Kerama Tokashiki Island and Whale Watching Tour

Discovering Okinawa’s Marine Treasures: A Review of the Kerama Tokashiki Island and Whale Watching Tour

This tour promises a blend of scenic beaches, uninhabited islands, and the thrill of spotting whales in their natural habitat – a package that appeals to nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. It’s a well-structured day that combines relaxing beach time, cultural exploration, and the excitement of marine wildlife encounters.

One standout feature of this experience is the opportunity to see Okinawa’s famous clear waters and pristine beaches, especially at Aharen Beach. Plus, the chance to hop on a glass boat for a peek at the ocean floor adds an extra layer of fun. The whale watching segment, with a good chance (around 90% based on past encounters) to see a whale, offers a memorable wildlife experience.

However, it’s important to remember that whales are wild animals, and sightings are never guaranteed. This might be a downside for those hoping for a specific view, but it’s part of the adventure. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of relaxation, nature, and a bit of unpredictability. It’s a great fit for those with moderate fitness since some walking and boat rides are involved, and it’s ideal if you’re looking for an affordable yet comprehensive day out in Okinawa.

Key Points

• Flexible options: Choose between Beach + Whale Watching or Beach + Uninhabited Island + Whale Watching, both including a tasty lunch.
• Marine and beach focus: Expect beautiful beaches, a glass boat tour, and chances of whale sightings amid the Kerama Islands.
• Practical details: The tour lasts around 5.5 hours, includes all transportation, a guide, and necessary safety gear.
• Wildlife unpredictability: Whales are free to come or go, so sightings depend on sea conditions and the whales’ mood.
• Affordable price point: At just $20, this tour offers solid value, especially considering the included lunch and activities.
• Weather dependency: Bad weather can lead to cancellation or route changes, so flexibility is key.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point at Miegusuku Port

Your day begins early, with check-in at 9:15 inside the Miegusuku meeting room in Naha. This is a straightforward start, and the staff are clear about safety instructions, providing multilingual recorded safety announcements – a thoughtful touch for international travelers. After check-in, you’ll board the boat at 9:30, with life jackets handed out. The boat trip to Tokashiki takes about 15 minutes, a quick but scenic ride that gets you in the mood for the day ahead.

Arriving at Tokashiki Island and Aharen Beach

By 10:30, you’ll arrive at Tokashiki Island, a highlight of the trip. From there, a microbus from the local diving shop, Reef Inn Kuniyoshi, will take you to Aharen Beach. This part of the tour is where you get your first taste of Okinawa’s famous waters.

At Aharen Beach, you’ll have about two hours to relax, explore, or enjoy the provided lunch. The lunch is described as curry rice, a simple but satisfying meal that keeps you fueled for the day. This downtime is essential, especially if you plan to take the optional uninhabited island trip by glass boat.

The Glass Boat & Uninhabited Island Adventure (Optional)

If you select the plan that includes the uninhabited island, Hanare Island, you’ll spend about an hour on the glass boat. This is a real treat for ocean lovers, offering a 15-minute ride with clear views of the seabed, perfect for photography or just marveling at marine life without getting wet.

Landing on Hanare Island involves stepping into shallow water, so bring shoes you don’t mind getting wet and a towel. Once ashore, you’ll have about 30 minutes for photos and to soak up the untouched beauty of this small, uninhabited spot. It’s a quick but memorable escape into nature, perfect for snapping some vacation pics or just relaxing away from crowds.

Returning to Aharen Beach, you’ll head back to the diving shop around 12:40 for the bus transfer back to the port, ready for the afternoon whale adventure.

The Whale Watching Experience

The highlight for many will be the whale watching, scheduled for around 1 p.m. The boat departs for Keramashoto National Park, where the crew actively searches for whales in their natural environment. The whole process is about a maximum of two hours, but the actual whale encounter may be less depending on sea conditions and whale activity.

While sightings are not guaranteed, the previous encounter rate is approximately 90%, making it a promising experience. The trip includes enough time to observe whales and possibly get some memorable photos. Keep in mind, the tour could return earlier if whales aren’t spotted or weather turns unfavorable.

Return to Miegusuku Port

By approximately 3:00 p.m., you’ll head back to the port, completing your full adventure. The transportation back is included, and travelers should remember to pay a ¥100 environmental tax (for those over 15).

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Value for Money: For just $20, you get a full day of diverse activities, including lunch, transportation, and guided tours. It’s an affordable way to experience Okinawa’s marine life and scenic beaches without breaking the bank.

Authentic Nature Encounters: Seeing whales in the wild is a bucket list item for many, and even if you don’t see one, the thrill of searching for these gentle giants adds excitement. Plus, the glass boat ride offers a unique, up-close view of the ocean floor that’s hard to beat.

Flexible Options: The choice between just beach and whale watching or adding the uninhabited island allows you to tailor the day to your interests—whether you want more beach time or a quick island escape.

Well-Organized Schedule: The itinerary is tight but manageable, balancing travel time with activities. The guides and staff are clear in instructions and safety briefings, making it a smooth experience for travelers.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Bring shoes for wet landings: If taking the uninhabited island trip, waterproof shoes or sandals are best, along with a towel.
• Prepare for the weather: As the tour is weather-dependent, check the forecast beforehand and be flexible with potential route changes or cancellations.
• Sea sickness considerations: If you’re prone to seasickness, consider bringing medication, as boat rides can sometimes be choppy.
• Snacks and drinks: While lunch is included, bringing extra water or snacks might be helpful, especially if you have specific dietary needs.
• Early arrival: Arriving on time at Miegusuku Port ensures a stress-free start to your adventure.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a compelling mix of scenic beaches, island exploration, and marine wildlife, all wrapped into a reasonably priced package. The inclusion of a tasty lunch, comfortable transportation, and multilingual safety instructions make it accessible for a wide range of travelers.

While whale sightings depend on nature and can’t be guaranteed, the high likelihood of success keeps this tour appealing. The glass boat, uninhabited island stop, and beach time combine to create a balanced day that captures the essence of Okinawa’s coastal beauty.

If you’re seeking an authentic, fun-filled day that mixes relaxation with adventure, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for families, solo travelers, or couples who want a manageable yet memorable experience in Okinawa’s stunning marine environment. Just remember to stay flexible, pack your sense of adventure, and enjoy the journey into Japan’s island waters.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The $20 fee covers the boat trip, guide, insurance, taxes, lunch (curry rice), and transportation from Tokashiki port to Aharen Beach.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, travelers need to pay a ¥100 environmental tax (for those aged 15 and above) at check-in.

Can I see whales on this tour?
While the chances are high (around 90%), whales are wild animals, and sightings are not guaranteed. The tour cannot issue refunds if whales are not seen.

What should I bring?
Bring shoes you don’t mind getting wet, a towel, possibly a swimsuit, and some drinks. Sea sickness medication can be useful if you’re prone to seasickness.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended due to walking, boat rides, and some light activity.

How long does the whale watching last?
Whale watching is scheduled for about two hours, but the actual viewing time depends on whale activity and sea conditions.

What happens in bad weather?
If weather conditions are poor, the tour may be canceled or rerouted for safety. You might also be offered a different date or a full refund.

What’s the best way to prepare for the uninhabited island trip?
Bring waterproof shoes, a towel, and be prepared to land in shallow water. The island visit lasts around 30 minutes.

This experience offers a balanced, accessible way to enjoy Okinawa’s stunning marine environment. Whether you’re after a relaxing beach day, a quick island escape, or the thrill of whale sightings, it’s a thoughtfully arranged tour that maximizes fun and value.