Itinerary Reference

13:00 Meet at the shop [Okinawa Island Crew]

13:15 Transfer to Motobu Port

13:30 Depart by boat

~ Whale watching duration up to 3 hours (if whales are spotted early, the return trip will be advanced) ~

16:30 Return to port and disband independently

*Itinerary may be adjusted due to traffic, weather, or other factors

Tour Highlights

Whale watching near Ie Island features relatively fewer vessels, reducing boat congestion and allowing you to enjoy humpback whales more comfortably; past whale watching seasons boast a sighting record of up to 98%

Departing from the port in the Motobu area of Okinawa, close to Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, making it ideal to pair with northern itineraries; both morning and afternoon sessions are available

Complimentary whale guide booklet to learn about the ecology and characteristics of humpback whales while watching them

On‑the‑day activity photos provided, along with wonderful previously captured whale photos

Welcome drinks provided to kick off your whale watching trip with ease

From December to April each year, Okinawa welcomes its exclusive marine romantic feast. Gentle and massive pods of humpback whales migrate across the sea, arriving in Okinawa's pristine waters to inhabit and breed. This annual deep‑sea encounter is an unmissable healing winter scenic highlight in Okinawa. Unlike the crowded feel of popular areas, this whale watching tour departing from Motobu takes you to lesser‑known waters near Ie Island, avoiding clustered boats and allowing you to encounter giant marine creatures up close in a more relaxed and cozy posture.

The tour sets sail from the port in the Motobu area of Okinawa, right next to the internet‑famous Churaumi Aquarium. With a prime location, it perfectly matches the northern Okinawa ring route, allowing you to flexibly combine the aquarium and northern coastal attractions for a day trip, making independent travel hassle‑free and flexible. Session options are very flexible, with both morning and afternoon slots available. Whether you want to catch the morning blue skies and clear sea or head out for a leisurely afternoon wave‑watching cruise, you can unlock your exclusive whale watching time as you wish.

Backed by a premium offshore ecological environment, the waters around Ie Island are dense with coral reefs and surrounded by tropical fish schools, offering crystal‑clear water quality and superb visibility. This whale watching tour boasts a super high wild humpback whale observation record of 98%, offering a high probability of closely observing the agile postures of humpback whales swimming freely and breaching, immersing yourself in the gentle aura of the world's largest mammal and freezing those heart‑stirring deep‑sea touching moments.

The entire journey is supported by thoughtful, refined services, adding a full sense of ritual to your trip. Upon boarding, you can collect a complimentary exclusive whale guide booklet to learn popular science while enjoying the scenery, gaining an in‑depth understanding of the living habits and ecological characteristics of humpback whales so that every viewing goes beyond mere check‑ins. Refreshing welcome drinks are provided throughout the voyage to soothe travel fatigue and easily kick off a cozy marine journey. At the same time, actual on‑the‑day sailing photos are thoughtfully provided, paired with a massive collection of past wonderful real‑shot whale materials, preserving your exclusive winter deep‑sea memories.

Ride the high‑speed boat across the blue sea, stay away from the hustle and bustle of crowds, and unexpectedly encounter wild humpback whales among the crystal‑clear azure sea. No tedious group tours needed; independent travel is free and casual, allowing you to immersively unlock Okinawa's unique winter marine ecology romance and seize fleeting healing deep‑sea adventures.

Whale Watching Guarantee Description

If humpback whales are not seen on the day, one of the following options will be provided

Free re‑participation in the whale watching tour (valid until April 4, 2027)

※Please note that if the following conditions are met, it will be regarded as a successful viewing of humpback whales

● Humpback whale spouting behavior is seen from a distance

● More than 2 guests see humpback whales on the day

Gentle Reminder

Whales are wild animals, and viewing results are affected by sea conditions and biological activity. If whales cannot be observed on the day, you can participate in the whale watching tour again for free, valid until April 4, 2027. Please kindly be informed!

Items to Bring for Whale Watching

Motion sickness medicine: Okinawa in winter is often affected by the northeast monsoon, resulting in rough seas and large waves. Even when taking a cruise ship or large yacht, obvious shaking will be felt. Therefore, participants are strongly advised to take motion sickness medicine in advance before the activity starts to ensure a more comfortable trip. Motion sickness medicine cannot be purchased on‑site.

Windproof and cold‑proof jacket: Winds at sea are strong and temperatures are low. It is recommended to wear a windproof and cold‑proof jacket and wear a beanie. Please avoid wearing hats that are easily blown away by the wind to avoid inconvenience.

Anti‑slip sports shoes: The boat may be slippery or bumpy. Please wear anti‑slip sports shoes and avoid unstable footwear such as high heels.

Anti‑slip camera strap: When using a camera or mobile phone to take pictures, it is recommended to use a camera strap or phone lanyard to secure the device to your hand to prevent accidental slips into the sea and ensure safety.

FAQ

Q: Can I see whales?

A: Since whale watching began in 2010, our shop has maintained an encounter rate of over 98% every year, and achieved a 100% encounter rate in 2020, 2021, 2023, and 2024.

Q: What should I wear to participate?

A: Even in Okinawa, winters can feel cold. It is especially cold at sea, so you are advised to bring warm clothing. For female visitors, it is recommended to wear pants that are easy to move in rather than skirts. In addition, please wear sports shoes or other low‑heeled shoes, as high heels are prone to slipping and danger. We will depart even in light rain, so it will be convenient to bring some basic rain gear. (Our shop also provides paid raincoat rental services)

Q: What if the weather is bad?

A: We will depart on light rainy days. However, in case of poor sea conditions, heavy rain, lightning, dense fog, etc., passenger safety is our top priority, so the tour may be cancelled. In case of cancellation, we will notify customers via the email left during booking one day prior to the tour. Please pay attention, including checking your confirmation email's spam folder.

Q: Can pregnant women board the ship?

A: Given that passenger safety and health are our top priorities, pregnant women are not permitted to board.

Q: Will I get seasick?

A: The boat trip takes about 3 hours. Depending on the sea conditions of the day, the hull may rock. It is recommended that you take motion sickness medicine 30 minutes in advance.

Q: Will my clothes get wet?

A: This is a large yacht accommodating 40 people, equipped with a cabin and a second‑deck area. Depending on the waves and wind force of the day, your clothes may be splashed by sea spray. Please try to wear warm and waterproof clothing.