Taiwan Targets India’s Fly-Cruise Market with StarDream Cruises and EVA Air

Taiwan is strengthening its outreach to India’s outbound travel market, showcasing fly-cruise holidays that combine the island’s attractions with journeys across Northeast Asia. StarDream Cruises’ regional itineraries and EVA Air’s planned direct Delhi–Taipei service, commencing December 1, 2026, are central to this push.

For Indian travel advisors and tour operators, the combination opens opportunities to develop packages featuring stays in Taiwan alongside cruises to destinations in Japan and South Korea. These itineraries can appeal to families, couples and premium travellers seeking varied experiences within a single holiday.

Taiwan’s vibrant cities, cultural heritage, culinary attractions and natural landscapes provide a compelling setting for stays before or after a cruise, allowing visitors to explore the destination beyond its ports.

Paul Shih, Director – TTA, Singapore Office, described India as an important market with considerable untapped potential. He highlighted cruise tourism’s role in introducing travellers to Taiwan while connecting them with other Northeast Asian destinations. The upcoming EVA Air service, he added, would support closer cooperation between tourism, airline, cruise and travel trade partners to develop new products and strengthen visitor demand.

Shih also highlighted the wider economic contribution of cruise tourism. Referring to the World Travel & Tourism Council’s Cruising for Impact report, he noted that cruise-related spending benefits local businesses, tour operators, transport providers, restaurants, retailers and artisans. The report also cites Cruise Lines International Association data indicating that more than 60% of cruise passengers return to destinations first discovered during a cruise.

Naresh Rawal, Senior Vice President – India & Middle East, StarDream Cruises, highlighted India’s growing appetite for distinctive international holidays and its significance for the cruise industry. He identified direct Delhi–Taipei connectivity as an opportunity to develop Taiwan as a gateway for Indian fly-cruise travellers, combining destination exploration with the convenience of visiting several countries on one journey.

EVA Air’s upcoming non-stop service is expected to make Taiwan more accessible from India while giving travel companies greater scope to combine flights, destination stays and cruise departures into integrated holiday packages.

The fly-cruise proposition was showcased at TTA’s recent tourism promotion event in New Delhi, attended by Indian travel trade representatives and media. Six supplier partners participated: four Taiwanese destination management companies, StarDream Cruises and EVA Air. The event presented Taiwan’s diverse tourism offerings and encouraged closer business partnerships.

Adding to its visitor appeal, TTA offers complimentary half-day transit tours for eligible international passengers. Subject to connecting flight schedules and applicable entry and transit requirements, travellers can choose guided bus tours or independent exploration, discovering local neighbourhoods, culture and Taiwanese cuisine during their stopover.