| Water activity type | Snorkeling |
| Tour Type | Private tour |
[Those who can participate]
Diving: Healthy people aged 10 to 60 years old
Snorkeling: Healthy people aged 2 to 60 years old
*If you have any of the following illnesses or symptoms, you will not be able to participate.
We appreciate your understanding as we prioritize safety and strive to prevent accidents.
We will reconfirm the application form on the day, but please note that even if a problem is discovered, you will still be subject to a cancellation charge.
・Hypertension (140/90mmHg or higher)
・Ear drum perforation ・Meniere's disease ・Otitis media ・Sinusitis ・Allergic reactions caused by pollen or food that limit daily life or exercise
・Respiratory and circulatory system abnormalities after COVID-19 infection (restricted exercise due to examination) ・Nasal obstruction (nasal polyps, deviated nasal septum)
・Cavities in teeth caused by fillings or ill-fitting dentures ・Endogenous bronchial asthma ・Tuberculosis ・Tuberculosis with air spaces in the lungs ・Bronchial inflammation caused by smoking
・Acute respiratory infections (cold, pneumonia, bronchitis)・Arrhythmia・Valvular disease・Coronary artery disease・Cardiomyopathy・Psychiatric disorders・Alcoholism・Neuralgia
Epilepsy, neurological disorders, migraines, convulsions after head trauma, abnormal brain waves, glaucoma, conjunctivitis, paraplegia, arthritis
・Rheumatoid arthritis ・Stroke (intracerebral hemorrhage, cerebral infarction, subarachnoid hemorrhage) ・Myositis ・Gastric and duodenal ulcers ・Hepatitis ・Pancreatitis ・Diabetes
・Extreme obesity (BMI 30 or higher) ・Pregnancy
- Thyroid disease (that cannot be regulated by oral medication) - Phobias such as claustrophobia, heights, and open spaces - Severe motion sickness
- Pain due to pressure imbalance in the ears and sinuses when flying or driving over mountain passes
- Get up and down on a chair 5 times in 5 seconds, measure your pulse, and if it doesn't return to normal within 45 seconds
[Efforts to prevent infectious diseases]
[Request to customers to prevent the spread of COVID-19]
① Due to the high demand for masks, it is very difficult to provide them. We apologize for the inconvenience, but please bring your own mask when attending.
②If you have any of the following symptoms, please refrain from visiting our store.
③Drinks are available inside the store and on the boat, but we recommend that you bring your own.
*Please note that we may decline your reservation depending on the situation.
If you have been drinking or have a hangover, you will not be able to participate in the tour. If the shop determines that you have been drinking on the day, we may cancel your tour on the day for safety reasons. In this case, the tour will be canceled on the day and a cancellation charge will be applied.
If the tour is cancelled due to sea conditions, there will be no cancellation fee.
Cape Maeda is renowned for its clear waters and vibrant marine ecosystem, making it excellent for snorkeling. The main draw is the Blue Cave, a naturally lit sea cave that creates a mesmerizing blue glow. The calm, protected waters inside the cave and around Cape Maeda are generally safe, offering an ideal environment for observing diverse fish species and corals, suitable for various skill levels.
The Blue Cave's unique feature is its captivating natural blue illumination. Sunlight reflects through the water onto the cave's white limestone bottom, creating an ethereal glow that transforms the underwater landscape into a vibrant blue. This phenomenon, combined with the abundance of marine life inhabiting the cave, offers a distinct and magical snorkeling experience unlike open-sea snorkeling spots.
During a Blue Cave snorkeling tour at Cape Maeda, visitors can expect to encounter a variety of tropical fish, colorful coral reefs, and other fascinating sea creatures. Common sightings include clownfish, butterflyfish, damselfish, and even sea turtles in deeper areas. The tour often includes free fish feeding, which attracts schools of vibrant fish, enhancing the underwater viewing experience.
For optimal visibility at the Blue Cave, morning tours are generally recommended as the sunlight penetration is best and the water tends to be calmer. Early morning slots (e.g., 8:00 AM) often experience fewer crowds, providing a more serene and personal snorkeling experience. Afternoons can also be good, but crowds might be larger, especially during peak seasons. The tour offers five time slots daily for flexibility.
Snorkeling at Cape Maeda's Blue Cave is enjoyable year-round due to Okinawa's subtropical climate. However, spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November) are often considered ideal, offering pleasant weather, calm seas, and comfortable water temperatures. Summer (June-September) is also popular but can be hotter and more crowded. Winter (December-March) is cooler but still offers good visibility, with wetsuits provided for comfort.
The waters around Cape Maeda are renowned for their exceptional clarity, often offering underwater visibility of 20 to 30 meters on calm days. This high visibility allows snorkelers to clearly observe the intricate coral formations, diverse marine life, and the stunning blue light effect within the Blue Cave. Factors like recent rainfall or strong winds can occasionally affect visibility, but generally, it remains very good.
This Blue Cave snorkeling tour at Cape Maeda includes several special services to enhance your experience. Participants receive free underwater camera photography, allowing you to capture memorable moments without needing your own equipment. Additionally, free fish feeding is often included, which attracts various fish species directly to you, making for an interactive and vibrant encounter. The small group tour setting also ensures personalized attention.
Yes, the Blue Cave snorkeling tour at Cape Maeda is highly suitable for beginners and those with no prior experience. The tours are conducted in small groups, ensuring personalized guidance from experienced instructors. Participants are provided with all necessary equipment, including life vests, which aid buoyancy. The calm, protected environment of the Blue Cave makes it a safe and comfortable spot for first-timers to enjoy snorkeling.