Kerama (Chibishi) and Okinawa Snorkeling: What to Know Before You Go

Meeting points: Kerama (Chibishi), Blue Cave and private charters

For the shared Kerama (Chibishi) snorkeling trip, we meet at Ginowan Marina. Parking at the marina is ¥600 per use. The usual morning schedule is 8:00 AM meeting, 8:15 departure, and return around 12:30.

The shared boat runs to the Chibishi（チービシ）area of Kerama. The ride takes about 30–40 minutes. You will spend around two hours in the water, with regular breaks on board. Exact timing is confirmed the evening before, around 6 PM, depending on sea conditions.

For Blue Cave snorkeling, the meeting point is Maedamisaki Parking Lot (真栄田岬駐車場). For regular cars, parking is ¥100 for the first hour, then ¥100 for each additional 60 minutes. Private charter meeting points are confirmed separately.

The shared Kerama (Chibishi) trip can be booked from 1 person. It is a small-group shared boat with a maximum of 12 guests on board.

Health and fitness requirements

Snorkeling looks easy from shore, but it still requires comfort in open water, enough energy to climb back onto the boat, and the ability to follow staff instructions calmly.

Ages 2–69 may enter the water. Guests aged 70 and above are welcome to join the tour and enjoy the trip from the boat.

Non-swimmers are welcome if they are comfortable in the water. Life jackets are worn at all times and staff stay close. People who panic when their feet leave the bottom should not join.

What's included in the shared Kerama (Chibishi) plan

Basic snorkeling gear is included: mask, snorkel, fins and a life jacket worn at all times. Insurance, underwater photos taken by staff, and trial fishing with one bait set are also included.

When weather allows, free drone aerial photos are included as a bonus. This is one of the very few Okinawa snorkeling tours where drone photos are offered, so it is one of the clearest differences in the shared Chibishi plan.

Certified divers can ask to add fun diving. Guests without certification can ask about Discovery Scuba Diving. Prices are quoted separately; inquire via WhatsApp.

Seasickness and the 4-hour shared boat timeline

If you get seasick easily, take motion sickness medication before departure, not after you already feel unwell. Bring water and light snacks, and avoid alcohol the night before.

8:00 AM

Meet at Ginowan Marina, check in and prepare gear.

8:15 AM

Depart by shared boat.

30–40 min

Boat ride to the Chibishi（チービシ）area of Kerama, depending on sea conditions.

About 2 hrs

Snorkeling time with regular breaks on board.

12:30 PM

Return to Ginowan Marina, subject to sea conditions.

Gear, clothes and what to bring

Prescription mask lenses are available in approximate strengths. For summer, a long-sleeve rash guard is usually enough and helps protect against sun and scrapes.

Marine life and reef manners

Do not touch coral, fish, turtles or any other marine life. Do not stand on reef. Give animals space and follow staff instructions if jellyfish, sea urchins or other hazards are nearby.

If something stings or scratches you, tell staff immediately instead of waiting until the end of the tour.

Weather decisions, cancellation and refunds

The captain decides whether the boat sails. If sea or weather conditions make the tour impossible, such as typhoon conditions, you can reschedule or receive a full refund.

Guest cancellation fees are: 14+ days before, full refund; 13–10 days, 50% fee; 9–6 days, 80% fee; within 5 days, no refund. Personal illness such as a cold or upset stomach is not covered by the weather policy. Visa refusal receives a full refund.

Cameras, GoPro and valuables

You may bring a GoPro or camera, but secure it with a strap or float. The boat is wet and moving, and small items can disappear quickly. Valuables are your own responsibility, so bring only what you need for the trip.

FAQ