TISRS & TARS Summer Camp

Wushi Harbor Whale Watching 

 

Wushi Harbor is an important port in Toucheng Township, Yilan County, Taiwan, and one of the main departure points for whale watching trips to Guishan Island.

Here is the detailed whale watching information for Wushi Harbor:

Wushi Harbor Whale Watching Information

►Departure Point : Wushi Harbor, located in Toucheng Township, Yilan County, is the main departure port for whale watching boats.

►Whale Watching Season : Whale watching activities at Wushi Harbor are primarily concentrated from April to October each year. During this period, marine life is active, making it the best time to observe whales and dolphins.

 

Whale Watching Itinerary

►Duration : Whale watching trips typically take about 2 to 3 hours from departure to return.

►Itinerary :  

1. Departure : Visitors arrive at Wushi Harbor, board the whale watching boat, and set off for the waters around Guishan Island.
2. Sea Cruise : The boat will cruise in the waters near Guishan Island, searching for whales and dolphins.Visitors can enjoy the sea breeze and observe marine life from the deck.
3. Professional Commentary : Onboard professional guides will provide information about whales and dolphins, helping visitors to understand these marine animals' habits and ecology.
4. Return : After the observation, the boat will return to Wushi Harbor, concluding the whale watching trip.

 

Common Species of Whales and Dolphins

•Pinner Dolphin

•Bottlenose Dolphin

•Short-finned Pilot Whale

•Sperm Whale

 

Important Notes

►Visitors must wear life jackets at all times during the trip.

►Always maintain balance, hold onto handrails or the boat when moving, and avoid playing, running, or climbing on railings and the boat's top.

►If seasick, go to the deck for fresh air and look at the horizon.

►Wear long-sleeve breathable clothing and a sun hat.

►Bring sunscreen, seasickness medication, sunglasses to reduce glare, binoculars, a camera, and a whistle.

►To protect the marine environment, do not throw anything into the sea or feed the marine life.

►Follow the instructions and guidance of the captain and staff. You may clap or cheer to interact with the whales and dolphins when they appear, but avoid banging on the boat to prevent scaring them.

►For local visitors, please bring your ID card or any photo identification. Foreign visitors should carry their passport for inspection by port authorities.

 

Guishan Island in Yilan 

 

Guishan Island is a renowned islet in the northeastern part of Taiwan, celebrated for its unique natural landscapes and rich ecological resources.

Here is a detailed introduction to Guishan Island:

Overview of Guishan Island

►Geographical Location : Guishan Island is located about 10 kilometers off the northeast coast of Toucheng Township, Yilan County, Taiwan. It is a volcanic island.

►Name Origin : The island gets its name from its shape, which resembles a turtle floating on the sea.

►Area and Terrain : Guishan Island covers an area of approximately 2.85 square kilometers, with the highest point reaching about 401 meters above sea level. The island features rugged terrain and several spectacular volcanic formations, including craters and volcanic rocks.

 

Main Attractions and Activities

►Whale Watching : The waters surrounding Guishan Island are one of Taiwan's premier whale-watching areas. The whale-watching season runs from April to October, during which visitors can take boat trips to observe whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.

►Island Exploration : Visitors can join island tours to explore Guishan Island. The island offers hiking trails, observation decks, and a lighthouse, providing stunning views of the Yilan coast.

►Sulfur Springs : Guishan Island is home to famous underwater sulfur springs, one of the few such springs in Taiwan. The clear spring water is believed to have therapeutic properties.

►Erosional Landforms : The island's surroundings feature many fascinating erosional landforms, such as sea caves and wave-cut platforms, formed by the long-term action of ocean waves, offering breathtaking views.

 

Ecological Environment

►Rich Marine Life : The waters around Guishan Island are rich in marine life, serving as a habitat for whales, dolphins, flying fish, and other sea creatures.

►Bird Habitat : The island is also a habitat for various bird species. It is a stopover for some migratory birds, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching enthusiasts.