Looking for dolphins in Taiwan? Hualien’s coastal tours deliver excellent value and reliable wildlife sightings. These efficient 40-50 minute boat excursions guarantee about 5 minutes with dolphins and whales – just enough time for photos and wonder. I’m especially fond of the morning tours when the waters are calmest and the marine mammals are most active.
At $29.24 per person, you get comfortable transportation (air-conditioned), expert guides, and hassle-free pickup from Hualien hotels, homestays, and train stations. Boats depart from Hualien Port Xiangri Plaza on a reliable schedule.
My favorite operators maximize wildlife viewing time and provide just the right amount of commentary without overwhelming visitors.
Let’s explore the top dolphin watching tours in Hualien:
Key Points
- Hualien, Taiwan’s coastal area, offers boat tours for whale and dolphin observation, with a viewing time of approximately 5 minutes.
- The tours are operated by Whale World Whale Watching Company, with pickups from hotels, homestays, and train stations in Hualien City.
- The tours are wheelchair and stroller-accessible, but not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious health conditions.
- The starting price is $29.24 per person, with no refunds for cancellations, and potential for additional fees not included in the base price.
- The tours provide an opportunity to witness marine life behavior in their natural habitat, with educational components and guidelines for responsible wildlife photography.
Taiwan Hualien Whale Watching Dolphin
The allure of witnessing the graceful movements of whales and dolphins draws countless visitors to Hualien, Taiwan’s picturesque coastal region.
The Taiwan Hualien Whale Watching Dolphin tour offers a 40-50 minute boat ride to the prime whale-watching spot, with about 5 minutes of viewing time. The tour includes whale watching and dolphin tickets, round-trip transportation, a guide on the ship, and an air-conditioned vehicle.
However, personal expenses, unreported fees, and additional costs due to unforeseen circumstances are excluded.
Guests can be picked up from hotels, homestays, and train stations in Hualien City, and the meeting point is at the Whale World Whale Watching Company before boarding at Hualien Port Xiangri Plaza.
The tour operates daily from 6 AM to 5 PM, and is accessible for wheelchair users and those with strollers. While infants must sit on laps, the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.
Prices start from $29.24 per person, with no refunds for cancellations.
Read our full review: Taiwan Hualien Whale Watching Dolphin Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Tours Wheelchair Accessible?
The tours are generally wheelchair accessible, though it’s best to check with the specific tour operator beforehand to ensure they can accommodate the visitor’s needs. Many offer assistance for boarding and disembarking the boats.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the dolphin watching tours. Most tour operators allow and encourage passengers to bring their own snacks and beverages to enjoy during the excursion.
What Is the Cancellation Policy?
The cancellation policy typically allows customers to cancel their bookings with a full refund if done at least 24-48 hours in advance. Some tours may have stricter policies, so it’s best to check with the operator before booking.
Can I Swim With the Dolphins?
Many dolphin watching tours don’t allow swimming with the dolphins to protect the animals and ensure their safety. Visitors can usually get close to the dolphins and observe them from the boat, but direct interaction is typically not permitted.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tours?
Most dolphin watching tours have age restrictions, often requiring children to be at least 5 or 6 years old to participate. Check with the tour operator for specific age requirements before booking your dolphin watching adventure.
Recap
Hualien’s whale and dolphin watching tours offer an excellent opportunity to spot these magnificent marine creatures. With knowledgeable guides and comfortable boats, visitors can expect a memorable experience observing the graceful movements of these animals in their natural habitat. These tours are a must-do for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers visiting the Hualien region.