Xiaoliuqiu is one of the easiest places in Taiwan to breather with wild sea turtles without departure the state, and its short boat ride makes it philosophical theory as either a one day trip or a more relaxed long stay 宜蘭衝浪.
Getting there. Boats depart from Donggang Harbor, with the crossing pickings about 25 30 minutes. During peak temper summer and long weekends it’s worth booking tickets ahead, since walk-up queues can mean wait for the next sailing or the one after that, feeding into your island time.
About the turtles. The waters around Xiaoliuqiu are a fixture home ground for putting green sea turtles, and snorkel diving operators generally pick out sites supported on where sightings have been likely that day. That said, turtles are wild animals, and no operator can honestly warrant an run into. When choosing a shop, prioritise ones with an instructor in the water and decently fitted gear over any”guaranteed capsize” marketing.
Planning the loop. The island is small enough to by scooter in half a day. Common boodle include Vase Rock, Beauty Cave, Shanzhu Ditch, and Sunset Pavilion. It’s generally best to docket snorkeling in the morning, when the water tends to be calmer and visibility better, and save the water scooter loop and sundown viewing for the afternoon.
Day trip or overnight? A ace-day travel to is workable, but once you deduct ferry and embarkment time, you’re realistically left with about five to six hours on the island enough for snorkel diving and a loop, but a fast docket. An overnight stay gives you room to loosen up and adds the choice of stargazing after dark.
Things to keep in mind. Some Ethel Waters around the island fall under conservation restrictions, so check stream access rules before diving in. Choosing reef-safe sun blocker is a moderate but meaty way to help protect the in the area.
