What happens after you book — Okinawa snorkeling, step by step
In short: You message us in English. We check the boat's calendar and the sea forecast, send you one confirmation email with everything in it, place a card hold (no charge), and confirm again the evening before. On the day you meet the crew at Ginowan Marina; we're on WhatsApp the whole time.
1. You send us the basics (WhatsApp or email)
Six things let us check availability:
- Date (and a backup date if you have one)
- Number of people, and ages of any children (3 and up can join)
- Which trip — Kerama / Chibishi boat snorkeling, Blue Cave, or a private charter
- Where you're staying
- Can everyone swim? First-timers are welcome; just tell us
- The health check: 11 quick questions for each participant — link to /health-check/. If any answer is YES, tell us now so we can confirm with the captain.
No form to fill. A few lines in a message is enough.
2. We reply fast, then check with the boat
During working hours we usually reply within about 10 minutes — we answer as soon as we see the message. We coordinate with local boats and guides; we send your details over, check the sea forecast for your date, and come back with a yes, or an alternative date or trip. The captain's answer can take a little longer if he's out on the water.
3. One confirmation email
When the boat says yes, you get a single email that is the binding record of your trip:
- Date, meeting time, meeting point at Ginowan Marina (with a map pin)
- Which trip, how long, roughly where we'll snorkel (final spot depends on the sea that day)
- Headcount and the final total — all-inclusive, snorkel gear and life jackets included
- What to bring (swimwear, towel, sunscreen, something warm for the ride back)
- A link to place a card hold
If anything in that email is wrong, reply and we fix it before anything else happens.
4. Card hold — not a payment
To secure the booking, PayPal places a temporary authorization on your card for the amount in the email. Nothing is charged. If you join the tour, we release it the same day. If we cancel for weather or sea conditions, we release it. Only a late cancellation or no-show may be charged under our policy. You don't need a PayPal account — you can do it with a card as a guest.
5. The evening before: one message each way
We message you the evening before with the final go/no-go (sea conditions decide). You reply with one line — "see you at 8" is enough. That one reply is the only thing we ask of every guest.
6. On the day
- Meet the crew at Ginowan Marina. Can't find the boat? WhatsApp us — we're awake.
- Briefing, gear fitting, life jackets, then out to the islands. Guides are in the water with you.
- Back at the marina, we release the card hold. Done.
7. If something changes
- You need to cancel: message us as early as you can. Our cancellation policy is here.
- Sea conditions: the captain decides, usually the evening before or early morning. If it's called off, the hold is released in full and we help you rebook or switch to the Blue Cave, which often runs when the islands don't.
- Running late: message us. Boats can sometimes wait a little; sometimes they can't — we'll tell you straight.
FAQ
Do I need to speak Japanese?
No. Everything with us is in English; we talk to the crew.
Do I pay a deposit?
No. A card hold only, released after the tour.
How fast do you reply?
During working hours, usually within about 10 minutes.
I can't swim — can I still join?
Usually yes. Life jackets are always on, guides stay close. Tell us in step 1 so we plan for it.
What if the weather is bad?
The captain calls it the evening before or early morning. You're not charged, and we'll help you rebook or switch trips.
How early should I book?
1–2 weeks ahead for the Kerama / Chibishi boat, 3–7 days for the Blue Cave; weekdays outside peak season often have space on shorter notice. Read more: When to book — the earlier, the better.