Taiwan Positions Itself as a Gateway to Northeast Asian Fly-Cruise Holidays

• Taiwan promotes multi-country cruise holidays combining Japan and South Korea.
• EVA Air’s direct Delhi–Taipei flights begin December 1, 2026.
• TTA strengthens partnerships with Indian travel trade to develop new holiday packages.

New Delhi, October 2026: Taiwan is strengthening its appeal among Indian outbound travellers by positioning itself as a gateway to fly-cruise holidays across Northeast Asia. Combining a stay in Taiwan with cruise itineraries covering destinations such as Japan and South Korea offers travellers an opportunity to explore multiple countries in a single holiday.

The upcoming launch of EVA Air’s non-stop Delhi–Taipei service on December 1, 2026, is expected to improve accessibility and create opportunities for Indian travel companies to develop distinctive international holiday packages for families, couples and premium travellers.

Travellers can combine Taiwan’s cultural attractions, vibrant cities, culinary experiences and natural landscapes with cruise journeys across the region.

Paul Shih, Director – Taiwan Tourism Administration (TTA), Singapore Office, highlighted India’s potential as an important source market. He emphasised the need for closer collaboration between airlines, cruise operators and Indian travel trade partners to develop products that cater to evolving traveller preferences.

Shih also noted that cruise tourism generates economic benefits beyond passenger visits, supporting local businesses, tour operators, transport providers, restaurants, retailers and artisans. Citing the World Travel & Tourism Council’s Cruising for Impact report, he highlighted Cruise Lines International Association data indicating that more than 60% of cruise passengers return to destinations they first discover through a cruise.

Naresh Rawal, Senior Vice President – India & Middle East, StarDream Cruises, echoed the opportunity, noting that direct air connectivity and multi-country cruise itineraries could make Taiwan an attractive gateway for Indian travellers seeking diverse international experiences.

The fly-cruise proposition was highlighted at TTA’s recent tourism promotion event in New Delhi, which brought together travel industry representatives and media. Six supplier partners participated, including four Taiwanese destination management companies, StarDream Cruises and EVA Air.

Further enhancing its visitor proposition, TTA offers eligible international transit passengers a complimentary half-day tour service, providing opportunities to experience Taiwanese culture, neighbourhoods and cuisine, subject to flight schedules and applicable transit requirements.