Naha departure available! Whale watching guide of Okinawa! Thorough explanation of the time of year, recommended spots, encounter probability, and reviews!
Table of Contents
Experience the unique pleasures of winter!
Enjoy Whale Watching in Okinawa!
When most people think of Okinawa in winter, they may imagine warm weather and beautiful seas.
However, winter is actually the best season for whale watching in Okinawa.
Every year from December to April, humpback whales return to the warm waters of Okinawa to give birth and raise their young. This time of year is centered on the remote islands of Okinawa and the northern part of the main island of Okinawa,A rare opportunity to see majestic whales up closeIt is.
This time,Recommendations for Whale Watching in OkinawaWe will deliver the
◆Those who want to see whales in Okinawa
◆For those looking for whale watching tours
◆Want to know when and where whale watching is recommended?
Best season to see whales in Okinawa
Whale watching in Okinawa is,Season from late December to early April every year.The first two are the following.
The best season is from January to March, when whale encounters are at their highest.
Especially at this time of year,Parent and child humpback whales are often seen.The parent whale can be seen teaching its calf how to jump, and the parent and calf can be seen swimming gracefully together.
Please experience the impressive drama of nature that can only be experienced in Okinawa in winter☆.
Whale Encounter Rates on Okinawa Island
One of the main concerns in participating in whale watching is the probability of actually encountering whales.
On whale watching tours in Okinawa, the whale encounter rate during the season isApprox. 95% or moreIt is said that the whales can be seen with a very high probability.
Some tours have achieved a 100% encounter rate for two consecutive years since the year before last.
However, there are very rare days when whales are not seen due to weather or ocean conditions. For this reason, it is recommended to choose multiple dates or choose a tour that offers a money-back guarantee in case whales are not seen.
Encounter rates tend to be even higher in northern Okinawa and the Kerama Islands, where the whales' habitat is closer.
Recommended places to see whales in Okinawa
There are several recommended places for whale watching in Okinawa, but the most popular areNorthern part of Okinawa Main Island and around Kerama Islandsare. These areas have a higher chance of encountering whales because of their proximity to their habitat and the short boat trip time.
Furthermore, the surrounding area is home to beautiful coral reefs and abundant marine life, making it a great place not only for whale watching but also for enjoying the beauty of nature.
Selected features and tours of the best spots for whale watching.
↓Whale watching tours in Okinawa are available here.
Whale watching in northern Okinawa
Attractions and recommended tours
In Nago City and Motobu Town in the northern part of Okinawa's main island, you can often encounter whales in the immediate area where you launch your boat, making it possible to enjoy whale-watching in a shorter travel time.
You can search for whales while listening to the knowledge and experience of guides who are familiar with Okinawa's waters.
The tour takes place on a large cruiser specially designed for whale watching, and children as young as 0 years old are welcome to participate!Tour with Churaumi Aquarium ticketsThe entire northern part of Okinawa can be enjoyed.
↓ Northern Okinawa
Click here for recommended whale watching tours
Easy to join!
Recommended Whale Watching Tours from Naha
Tours departing from Naha are easily accessible and can be joined on the same day you arrive in Okinawa. Many tours take you to points around the Kerama Islands and the Okinawa main island to look for whales, and you can enjoy the beautiful ocean scenery while you are on the way!
It weighs about 30 tons and is about 15 meters long.The power of the whales must be impressive☆.
A wide variety of plans to fit your scheduleSo even first-timers can participate with confidence.
↓ Departure from Naha
Click here for recommended whale watching tours
Held around the Kerama Islands
Recommended Whale Watching Tours
The Kerama Islands are a world-class diving destination, an area blessed with beautiful waters and abundant marine life.
Around the Kerama Islands, you can often see powerful performances such as whale jumping and breaching, and it will be an unforgettable experience to encounter whales while overlooking the Kerama Blue♪.
For the tour,Plan combined with diving and snorkelingIt is also a great place for those who want to have active fun.
↓Kerama Islands held
Click here for recommended whale watching tours
Whale Watching Tour Reviews
Whale-watching tours in Okinawa are highly rated by many participants for their inspiring experiences.
Here are some reviews of popular whale watching tours in Okinawa. Please take a look at them to help you choose a tour.
◆Whale is too big! It was so powerful and fun!
◆ Not only childrenI was impressed by how excited the adults around me were too lol. It was a pleasant memory. (40s)
◆While seeing the whales was of course fun, the staff was very friendly and helpful, and although I brought my children with me, they were very helpful in taking care of them. Thank you very much. (30's)
↓Whale watching tours in Okinawa are available here.
What is the appropriate attire for whale watching?
Even though it is winter in Okinawa, the wind is strong at sea and the temperature drops, so care should be taken in clothing.
Fleece, heavy parka, etc.Windproof and warm jacketBe prepared. Since you may be splashed by waves, a windbreaker or other material that is impervious to the wind and can get wet is recommended.
Decks can be slippery, so sandals and heels should be avoided.
andAnti-sickness medicine is also an essential item.It is. Since you will be on the ship for several hours, you should take an anti-sickness medicine about 30 minutes before boarding, unless you are accustomed to being on the ship.
○○ Camera
○Drinks
○○ Towel
○Rain coat
○ Binoculars
Sunscreen
summary
Whale watching in Okinawa is,You can only taste it in the winter time.It is a moving experience to observe the powerful sight of whales up close.
Please take note of the best season, recommended places, and points to consider when choosing a tour.
A trip to see the beautiful ocean of Okinawa and the majestic whales that live there will be a major event this winter!
