Donggang tide times

Mean tidal range at Donggang is approximately 1.1 m — mixed semidiurnal, with two highs and two lows per day of unequal height. Spring tides push toward 1.4 m; neap tides can compress the daily range below 0.7 m. The South China Sea coast southwest of Taiwan sees a moderate, mixed tidal regime; the river mouth at Donggang adds a fluvial component to the water level that is most significant during heavy rain and high river discharge.

The Pacific bluefin tuna (Hon-maguro) season at Donggang runs primarily from April through June, with peak auction activity in May. The deep-sea fleet returns from southern Pacific grounds; auctions on the Donggang wharf start before dawn on landing days. Visitors can observe the auction from the public wharf area; arriving by 05:00 on a landing day gives the best view of the grading and bidding process. Check local news or the Donggang Fishermen's Association for current season activity — arrival dates vary with the fleet's catch timing.

By passenger ferry from Donggang harbour — crossings take approximately 25 to 30 minutes and run multiple times daily from early morning to late afternoon. The ferry from Xingang Fishing Port (the main Donggang departure point) is the standard service; multiple operators run the route in peak season. Xiaoluqiu has guesthouses and dive operators on the island; day trips are feasible from Kaohsiung if you take an early ferry. The island's east coast reefs and resident sea turtle population are the main draws.

Sea turtles are resident in the waters around Xiaoluqiu (Little Liuqiu Island), 30 minutes by ferry from Donggang. Green turtles (Chelonia mydas) are the most commonly encountered species — resident year-round in the shallow reef areas around the island. Snorkelling encounters with green turtles are nearly guaranteed on a half-day reef tour from the island's operators. Hawksbill turtles are also present occasionally. Do not touch or chase the turtles — marine park regulations apply and the resident population is closely monitored.

No prediction is guaranteed. Data on this page comes from Open-Meteo Marine modelling (typical accuracy ±45 minutes on timing, ±0.2–0.3 m on height) and is intended as planning guidance only. The Central Weather Administration (CWA) is the authoritative source for tidal predictions in Taiwan. River discharge from the Donggang River affects actual water levels in the harbour area during heavy rain and monsoon periods, which the gridded ocean model does not fully capture — always verify with CWA before any boat operation or harbour navigation. This site does not accept responsibility for decisions made based on these predictions.