Miyakojima / Snorkel tour to swim with sea turtles

If you’re heading to Miyakojima and looking for a way to connect with nature in a memorable, safe, and well-organized manner, then this snorkel tour to swim with sea turtles might just be your perfect pick. Rated a perfect 5.0 by visitors, this 3-hour adventure is designed to give everyone—regardless of swimming skills—a chance to meet these gentle marine creatures in their natural habitat. The experience is praised for its high encounter rate, accessibility, and friendly staff, making it a popular choice among travelers seeking authentic encounters without overcomplicated arrangements.

One feature we especially appreciate is how approachable this tour is for families and non-swimmers alike. Plus, the inclusion of free rental equipment, showers, and photo gifts adds real value, making the whole experience seamless and enjoyable. That said, the tour does have some limitations: it’s best suited for those in good health, as certain medical conditions are contraindicated, and the maximum group size is 12, which keeps things intimate but may require early booking.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a hands-on, up-close experience with sea turtles in shallow waters, combined with practical amenities and friendly service. Whether you’re traveling solo, with kids, or as a couple, this tour offers a genuine, joyful encounter that’s worth considering.

Key Points

• High Encounter Rate: Over 98% chance of seeing wild sea turtles, making it a reliable option for turtle lovers.
• Family-Friendly: Shallow waters and safety gear ensure even those new to snorkeling or not confident swimmers can participate.
• All-Inclusive Equipment: Free rental of wetsuits, masks, fins, snorkels, and life jackets makes it hassle-free.
• Convenient Facilities: Free parking, showers, hair dryers, and separate toilets enhance comfort before and after the tour.
• Short, Well-Organized Duration: Approximately 3 hours with a clear schedule, ideal for travelers with limited time.
• Photos as a Souvenir: Take-home images captured during the tour are provided as a free gift, helping you remember the experience.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Out: Ease of Booking and Meeting

Booking is straightforward, with most travelers reserving about 22 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The tour begins at Summer Resort Miyakojima, located conveniently with nearby parking, so you won’t have to worry about navigating complicated transport logistics. You’ll fill out a short application form and receive a briefing that covers safety notes and what to expect, which helps set your mind at ease before the snorkel.

The Transportation & Timing

The tour departs around 9:00 AM or other scheduled times, depending on your booking. From the meeting point, the staff will escort you to the snorkel site, which takes about 20-25 minutes. The timing is well-structured, allowing for a relaxed start with ample opportunity to gear up, listen to instructions, and get comfortable before entering the water.

The Snorkeling Experience

Once at the snorkeling location, the highlight begins. Expect about 40 minutes of underwater exploration, during which you’ll have the chance to swim relatively shallow waters teeming with sea turtles—an encounter rate of over 98% gives you confidence you’ll see these creatures. Reviewers mention that even children and beginners can enjoy this, thanks to the safety equipment (including buoyant body boards) and clear guidance.

The staff, notably, are praised for their helpfulness, with some guides like those with buoyant bodies providing extra stability and confidence in the water. You might feel a gentle nudge of excitement when you spot a turtle gliding nearby, and many note that the experience was “lovely” and “grabbing your heart with a lovely figure,” as one reviewer put it.

Facilities and Comfort

Post-snorkel, you’ll return to the shop, where showers, hair dryers, and separate toilets await. The presence of amenities like a powder space for women and free access to hair dryers are small touches that make a significant difference after getting wet and sandy. The free parking and accessible facilities mean you can focus on enjoying your time rather than stressing over logistics.

Photos and Memories

A neat perk is the free tour photo gift—all images taken during your snorkel session are transferred directly to your smartphone, allowing you to relive the magic without extra expense. Reviewers have appreciated this, noting that the photos capture the joy and wonder of the encounter.

Price & Value Perspective

At $53.11 per person, the tour is competitively priced, considering all the included gear, insurance, and the high likelihood of seeing wild turtles. For about three hours of guided snorkeling plus the convenience of equipment and facilities, it offers solid value—especially for those wanting a hassle-free, authentic experience with minimal prep.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

Given its accessibility, this adventure is especially ideal for families with children, first-time snorkelers, or anyone who feels a little uneasy in open water but still wants to see sea turtles. It’s also suited for travelers who value quality gear, clear safety instructions, and a small group setting for a more personalized experience.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book early: The tour is popular, often booked 3 weeks in advance, so plan ahead.
• Bring a swimsuit and towel: All equipment is provided, but these personal items are your responsibility.
• Consider health restrictions: Those with certain medical conditions, pregnancy, or a history of circulatory or respiratory issues need a doctor’s note.
• Arrive on time: Punctuality ensures you don’t miss the start and can enjoy the full experience.
• Prepare for the weather: While the tour is weather-dependent, good weather guarantees the best underwater visibility.
• Capture memories: Make sure your phone is charged to download the photos afterward.

The Sum Up

This snorkel tour in Miyakojima hits the sweet spot for travelers seeking an authentic and relaxed encounter with marine life. Its high success rate of meeting wild sea turtles, combined with the ease of booking, friendly staff, and inclusive amenities, makes it an excellent choice for families, beginners, or anyone looking to tick off an unforgettable experience in Okinawa. The added bonus of free photos helps you cherish the moment long after you dry off.

While it’s not a tour for those with severe medical conditions, the safety measures and shallow waters ensure most you will find it enjoyable. The reasonable price, combined with the focus on comfort and memorable wildlife encounters, makes it a worthwhile investment. If you’re after a meaningful, manageable, and fun-filled marine adventure, this Miyakojima snorkeling tour deserves a spot on your to-do list.

FAQs

Do I need prior snorkeling experience?
No, this tour is suitable even for beginners and those not confident swimmers, thanks to safety gear like buoyant boards and clear instructions.

What should I bring?
You only need a swimsuit and a bath towel. All snorkeling gear (wetsuits, masks, fins, snorkels, life jackets) is provided for free.

How long is the snorkeling part?
The underwater time is about 40 minutes, which is enough for multiple glimpses of sea turtles and marine life.

Can children join?
Yes, children are welcome, especially since the shallow waters and safety equipment make it accessible for kids.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, bad weather might lead to cancellations, but if canceled, you’ll either receive a different date or a full refund.

What facilities are available on-site?
There are showers, hair dryers, separate toilets, and a powder space, ensuring comfort before and after snorkeling.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 12 travelers, fostering a more intimate experience.

What if I have medical conditions?
You should consult your doctor and bring a medical certificate if you have conditions like circulatory or respiratory issues. Pregnant women and those with epilepsy or heart disease are advised not to participate.