What is the Ishigaki Island Cruising Tour?
If you’re traveling to Ishigaki Island and want to enjoy breathtaking views without getting into the water, a cruising tour is highly recommended!
Cruising tours are a popular activity that allows you to experience the island’s stunningly clear waters in a unique way. During the tour, you’ll board a snorkeling boat and set sail to peaceful scenic spots, where you can relax and take in the beauty of the surroundings. Most people don’t often spend time out on the ocean, making this a special opportunity to unwind and enjoy a luxurious moment on the water.
In this guide, we introduce the cruising tours available on Ishigaki Island.
The Charm of Ishigaki Island Cruising Tours
Unlike large passenger ships, Ishigaki Island’s cruising tours use smaller boats, allowing for a more intimate experience. Most tours last around 2 to 3 hours, making them a perfect short excursion. The smaller boats create a sense of exclusivity, ensuring a private and relaxing experience.
The waters around Ishigaki Island are known for their untouched natural beauty and incredible transparency. From the cruise, you can admire the crystal-clear sea, and on sunny days, you might even catch a glimpse of coral reefs beneath the surface. The area is also dotted with small, uninhabited islands, which can be enjoyed from the deck of the boat.
One must-visit destination on a cruising tour is the “Phantom Island” (Maboroshi no Shima), a mysterious uninhabited island that appears and disappears with the tides. This stunning island, with its white sandy beach and surrounding emerald-green waters, is so picturesque that it has even been used as a location for photo shoots. If you’re taking a cruising tour, this is definitely a highlight you won’t want to miss!
What to Wear, Bring, and Rent for a Cruising Tour
Recommended Attire
| Attire | Wear clothing that can get wet. |
Avoid materials that absorb water, like cotton sweats. Instead, opt for water-resistant fabrics such as nylon.
Essential Items to Bring
| Items to Bring |
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If you are prone to seasickness, taking medication beforehand is highly recommended. Other than that, bringing a towel and a drink will make your experience more comfortable.
Rental Items
| Rental Items | Life jackets (mandatory for safety) |
For safety reasons, all participants must wear a life jacket during the tour.
A Cruising Tour for All Ages
When participating in activities, age restrictions can sometimes be a concern. However, with an Ishigaki Island cruising tour, everyone—from young children to elderly travelers—can enjoy the experience together.
Even if you don’t swim, simply sitting on the boat and admiring the ocean is a relaxing and enjoyable experience. Feel the refreshing sea breeze, watch the beautiful scenery change before your eyes, and unwind in a peaceful setting.
A cruising tour is also perfect for those who want to enjoy their vacation without exhausting themselves with too much physical activity. You can chat with your companions, take memorable photos, and spend a leisurely time on the water. Whether traveling with friends, family, or even three generations together, cruising is a fantastic way to enjoy Ishigaki Island!
Exclusive Sunset & Night Cruising Tours
For those who want to experience the grandeur of Ishigaki Island’s nature to the fullest, special themed cruising tours are available.
Sunset Cruising
On a sunset cruise, you can witness the breathtaking sight of the sun setting over the crystal-clear waters. As the golden hues reflect off the ocean, the atmosphere becomes almost magical. Ishigaki Island’s sunset is famous for its ever-changing colors, shifting through shades of orange, pink, and purple, creating a mesmerizing view.
Night Cruising
A night cruise offers a completely different experience. Once the sun sets, the ocean is illuminated only by the moon and stars, creating an awe-inspiring scene. Ishigaki Island was the first place in Japan to be designated as a “Dark Sky Preserve,” making it one of the best locations to enjoy a sky full of stars. Experiencing this starry wonder while cruising on the ocean is a truly unforgettable luxury.
BBQ & Dining Cruises
Another popular option is a dining cruise, where you can enjoy delicious food while floating on the sea. A BBQ cruising tour allows you to savor grilled dishes and drinks while enjoying the open ocean views. Eating a great meal while surrounded by breathtaking scenery is a special memory that will stay with you long after your trip.
From sunset to nighttime dining, cruising tours provide a variety of ways to appreciate Ishigaki Island’s ocean from different perspectives.
