Naha: Kerama Islands Snorkeling & Seasonal Whale Watching Full Day

A high-speed boat ride from Naha, the Kerama reefs are where you actually see the fish

You board a large, high-speed boat in Naha and spend the day at two or three Kerama reef sites with an instructor, snorkeling among colorful fish and coral. Gear, wetsuit, photos, shower and pickup are all included. From January to March, whale watching is added if weather permits.

Step-by-step itinerary

Full-day Kerama Islands snorkeling tour

• Pick up from Naha City
• Board high-speed boat
• Sip tea and view the islands from the boat
• Snorkel at two or three Kerama spots
• Observe colorful marine creatures
• Use provided snorkeling equipment
• Wear a wetsuit or life jacket for safety
• Receive free underwater photos
• Return to Naha City

The experience

The boat leaves Naha harbor early, and by the time you're past the breakwater the water has already changed color: that particular blue-green the locals call Kerama blue. You'll snorkel at two or three spots in Kerama Islands National Park, among the waters of Tokashiki, Zamami, Kuroshima and Maejima islands. The instructors are trained in first aid and guide you gently and carefully, so even if you've never snorkeled before, you're not figuring it out alone. Snorkeling gear is provided (wetsuit, hood, coat), so you can focus on the water.

In winter the water sits around 22°C, so they hand you a 3mm hooded vest to wear under the wetsuit and a boat coat to throw over it against the wind when you're not in the water. From January through March, whale watching gets added to the itinerary if conditions allow, though whales may not show up depending on the sea state. There's also a four-meter jump into the Kerama blue if you want it, and from the high-speed boat you get to see the islands as you pass them. In August and September you can cool off on board with Kerama blue shaved ice.

The tour includes a hot shower afterward, a changing room, towels, and water. They photograph you underwater, roughly two to three shots, and you can download them online the same day. Motion sickness medication is available if you need it.

What’s included

Free pickup and drop-off within Naha City, snorkeling equipment, wetsuit with 3mm hooded vest, boat coat, snorkeling at two or three Kerama Islands reef spots, instructor guidance, hot shower, changing room, towels, water, underwater photos (about 2–3) downloaded same day, and motion sickness medication upon request. Whale watching is included January 12–March (subject to weather and sea conditions).

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 07:30

AgesAdult (13 to 80 years) · Child (under 13)

GroupUp to 10

Live guideEnglish and Japanese

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Low physical effortNot recommended with heart problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by JOY CREATE OKINAWA TEA-DA

Is this one for you?Book this if you want to snorkel the Kerama reefs without arranging your own boat, transport or timing: the pickup from Naha and fixed schedule handle all three, leaving you to focus on the water.

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English and Japanese.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (under 13).

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

Do I need snorkeling experience?

No. Instructors guide you carefully through each site. Snorkeling gear and a wetsuit are provided, along with floatation rings.

What's included in the tour?

Snorkeling equipment, wetsuit, boat coat, hooded vest, hot shower, towels, water, changing room, pickup and drop-off in Naha, and underwater photos downloaded the same day.

When can I see whales?

Whale watching is added to the tour from January 12 through the end of March, but sightings depend on weather and sea conditions.

What if I get seasick?

Motion sickness medication is available upon request.

Is there a weight or fitness limit?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels. You'll complete a health checklist after booking. Certain medical conditions may prevent participation.