| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Transfer from meeting point |
| Tour types | Guided tour |
| Additional service & facility | Transfer included |
| Sightseeing type | Whale watching |
| Transport | Sightseeing cruise |
This tour may be cancelled due to bad weather or sea conditions. If any changes are made to the itinerary, we will notify you one day before the tour and obtain your consent.
Whale Watching Guarantee: 1. A full refund will be given if no whales or dolphins are seen. ※No refunds are given for December and January tours, but a "Re-Try" ticket will be given. 2. No refunds will be given unless at least one guest or staff member confirms a whale, dolphin, or spout sighting.
Participants are required to wear life jackets at all times.
Strollers are not allowed on board. If you need to carry your child, please bring a baby carrier to keep your hands free.
If the waves are high on the day of your trip, the captain will determine whether it is safe to board for safety reasons. If you are unable to participate due to high waves, you will receive a full refund.
Okinawa's winter season, typically from late December to early April, is the prime time for whale watching. Humpback whales migrate to the warmer waters around Okinawa for breeding and calving during this period, offering the highest chances of sightings. The peak viewing months are usually from mid-January to March.
Whale watching tours in Okinawa primarily focus on the waters around the Kerama Islands National Park, located west of Naha. These serene waters are renowned as a crucial breeding ground for humpback whales, contributing to the BERRY Whale Watching team's annual success rate of up to 99% in whale sightings.
For an Okinawa whale watching tour, it's recommended to bring warm, windproof, and waterproof clothing, as it can get chilly on the boat. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are also advisable. Don't forget a camera with a good zoom lens, binoculars, and any personal medication, especially for motion sickness.
Yes, the Okinawa whale watching tour includes convenient round-trip transfers. This service is specifically available from hotels located within Naha City, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey for participants from their accommodation to the departure point and back.
To prevent or manage sea sickness during an Okinawa whale watching excursion, consider taking motion sickness medication at least 30 minutes before boarding. During the trip, it helps to focus on the horizon, avoid looking at screens or reading, and stay on the open deck for fresh air. Eating a light, non-greasy meal beforehand can also be beneficial.
During an Okinawa whale watching trip in the Kerama waters, you will be accompanied by experienced Chinese or English-speaking whale watching guides from the BERRY Whale Watching team. They provide insightful introductions to Okinawa's whales, share knowledge about their behavior, and ensure a meaningful and educational experience for all participants.
Okinawa's whale watching experience is unique due to its warm winter waters serving as a crucial breeding ground for humpback whales, often allowing sightings of mothers and calves. Tours venture into the clear, picturesque Kerama waters, providing stunning backdrops and a high success rate for observations. The presence of experienced local guides further enriches the educational value.
The primary species observed during Okinawa's winter whale watching season is the majestic humpback whale. These magnificent creatures migrate from colder northern waters to the warmer Okinawan seas to mate and give birth. Lucky visitors might witness spectacular behaviors such as breaches, tail slapping, and fin waving.