Just out of curiosity, does anyone know whether it is possible to travel from Hong Kong to Taiwan (and back again) by boat. Apparently it is possible; supposedly Star Cruises takes this route, but so far I've had no information from them. I understand this is not a conventional way to Taiwan; however, I am keen to see if it is possible - I hate flying! I am in Hong Kong now.
Thanks for your help.
There are no ferries. Maybe Star Cruises - http://www.starcruises.com/newweb/guide/default.aspx Other option would be a cargo boat.
I think Star Cruises only runs in the summer months. If you are really determined to travel by boat then get take a bus to Xiamen, then a boat to Jinmen and then a boat to Taiwan. Not sure what ferry services run between Jinmen and Taiwan, but you could probably find something.
We've had reports in the past that the Xiamen-Jinmen ferries are ONLY for Chinese and Taiwanese passport holders. You definitely need to find out from a reliable source if that is correct or not before you attempt this.
#3, that was the case in the past but the situation is different now. The only important thing to note is that you have to have the correct visa. If travelling from Jinmen to Xiamen you need to already have a Chinese visa. Coming the other way it is unnecessary if your nationality is allowed visa free entry to Taiwan.