The Xiamen-Jinmen ferry route, affectionately dubbed the ‘marine shuttle,’ commemorates its 25th anniversary of continuous operation this January. Since its inaugural journey on January 2, 2001, this critical maritime corridor has facilitated over 23 million passenger trips between mainland China’s Fujian province and the Taiwanese island of Jinmen.
The route has earned its reputation as an essential transportation link through its exceptional operational efficiency. With a sailing duration of approximately thirty minutes, frequent daily departures, and affordable pricing structure, the service has become the preferred choice for cross-strait travelers. The implementation of intelligent customs clearance systems has further streamlined the journey, reducing processing times and enhancing the overall passenger experience.
This maritime connection represents more than mere transportation infrastructure—it symbolizes the enduring cultural and economic ties between the coastal city of Xiamen and the Jinmen islands. The ferry service has played a pivotal role in fostering people-to-people exchanges, facilitating business interactions, and strengthening familial bonds across the Taiwan Strait.
The anniversary highlights the route’s transformation into a model of cross-strait connectivity, demonstrating how practical cooperation can benefit communities on both sides. Its quarter-century of successful operation stands as testament to the importance of maintaining and developing transportation links that serve both practical needs and broader relationship-building objectives.