Farewell to the Tamsui River! 'Queen of the River' Sets Sail for the Philippines

After nearly two decades gracing the waters of Taipei, the iconic 'Queen of the River' (大河之戀皇后號) cruise ship has bid a final farewell to the Tamsui River. The elegant vessel, a landmark that has accompanied countless Taipei residents through romantic moments and celebrations, officially set sail from Guandu Wharf on May 4, 2026, concluding its operational life in Taiwan.

Built in 2007 by Kaohsiung Shing Yang Shipbuilding, the 500-ton, three-deck ship, designed to resemble 19th-century Mississippi riverboats, was a symbol of Taiwan's burgeoning tourism industry. It elevated the Tamsui River experience from simple ferry rides to a luxurious affair, offering fine dining and live music, making it a premier choice for corporate events and romantic banquets. For many years, it was the undisputed star of Taiwan's 'Blue Highway' tourism initiative.

However, the ship's grand presence eventually faced insurmountable operational hurdles. Severe siltation in the Tamsui River became a critical issue, significantly impacting the 'Queen of the River's' draft. This meant the ship could only navigate during high tide, drastically reducing its operating hours and increasing costs. The 'living by the tide' reality, coupled with high maintenance expenses, ultimately led the management team to make the difficult decision to sell the vessel overseas.

The 'Queen of the River' will now embark on a new journey in the Philippines, carrying with it the memories of its service in Taipei. Its departure marks the end of an era for large-scale cruise operations on the Tamsui River, leaving behind a quieter Guandu Wharf and a void in the collective memory of those who experienced its unique charm. The ship's final preparations will take place at Taipei Port before it is transported by cargo ship to its new destination.