【January–March only!】Whale Watching Tour
Whales fall in love in the seas the world adores! The waters of Zamami are the whales' home. The Drifter's cruise ship, Misaki, offers unparalleled comfort, allowing you to savour a luxurious experience onboard. Cruising around the Kerama Islands while enjoying the Kerama Blue, we set out to encounter male whales performing dynamic actions and heartwarming mother-calf pairs.
Days of Week
Sun,Mon,Tue,Wed,Thu,Fri,Sat
Duration
3 hours
Adult (ages 13+)
JPY 8,300
Child (ages 4-12)
JPY 4,150
Infant (ages 3 & under)
JPY 0
Highlight
Highlight #1
Cruising the Kerama Blue Sea Enjoy not only whales but also the beautiful seascapes of Kerama
Highlight #2
The guide explains whale behaviour Explaining whale ecology, the meaning behind their actions, and how to distinguish individuals A thorough introduction that makes the world of whales accessible even to first-time visitors
Highlight #3
The vessel is large and stable, resulting in minimal swaying, making it reassuring for those unfamiliar with boats or travelling with children.
Outline
Schedule
10:00 - 10:00
① Registration and tour application – at Zamami Port
At the Whale Watching Association reception counter in front of Zamami Port, please approach the staff holding a 'DRIFTER' sign.
② Move to the ship 'Umisaki' and board.
While on board, the guide will explain about whales as we head to the spotting points!
③ While cruising, enjoy the ride from the aft deck or inside the cabin.
We also provide free drinks, blankets, and binoculars.
④ Spotting whales – we search for whales based on radio updates from spotters on the observation deck.
Let us know if you spot a whale's blow!
Tips to make your whale watching even more enjoyable!
The tail flukes of humpback whales are unique to each individual, much like human fingerprints, which allows us to identify them through photographs. Some whales that return to Zamami year after year even have names. One famous whale, known as 'Z', has been spotted in Zamami for about 30 years since 1991. Named for the Z-shaped pattern on its tail flukes, Z is a very well-known male whale. When diving deep, he sometimes shows the underside of his tail, so be sure to keep an eye out!
⑤ Return to port – heading back to Zamami Port with wonderful memories.
After returning to the port, the tour concludes. Photos taken during the tour are provided for free!
Plan Information
What's Included
- Life jackets
- Drink
- raincoat
- blanket
- Equipped with a boat toilet
- binoculars
- Insurance
What's Not Included
- Warm clothing and a windbreaker
- Non-slip shoes
- If you are prone to seasickness, take motion sickness medicine.
- Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat)
Requirements
- Healthy individuals aged 3 to 80 who can board and disembark the boat independently.
- Please consult us if you are under 2 years old or over 80 years old.
- If you use a wheelchair, participation may be difficult due to limited mobility on the water.
- Participants under 18 years old must have a parental consent form if attending alone.
- For safety reasons, all participants must be able to understand and speak either Japanese or English.
Restrictions
- Pregnant or potentially pregnant people
- People who have been drinking (including those who are hungover or still have alcohol in their system from the previous day)
- Those with a fever, those using illegal drugs, and those who are deemed unsafe by the organizers on the day of participation.
- If you have any questions or concerns, please write them in the comments section when you apply. The organizers will respond to you.
- If you do not follow the guide's instructions, you may be denied entry even in the middle of the tour.
What to Bring
- Wear clothes that can get wet (it may rain or you might get splashed).
- Non-slip shoes (no sandals, heels, etc.)
Cancellation Policies
50%
1 day before to 16:00
After 16:00, 1 day before
100%
Participation Date