and head north to the amazing Yehliu Geopark located on a promontory that is approximately 1,700 metres long formed over thousands of years and forged by the erosive action of the sea and elements. 
• As we walk around the park, we can admire multiple rock formations that are unique in the world and their sinuous fascinating shapes that can be rather bizarre and resemble a woman’s head, a mushroom or even a dragon. 
• The statue of Lin Tien Jen is perched on a rock pedestal: he was a local fisherman who sacrificed his life to save some children from drowning. His moving story makes our experience more meaningful, inspiring deep reflections as we admire the wonderful scenery that surrounds us.

• This excursion is not recommended for guests with limited mobility.
• Dress code that is appropriate for the places of worship to be visited is recommended.

Ready for an escape that's full of surprises? Set off for Shifen to discover an authentic corner of northern Taiwan, where nature meets railway nostalgia, and wishes take flight on lit-up lanterns. First, admire a postcard-worthy waterfall and suspended bridges, then indulge in the ancient rite of shopping between the platforms and local street food. An experience overflowing with excitement (and snacks).

• Visit to the stunning Shifen Waterfall
• Traditional launch of a sky lantern
• Shifen Old Street
• Wander among the platforms, boutiques and local street food stalls

Leave the ship behind you and get ready to unwind: you'll set off from Keelung on a journey through the tranquil green mountains of northern Taiwan. First stop: Shifen Waterfall, and no, it's not just any waterfall: immersed in the lush jungle, it's incredibly picturesque as it tumbles over the rocks. The sound of the water and the fresh air will make you feel at one with nature, and an easy walk will take you to the best viewpoints for some real "wow" snaps.

Then, it's time to head to the beating heart of the village: Shifen Old Street, where the tracks cross the town center and time seems to have stood still a few decades back. This is where the key moment of the day awaits you: the ritual of the sky lantern, an ancient Taiwanese tradition that dates back more than 2000 years and is full of meaning. Write down your wishes, light the flame...and watch your lantern take your dreams up into the sky, with all the poetry of this special moment (who knows whether they'll come true!).

After this exciting experience, you'll have time to explore the characteristic boutiques of Shifen: from local crafts, souvenirs inspired by the lanterns and irresistible Taiwanese snacks, there's a new discovery round every corner. Breathe in the scents of the typical specialties, watch the trains pass through the vehicles and enjoy every moment in this fascinating railway village.

At the end of the tour, relax during your comfortable return trip to Keelung port, admiring the rural landscapes that gently slip past outside your window, as you wait for the next wonder to discover.

The order of the visits may vary, but the wonder is guaranteed.

• The sky lanterns activity is included in the price of the excursion, with one lantern shared between four guests. Don't worry, every guest will have space to write their own message or wish on the lantern before it is released.
• Many of the small vendors on Shifen Old Street may only accept New Taiwan Dollars (NTD) in cash. Please bring a little local currency with you if you want to do some shopping or try some local snacks.
• Mosquito alert: The area around Shifen Waterfall is surrounded by lush vegetation, which attracts mosquitoes, especially in the warmer months. Guests are advised to apply insect repellent before the tour starts.
• The tour route includes some steps plus two suspension bridges to reach the waterfalls; as such, it is not suitable for guests with mobility difficulties.

• Tour of the fascinating city of Taipei
• National Palace Museum
• The largest collection of Chinese artworks in the world
• Magnificently-decorated Lungshan temple
• National Democracy Memorial Hall
• Delicious restaurant lunch

• We get on our coach and head inland towards the fascinating city of Taipei, the capital of Taiwan as well as the country’s political, economic and cultural hub that will surprise us with its liveable sophisticated atmosphere. Our first stop is the National Palace Museum, home to the largest collection of Chinese artwork in the world boasting almost 700,000 items. 
• As we wander around the museum, we remain enchanted before the countless artefacts spanning approximately 5,000 years of history and including ceramic, porcelain, bronze and jade objects, interesting sculptures, embroideries, ancient ideogram texts and paintings. We continue with the magnificent Lungshan temple, an ancient sanctuary dedicated to Guanyin, female personification of mercy for Buddhists, as well as to other deities including Taoist ones. 
• The temple is *finely decorated with wooden carvings, gilded incisions and Chinese dragon statues complete with poems, verses and lyrics adding literary value on top of the religious and artistic one. We also make a stop at the National Taiwan Democracy Memorial Hall dedicated to Chiang Kai-Shek and a symbol of Taipei. 
• The white marble building has a bright blue roof and is surrounded by gardens and lakes in the typical Chinese style. It is home to the National Theatre and a concert hall where many international artists have performed.
• This intriguing excursion also features an itinerary for the senses into the Chinese culinary tradition with a delicious fixed-menu restaurant lunch that delights our palates.

• This excursion is not recommended for guests with limited mobility.
• Footwear must be removed and socks must be worn to enter the temple.
• Itinerary sequence may vary.
• Do not forget to bring a hat, sunglasses and bottled water.
• We recommend that you book early because only a limited number of places are available.
• Dress code that is appropriate for the places of worship to be visited is recommended.

A lively modern metropolis that perfectly incarnates the spirit of a population who looks towards the future without forgetting its ancient historical and cultural roots: in this extraordinary journey to discover Taipei, the present and the past intertwine giving life to a combination with a timeless charm.

• The fascinating city of Taipei
• Spectacular Taipei 101 skyscraper
• National Democracy Memorial Hall
• National Palace Museum
• The largest collection of Chinese art in the world
• National Revolutionary Martyrs' Shrine

• We leave the port behind us and head inland towards the fascinating city of Taipei, the capital of Taiwan as well as the country’s political, economic and cultural hub that will surprise us with its liveable sophisticated atmosphere.
• Our tour of the city starts with a stop for photos at Taipei 101, one of the tallest skyscrapers in the world measuring 508 metres and clearly inspired by traditional architecture. Despite being extremely modern, in fact, the tower resembles a bamboo cane and is made up of eight sections as eight is a lucky number in Chinese culture.
• We then move on to the National Taiwan Democracy Memorial Hall dedicated to Chiang Kai-Shek and a symbol of Taipei. The white marble building has a bright blue roof and is surrounded by gardens and lakes in the typical Chinese style. It is home to the National Theatre and a concert hall where many international artists have performed.
• Afterwards, we visit the National Palace Museum, home to the largest collection of Chinese artwork in the world boasting almost 700,000 items spanning over approximately 5,000 years of history and including ceramic, porcelain, bronze and jade objects, interesting sculptures, embroideries, ancient ideogram texts and paintings.
• We end our excursion with a stop at the National Revolutionary Martyrs’ Shrine, built in 1969 as a homage to the 330,000 men who sacrificed their lives during the revolution before the Republic of China was established and to those killed during the Sino-Japanese and the Chinese Civil Wars. The magnificent imposing architecture is reminiscent of the Beijing Imperial Palace in continental China and represents the martyrdom of brave spirits.

• This excursion is not recommended for guests withmobility problems.
• Dress code that is appropriate for the places of worship to be visited is recommended.

Ready to plunge into the wild heart of Taiwan? We'll take you to emerald mountains, villages from days gone by, and thousand-year-old traditions. From the floating lanterns of Shifen to the tea and street food in the former gold rush capital, Jiufen. Get ready: vintage alleyways, spicy scents and memorable photos - this day will be one to enjoy to the full!

• Lantern ritual at Shifen
• Exploration of Shifen Old Street
• Typical lunch in an old tea house with stunning views and a walk in Jiufen

Leave Keelung port behind your and start your day with a scenic journey through the green mountains of northeast Taiwan. First stop: Shifen, a historic mining village like something out of an old Asian film — railway tracks between the houses, period architecture and a retro charm straight out of the movies.

Here, you'll enjoy a touching (and very picturesque) experience: the ritual of the sky lantern, an ancient tradition that was started more than two thousand years ago. Write down your wishes, light the flame...and watch your lantern take your dreams up into the sky, with all the poetry of this special moment (who knows whether they'll come true!).

Still got a bit of time? Great! Stroll along the narrow streets off Shifen Old Street, taste the delectable local snacks from traditional kiosks (watch out: they're addictive) or browse through the vintage-style stores.

Then it's off again, on a spectacular mountainous route, in the direction of Jiufen (or Chiufen, as it's known to friends): a former mining town transformed into a real gem of a place. Among its winding streets, steaming teapots and breathtaking views of the ocean, you can enjoy a typical lunch and then get lost among red lanterns, handmade souvenirs, and culinary delights ranging from the incredible to the inexplicable. Jiufen is an experience to be enjoyed with all five of your senses — you have been warned!
It is said that Miyazaki took inspiration from Juifen for his film Spirited Away, so if you're a Studio Ghibli fan, don't miss this stop. Have fun looking for hidden characters in some of the tiny stores along the streets, and compete to see who can find them all.

And when the sun slowly sets behind the mountains, it's time to return to the ship — with a full stomach and a lighter heart.

The order of the visits may vary, but the wonder is guaranteed.

• To reach Jiufen, you'll need to climb around 300 steps, so the tour is not recommended for guests with mobility issues.
• The sky lanterns activity is included in the price of the excursion, with one lantern shared between four guests. Don't worry, every guest will have space to write their own message or wish on the lantern before it is released.
• Many of the small vendors on Shifen Old Street may only accept New Taiwan Dollars (NTD) in cash. Please bring a little local currency with you if you want to do some shopping or try some local snacks.

Get ready to feel the vibrant rhythm of Taipei, a city that shines like a beacon of modernity. The best way to do it? At Taipei 101, an architectural icon that was the tallest skyscraper in the world for many years. Get into one of the fastest elevators in the world and feel your adrenaline rise as you speed upwards. From the 89th floor, the 360° views over the skyline at night will take your breath away: a carpet of lights sparkling like jewels that bear witness to the vibrancy and energy of this metropolis at its most brilliant.

• Visit to Taipei 101 and its observation deck
• Spectacular views from the 89th floor over the skyline at night
• High-speed elevator
• Luxurious interior of the shopping center inside the building

Prepare your heart and make some space in your phone memory: you're about to enjoy an experience that will leave you breathless, and with your eyes wide open. Welcome to Taipei 101, the steel and glass colossus that pierces the sky of Taipei, soaring 508 meters in the air and boasting 101 floors. Visiting it is unique at any time of day, but at night it's pure magic.

When the sun goes down, Taipei lights up: thousands of lights transform the city into a glittering carpet stretching all the way to the horizon.

Your adventure starts on the ground floor, but forget the usual slow, boring ascents: here, you'll get into one of the fastest elevators in the world, which will propel you up to the 89th floor in less than 40 seconds (which in itself is a thrilling experience!). From the observation deck, you'll have the world at your feet: 360° of unforgettable panoramic views, interactive panels and high-definition telescopes. The skyscrapers sparkle like urban constellations, the streets hum with life and the entire city is transformed into a show of energy and color. It's the perfect moment for an epic photo: take the shot, share and get ready for the likes to come flooding in.

Once you've come back down (if you can bring yourself to), stop off in the luxurious shopping center at the foot of the building (if there's enough time left): a temple to shopping and design, where high-fashion boutiques, gourmet restaurants and trendy cafés await, so you can complete your experience in great style.

• Type of excursion: This is an evening excursion, which ensures the best visual experience of the city lights.
• Height: The observatory is on the 89th floor. The excursion is not recommended for those who suffer from vertigo or extreme fear of heights.

When night falls in Shih-Fen, it isn't silence that dominates...but the light of wishes. Immerse yourself in a tradition that touches the heart and lights up the sky. Your excursion will take you to Shih-Fen, a charming centuries-old mining town enveloped in the charm of local history. Here, you'll take part in the iconic and moving tradition of releasing the sky lanterns. Write your wish on the lantern, light it and watch it rise into the night, along with dozens of others. A collective flight of dreams sparkling above the Taiwanese peaks, leaving an indelible spiritual memory.

• The old mining city of Shih-Fen and its historical, picturesque atmosphere.
• Ceremony of launching the sky lanterns during the night.
• The characteristic shops and boutiques of the town, some of which overlook the railway tracks

Some experiences are hard to forget. The one in Shih-Fen is one of these. An old mining town nestled in amongst the green hills of Taiwan, where history, tradition and dreams are interwoven... and take flight.
After a picturesque drive through rural scenery and misty mountains, you'll arrive at the village, famous for its railway line that cuts through the town, and for a tradition that makes the sky sparkle: the ceremony of the sky lanterns.

Here, when night falls, the magic comes to life. **Write down your dreams, hopes or promises on a large rice-paper lantern, light the flame inside… and watch as your message rises, flickering, into the darkness**. A collective flight of dreams, twinkling above the Taiwanese peaks. It's a simple gesture, but with a powerful meaning: a ritual that unites past and present, land and sky, history and heart.

Discover the history of the lanterns (and how they were once used to communicate to the local people that the miners were safe) and explore the unique local shops strung along the train tracks, whilst enjoying the slow magic of a place where time seems to stand still.

At night, Shih-Fen is pure poetry. It's a lantern that flies, and your wish that comes to life.

• Lantern sharing: The release of the sky lanterns is based on four guests sharing one lantern.
• Shopping & currency: If time allows, when shopping in traditional shops, remember that most sellers will only accept local currency (cash).
• Clothing: We recommend comfortable shoes for walking on the road and suitable clothing for the evening, as this is a nocturnal excursion.
• Nature of the excursion: The excursion focuses on a specific cultural and historical experience, with limited shopping opportunities.

You will depart from the pier and head towards Taipei. You will be dropped off at the Taipei 101 building, which is within walking distance of some of the city's other main shopping precinct and complexes, as well as points of interest. Here you will enjoy you own free time.

You will depart from the pier and head towards Taipei. You will be dropped off at the Taipei 101 building, which is within walking distance of some of the city's other main shopping precinct and complexes, as well as points of interest. Here you will enjoy you own free time.

• The coach ride between Port and Taipei will take about 1 hour. The transfer does not provide a guide.

A lively modern metropolis that perfectly incarnates the spirit of a population who looks towards the future without forgetting its ancient historical and cultural roots: in this extraordinary journey to discover Taipei, the present and the past intertwine giving life to a combination with a timeless charm.

• The fascinating city of Taipei
• Spectacular Taipei 101 skyscraper
• National Democracy Memorial Hall
• National Palace Museum
• The largest collection of Chinese art in the world
• National Revolutionary Martyrs' Shrine

• We leave the port behind us and head inland towards the fascinating city of Taipei, the capital of Taiwan as well as the country’s political, economic and cultural hub that will surprise us with its liveable sophisticated atmosphere.
• Our tour of the city starts with a stop for photos at Taipei 101, one of the tallest skyscrapers in the world measuring 508 metres and clearly inspired by traditional architecture. Despite being extremely modern, in fact, the tower resembles a bamboo cane and is made up of eight sections as eight is a lucky number in Chinese culture.
• We then move on to the National Taiwan Democracy Memorial Hall dedicated to Chiang Kai-Shek and a symbol of Taipei. The white marble building has a bright blue roof and is surrounded by gardens and lakes in the typical Chinese style. It is home to the National Theatre and a concert hall where many international artists have performed.
• Afterwards, we visit the National Palace Museum, home to the largest collection of Chinese artwork in the world boasting almost 700,000 items spanning over approximately 5,000 years of history and including ceramic, porcelain, bronze and jade objects, interesting sculptures, embroideries, ancient ideogram texts and paintings.
• We end our excursion with a stop at the National Revolutionary Martyrs’ Shrine, built in 1969 as a homage to the 330,000 men who sacrificed their lives during the revolution before the Republic of China was established and to those killed during the Sino-Japanese and the Chinese Civil Wars. The magnificent imposing architecture is reminiscent of the Beijing Imperial Palace in continental China and represents the martyrdom of brave spirits.

• This excursion is not recommended for guests withmobility problems.
• Dress code that is appropriate for the places of worship to be visited is recommended.