Taiwan International Ports Corporation, Ltd.

As the closest commercial port to the Penghu Archipelago, Budai Port in southwestern Taiwan is particularly well positioned to benefit from the recent, robust boom in domestic ‘blue highway’ travel. The commissioning last year of two new passenger ferries, the Rikulau and Blue Magpie, significantly increased passenger carrying capacity on the Budai – Magong (Penghu) route. The 590,000 passengers who transited this route in 2019 delivered a hefty 41% increase in passenger traffic over 2018. This year (2020), with the further addition of Kai Shiuan Transport Co.’s new Kai Shiuan 8, Budai Port will have 11 ferries regularly servicing the Budai – Magong route, up from only 3 vessels in earlier times.

Travel on the Budai – Magong route has seen a sharp decline in the wake of public concerns over the COVID-19 pandemic. However, this has not impacted progress on public infrastructure projects directed by the Taiwan International Ports Corporation (TIPC). A recently completed 158m-long extension of Budai Port’s boat pier has added 3 new wharves, each capable of handling ferries up to 500GT. The new wharves will add passenger handling capacity, critical to decreasing congestion during peak travel months. Construction is proceeding apace on the port’s spacious and well-organized passenger service terminal, which, when completed, will be where all ferry passengers are processed and await boarding. Furthermore, the terminal’s retail area will offer shopping and entertainment options for passengers. TIPC is continuing to enhance Budai Port’s facilities and looks forward to a strong rebound in passenger numbers as the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic subsides.

During this year’s ferry season, passenger processing will be handled in a temporary facility set up by TIPC, and passengers awaiting boarding will be accommodated in an open, awning-protected area. In compliance with National Health Command Center (NHCC) rules, temperature sensors have been installed at entryways to screen passengers for fever, and automated alcohol sanitizer dispensers have been distributed throughout the facility for passengers to clean / sanitize their hands. In addition, areas frequented by passengers will be disinfected every half hour. Furthermore, in line with NHCC guidelines, all passengers are now required to wear a facemask in order to enter the facility and board their designated ferry in order to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey for all passengers.





Provided by：Budai Branch Office, Port of Kaohsiung, TIPC
Contact Person：Chen-an Hsieh, Office Director
Telephone No.：05-347-5267 ext. 30
E-mail Address：an_h@twport.com.tw