We were supposed to do another port in Taiwan, Kaohsiung, but the delay to avoid the Kong-Rey Typhoon, meant we had to skip the port.

Keelung is on the North East side of the island, not far from the capital Taipei. We joined another couple Jack & Peggy on a tour of the local area and started off with the Yehliu Geo Park. This long and narrow cape sticks out from the island and has been eroded by the monsoon rains and winds, leaving lots of different rock types and even some with coloured layering. Some of the rocks have been given names, such a Queen’s Head, Dragon, Cute Princess Rock and the mushroom rocks.

Next was the Nanya Rocks, further up the coast, again formed by the weather and erosion. Stopped off to see a 30 year old Gold Mine, whose buildings are in disrepair. Nearby an inlet was a light brown colour, due to sediments and local rock, whereas the sea was a lovely blue colour, distinct contrast.

Up the hill then to the Golden Waterfall, named due to its colour from the pyrite in the surrounding rocks. Further up the hill was the Shifen Waterfall, the largest in Taiwan, a walk to the viewing points, passed many stalls selling food and souvenirs.

We then headed into Shifen Town for a late local lunch of Beef Noodle Soup with Soup Dumplings. A walk into this ancient town, which was busy with lots of people releasing paper/bamboo lanterns for good luck, from the tourist railway line that runs through the town.

Headed back to the ship through Keelung Town, which is famous for its Night Market.