The ferry from Kaohsiung Xinbin Pier direct to Magong Port is currently the most affordable sea route from mainland Taiwan to Penghu, with fares starting at NT$860 and year-round service operated exclusively by MV Penghu (Taiwan Navigation Co., Ltd.). MV Penghu entered service on 6 September 2023, replacing MV Taiwan-Hua after her 34-year run. At 9,980 gross tonnes and 600 passenger capacity, she offers a richer range of cabins than her predecessor. The day sailing (09:30 departure) reaches Magong in around 4.5 hours; the night sailing (23:00 departure) takes 6–6.5 hours and arrives in the early morning — ideal if you’d rather skip a night of accommodation and head straight to the sights.
Sailing Schedule
MV Penghu sails daily from Xinbin Pier at 09:30 (day) and 23:00 (night); return sailings from Magong depart at 09:30 and 16:00. Sailings may be cancelled in poor sea conditions, and the overnight service becomes the main option during the winter northeast monsoon. Book through the official site tnc-kao.com.tw — weekdays typically need 3–5 days lead time, while public holidays and the summer peak call for at least a week. Cabin classes include reclining seats (from NT$860), berth bunks, first-class (book in 4s) and deluxe (book in 2s), topping out around NT$1,700. The roll-on/roll-off deck takes 80 cars, 4 coaches and 10 containers, making this the preferred option for self-drive visits to Penghu.
Transport Connections
Before boarding at Xinbin Pier (Kaohsiung): Xinbin Pier sits in Gushan District, Kaohsiung, next to the Pier-2 Art Centre. From the Kaohsiung MRT Orange Line (Sizihwan Station Exit 1) it is a 10-minute walk; the light rail (Pier-2 Dayi or Penglai stop) is a short walk away. Port-area paid parking runs approximately NT$150–250 per day.
After disembarking at Magong Port: Magong Port is about 1 km from the town centre — a 15–20 minute walk. Magong Bus Terminal is right at the port, with 7 bus routes fanning out across the island: Huxi (Aimen Beach), Baisha (Penghu Great Bridge, Tongliang Ancient Banyan) and Xiyu (Erkan Village, Waian). To cover ground quickly, scooter rentals at the port run NT$400–600 per day, or grab a taxi direct to your guesthouse. If you brought a vehicle, MV Penghu’s roll-off service means you can drive straight off and keep going. Large luggage can be stored at the Magong Port Visitor Service Centre for a few hours.