The regular passenger-cargo ferry 'YAIMA MARU' between Keelung and Ishigaki launched amid fanfare, only to see its maiden voyage curtailed by a typhoon. An analysis of steep official fares, forced room buyouts, travel agency monopolies, and austere cabin amenities.
With the regular passenger-cargo ferry route between Keelung Port and Ishigaki Island launching in September 2025, taking a ship to Okinawa's Yaeyama Islands sounds romantic and adventurous. But is it genuinely right for you? A practical travel analysis breaking down seasonal sea conditions, vessel amenities, round-trip travel time, cost comparisons, and island-hopping realities.
A major milestone in maritime travel between Taiwan and Japan arrives as regular ferry service connecting the Port of Keelung and Ishigaki Island in Okinawa launches in September 2025. Operated by Yaima Line with the newly commissioned vessel 'YAIMAMARU', the 7-hour direct voyage opens a relaxing ocean journey to the Yaeyama Islands.
