Orchid Island
Taiwan
Orchid Island is best known for the Badai Wreck, a Korean lumber-carrying vessel that starts at 26m and descends to 40m deep.
Orchid Island is located east of Kenting. It is a lush green island dominated by mountains. The island is run by the local indigenous tribe called the Tao people. They are known for their uniquely painted canoes and their traditional attire. Its crystal-clear water resembles glass, perfect for photography.
Diver Requirements
Open water diver (Advanced and Deep certification and SMB are recommended for all boat diving)
Below the Surface
A tradition of the locals is to catch flying fish from February to May. Therefore, certain dive sites will be accessible only to the locals. Unfortunately, Badai Wreck is within that area. If you’re aiming to check out the wreck, you’d better go in June or dive with Blue Ocean House, owned by a local. The hard coral here is stunning and its underwater landscapes are intriguing.
Special Dive Site:
Badai Wreck – Has a massive dual mast that is awesome for photo taking.
Above the Surface
When you’re not diving, you can scooter around exploring the island’s intriguing landscape. Watch out for goats as they aimlessly wander onto the roads. There are a few shallow caves you can walk into, and a lighthouse at the top of the middle road that has a nice view of the ocean.
Jikarahem – There, you can find a large rock on the side of the road. A portion of the rock resembles a dragon’s head if you look at it from the right angle.
Dongqing Secret Realm – A circular rock formation resembling Stargate.
How to Get There
How to Get There:
Orchid can be accessed by ferry from either the Houbihu Dock in Kenting, or the Taitung port on the east coast. You must pre-book your ticket. You can do that online.
To get to Kenting, you can take the HSR and coach bus from Zuoying HSR Station or a coach bus from Taipei to Kenting.
To get to Taitung, you can take the train from Taipei to Taitung. Try to take the express train if possible; it’ll only take about 4 hours.
Flights to Taitung are also available from Songshan Airport in Taipei City. Two domestic carriers are available to you, Mandarin Airlines and Uni Air. You can also purchase a separate flight from Taitung to Green Island. From Taitung, you need to take a short 50-minute ferry or an even shorter flight. Both of these flights must be bought well in advance to confirm a seat as seats are limited.
CAUTION: Ferries and Flights can be canceled due to weather and wave conditions. Keep an eye on the forecast and be prepared for cancelations!
Travel Information
Peak Season: April to October
November to December is still diveable, but be ready for colder water temperatures as you come closer to winter months and a higher chance of wavy conditions.
CAUTION: Ferries and Flights can be canceled due to weather and wave conditions. Keep an eye on the forecast and be prepared for cancelations!
Local dive insurance is required (Shop can help you to apply)