Kerama Islands Snorkeling Tour | Chatan, Okinawa
- Full-day boat snorkeling tour to the Kerama Islands, about 40 km west of Okinawa's main island.
- Keramashoto National Park waters rank among the clearest in the world, with coral gardens and tropical fish.
- Snorkel at 2–3 staff-picked points straight from the boat, with guidance in Japanese and simple English.
- Snorkeling gear, life jacket, instruction, boarding fee, insurance, and underwater photo data are all included.
- Departs Chatan Hamakawa Fishing Port at 8:30 AM, back by 3:30 PM, with free parking at the port.
Package options
Water Activities
| Water activity type | Snorkeling |
Product Info
The Kerama Islands are a group of about 20 islands, large and small, located roughly 40 km west of Naha on Okinawa's main island. Every year, visitors from Japan and abroad come for waters that rank among the clearest in the world. On March 5, 2014, the islands were designated Japan's 31st national park, the first new national park in 27 years.
Age Requirement
Ages 6 to 64
What You Can Expect
1 Day
- 08:00Meet at Chatan Hamakawa Fishing Port
- 08:30Boat departs
- 09:30Arrive at the Kerama Islands; free snorkeling
- 12:30After 1–2 snorkeling sessions, the boat anchors offshore (no landing on the islands) for a break and lunch (bring your own lunch).
- Depart for Chatan Port
- Arrive at the port; tour ends (the boat returns to port at around 2:30–3:30 PM; times may vary depending on the number of participants and sea conditions)
Purchase Notice
- If only minors are participating, a consent form signed by a parent or guardian is required.
- The tour is conducted in Japanese and simple English. For safety reasons, all guidance and instructions for this activity are given only in Japanese and English, so guests who cannot communicate smoothly in either language cannot participate.
- Life jackets must be worn at all times during the activity. Guests who refuse to wear a life jacket cannot participate, and no refund will be given.
- This is a snorkeling tour, so free diving is not permitted.
- Please wear your swimsuit under your clothes before arriving, and bring a beach towel and shoes that can get wet.
- Wetsuits are not included in July, August, and September. If you would like to rent one, please note it in the "Requests" field when booking. *The rental fee is payable on site.
- Guests with circulatory or respiratory conditions, high blood pressure, otitis media, epilepsy, diabetes, liver disease, cognitive impairment, physical disabilities, limited mobility, or mental illness, pregnant guests, guests taking any medication, and anyone who drank heavily the day before or has been drinking on the day cannot participate. If this is discovered on the day, no compensation or refund will be given. Please check your health condition before booking. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us before booking. Refunds or compensation cannot be claimed on these grounds if you only inform us on the day of the activity without contacting us in advance.
- Guests who have had any of the above conditions in the past cannot participate either, even if they are no longer taking medication. Thank you for your understanding.
- Pregnant guests cannot participate for safety reasons. If this is discovered on the day of the tour, participation will be refused and the tour fee will not be refunded.
- Prescription masks may not be available, so we recommend wearing daily disposable contact lenses, as lenses may be lost in the water.
- In bad weather or high waves, the tour may not visit all 3 points, or the points may be changed for safety reasons. No refund is given in this case. If the tour itself is canceled, a full refund will be issued.
- Depending on sea and wind conditions, the tour may not be able to operate in the Kerama area for safety reasons. In that case, the snorkeling points may be moved to waters off Naha or to the area from Chatan to Onna Village, or the tour may not visit all 3 points.
- Whether the boat departs is decided by the captain based on professional knowledge and experience, taking into account not only the wave height forecast but also wind speed and direction, weather conditions, and actual sea conditions at the time. Therefore, if the boat departs as normal, cancellations for personal reasons or your own judgment after the free cancellation period has passed are not eligible for a free refund.
Surcharge(s)
Facility Usage Fee
JPY 200 per person, payable in cash on site.
Reminders
A minimum of 2 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 2 day(s) before the departure date
Please wear your swimsuit beforehand and bring a change of clothes and a towel.
Pickup and drop-off are not available.
Lunch is not included, so please bring your own lunch and drinks. (Hot water is not available on board, so please do not bring instant cup noodles or similar foods.)
Free parking is available at Chatan Hamakawa Fishing Port.
How to Use
- Please state the English name of the person making the reservation at the meeting location
- Please sign up for travel insurance before participating in the tour
How to Use Your Voucher
- Please present the e-voucher on-site
Experience Location
Location Name: Hamakawa Fishing Port
Address: 4 Minato, Chatan, Nakagami District, Okinawa 904-0114, Japan
Free parking is available at Chatan Hamakawa Fishing Port
FAQs
1. Is Kerama Island a good destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts?
Yes, Kerama Island is renowned worldwide for its exceptionally clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life. It's often referred to as "Kerama Blue" due to the distinct color of its ocean. Enthusiasts can expect to encounter tropical fish, sea turtles, and various coral species, making it an ideal spot for both snorkeling and diving.
2. What kind of marine life can be observed while snorkeling around Kerama Island?
Snorkelers at Kerama Island can expect to see an abundance of tropical fish, including clownfish (Nemo fish), damselfish, and butterflyfish, swimming among extensive coral gardens. Lucky visitors might also spot sea turtles gracefully gliding through the clear waters, making for an unforgettable underwater experience.
3. How do visitors typically travel to Kerama Island for a day snorkeling tour from Okinawa?
Day snorkeling tours to Kerama Island usually depart from major ports in Okinawa, such as Naha or Chatan. Travelers typically take a high-speed ferry or a tour boat, with travel times ranging from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the departure point and the specific island within the Kerama chain being visited.
4. Can visitors stay overnight on Kerama Island, or is it primarily a day-trip destination?
While many visitors enjoy Kerama Island as a day-trip destination, it is possible to stay overnight on some of the larger islands in the Kerama chain, such as Tokashiki, Zamami, and Aka Island. These islands offer various accommodation options, including guesthouses and small resorts, allowing for extended exploration and relaxation.
5. What are the recommended local spots for snorkeling and diving in Kerama Island?
Kerama Island boasts numerous excellent snorkeling and diving spots. Popular areas include Tokashiku Beach and Aharen Beach on Tokashiki Island, and Furuzamami Beach on Zamami Island. These locations are celebrated for their crystal-clear waters, diverse coral ecosystems, and rich marine biodiversity, often recommended by local guides.
6. What is the water temperature like around Kerama Island throughout the year for snorkeling?
The water temperature around Kerama Island is generally pleasant for snorkeling year-round. In summer (June-October), temperatures are warm, often above 28°C (82°F). During winter (December-March), it remains relatively mild, typically around 20-22°C (68-72°F), with wetsuits often recommended for comfort. Spring and autumn offer comfortable conditions as well.
7. What other activities, besides water sports, are available for exploration on Kerama Island?
Beyond snorkeling and diving, visitors to Kerama Island can enjoy exploring the lush landscapes and scenic viewpoints. Popular activities include hiking trails that offer panoramic ocean views, relaxing on pristine white-sand beaches, and cycling around the islands to discover charming local villages and unique geological formations.
8. What safety measures are typically in place for snorkeling tours around Kerama Island?
Reputable snorkeling tours around Kerama Island prioritize safety. This typically includes providing life jackets or buoyancy aids, clear briefings on safety procedures, and having experienced guides supervise activities. Boats are usually equipped with first-aid kits and emergency communication, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.
