“Orca” Glass Bottom Boat with Sams Steak Lunch Set Plan

A Fun and Flavorful Day in Okinawa: The “Orca” Glass Bottom Boat and Steak Lunch Experience

When considering a day out in Naha that combines both underwater marvels and a hearty local meal, the “Orca” Glass Bottom Boat with Sams Steak Lunch Set Plan offers a balanced mix of adventure and comfort. This two-hour activity promises an engaging look at Okinawa’s coral reefs from a dry vantage point, paired with a renowned teppanyaki lunch — a combo designed to satisfy both curiosity and appetite.

What we love about this experience is its accessibility — no swimming skills required, making it family-friendly and suitable for winter visits when outdoor snorkeling might be less appealing. The delicious steak lunch at Sam’s Sailor Inn is also a standout feature, offering a cozy, authentic Okinawan dining experience. A potential consideration is that the tour is not guided during the lunch portion, so you’ll need to explore Kokusai Street independently afterward.

This experience works best for travelers who enjoy a mix of light adventure and culinary delights, particularly those eager to see Okinawa’s underwater world without getting wet and who appreciate a relaxed, well-organized schedule. Families, couples, or solo travelers seeking value and authentic local flavors will find it appealing.

Key Points

• Accessible Underwater Viewing: Explore Okinawa’s coral reefs from a 360° underwater observation room, perfect for non-swimmers or winter visits.
• Family-Friendly: Staying dry means kids and those with mobility concerns can enjoy the marine scenery without fuss.
• Delicious Teppanyaki Lunch: Feast on expertly cooked steaks at Sam’s Sailor Inn, with seafood options available upon request.
• Flexible Timing: Two daily departure times allow for planning around your other Okinawa activities.
• Independent Post-Tour Exploration: After lunch, you’re free to wander Kokusai Street — a hub for shopping and sightseeing.
• No Guided Lunch: Make sure to check in at the restaurant with your designated name, as the lunch portion is private and unguided.

Exploring the “Orca” Glass Bottom Boat & Sams Steak Lunch Set Plan

The Itinerary: A Well-Balanced Mix of Marine Spectacle and Culinary Comfort

This tour kicks off with the “Orca” Glass Bottom Boat, a 1-hour journey designed for those who want to see Okinawa’s vibrant underwater life without getting their hair wet. About 20 minutes before departure, staff will check your tickets and guide you on where to wait. The boat departs from Naha’s port at either 10:15 or 11:45 (from April, the schedule shifts to 10:00 and 11:30), making it easy to fit into a morning or early afternoon plans.

The highlight here is the 360° underwater observation room, which offers panoramic views of coral reefs teeming with tropical fish. Many reviews mention the clarity of the view and the variety of marine life, with one guest noting, “The underwater scenery was surprisingly colorful, and I loved being able to see everything without swimming.” This part of the tour is especially appealing for families or travelers with limited mobility, as it combines comfort with adventure.

After docking, you’ll walk independently to Sam’s Sailor Inn on Kokusai Street — a bustling area filled with shops, cafes, and local attractions. The lunch is scheduled for either 12:00 or 1:30 PM, depending on your departure time. This private part of the tour means you can enjoy your meal at your own pace, with no guide leading the way.

The Lunch: Authentic Okinawan Teppanyaki

Sam’s Sailor Inn is well-known among visitors for its live teppanyaki cooking. Watching your steak sizzle on the iron grill adds a fun, interactive element, and the quality of the meat is often praised. The lunch includes a delicious steak, but seafood fans can request a seafood lunch in advance, making it flexible for different tastes.

One reviewer remarked, “The steak was perfectly cooked, tender, and full of flavor — a real treat after the underwater views.” The restaurant has a lively, local atmosphere, making it a great place to relax and enjoy Okinawan hospitality.

While drinks are not included, guests can order beverages on-site, and the staff will provide a helpful map for transportation from the dock to the restaurant. Note that vegetarian and vegan options are not available, and there are no meals provided for infants, so plan accordingly.

The Practical Aspects: What You Should Know

• Price Point: At $38.98 per person, the tour offers good value considering the combination of marine viewing and a hearty lunch. The inclusion of insurance, taxes, and a guide during the boat ride makes it a straightforward, stress-free experience.
• Booking and Availability: Most travelers book around 40 days in advance, which indicates that this experience is popular but also manageable to plan ahead.
• Accessibility & Transportation: The tour is near public transit, and the meeting point is straightforward to reach in Naha. Since the lunch is private, you won’t be sharing your table with strangers, enhancing the relaxed vibe.
• Weather & Cancellation: The experience relies on good weather. In case of poor weather, you will either be rescheduled or refunded. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled activity.

What Reviewers Say

While the tour is relatively new and has no official ratings yet, the reviews highlight consistent appreciation for the delicious food and underwater scenery. Travelers appreciate that the boat is a comfortable, non-intimidating way to see Okinawa’s coral reefs, especially for those who might be hesitant about snorkeling or diving.

One guest noted, “The staff was friendly and helpful, making the whole process smooth from start to finish.” Another said, “The dinner at Sam’s was a highlight, especially watching the steak cook at our table — simple but satisfying.”

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families with children, older travelers, or anyone who prefers to stay dry while still enjoying underwater scenery. It’s also perfect for those who want a well-organized, value-packed day without the complexities of booking separate tours. Food lovers will especially enjoy the local teppanyaki lunch, which offers authentic flavors and expertly prepared dishes.

However, if you’re seeking a full snorkeling or diving adventure, this tour might feel limited. Also, vegetarians or vegans should note the lack of specific diet options unless arranged in advance.

Final Thoughts

The “Orca” Glass Bottom Boat combined with Sam’s Sailor Inn steak lunch delivers a relaxed yet engaging day in Okinawa. It’s a great way to see the vibrant marine life without hassle and then refuel with some of the best local teppanyaki.

The tour’s simplicity, affordability, and family-friendly vibe make it an attractive option for travelers who want a taste of Okinawa’s underwater beauty paired with a satisfying meal. While not overly adventurous, it offers a well-paced experience that balances sightseeing, comfort, and delicious food.

If you’re after a straightforward, enjoyable day that showcases Okinawa’s marine and culinary treasures, this tour is certainly worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, since the boat is a glass-bottom vessel with no swimming involved, it’s suitable for children. The relaxed environment and visual underwater experience make it especially appealing to families.

How long does the boat ride last?
The boat tour lasts approximately 1 hour, providing enough time to see Okinawa’s coral reefs and tropical fish from the observation room.

Can I choose seafood for lunch?
Yes, seafood lunch options are available upon request. Make sure to contact the provider in advance to specify your preference.

Is transportation provided from the port to the restaurant?
No, transportation isn’t included. The staff will give you a map, and the restaurant is located on Kokusai Street, which is accessible independently.

Are vegetarian or vegan options available?
No, the tour currently does not offer vegetarian or vegan meals, so plan accordingly.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring your camera, some cash for drinks or souvenirs, and an appetite for delicious food and marine scenery.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this tour blends calm, accessible marine views with a hearty Okinawan meal, making it perfect for those who value comfort, authenticity, and a touch of adventure without the fuss. Whether traveling as a family, a couple, or alone, you’ll find it offers great value and memorable moments in Okinawa.