Seasickness, children on board, cancellations in bad weather, what to bring, where to meet. If your question is not answered here, message us on WhatsApp — we reply in English.
Booking
How do I book?
Message us on WhatsApp with your preferred date, the number of guests and the ages of any children. We reply with availability and a quote, usually the same day. You can also book by phone.
How far in advance should I book?
July to September fills up early — we recommend one to two months ahead. Last-minute dates are worth asking about; cancellations happen.
What is the cancellation policy?
30% of the fee 3 days before, 50% 2 days before, and 100% from 17:00 two days before, the day before, or on the day. There is no cancellation fee if we call off the trip because of sea conditions or other reasons on our side.
Can we charter for half a day?
The catamaran can be chartered for up to 2 hours or up to 6 hours. The jet boat and the Japanese wooden boat can be chartered for 3 or 6 hours.
On board
Will I get seasick?
A catamaran rolls far less than a single-hull boat, so guests who normally struggle usually have an easy day. Take motion-sickness tablets 30 minutes before boarding if you are worried.
Can children join?
Yes. There is no age limit and child-size life jackets are on board. Tell us the ages when you book so we can prepare.
I am not a strong swimmer.
A guide stays in the water with you and buoyancy aids are provided. Many guests snorkel for the first time with us.
Is there a toilet on board?
No — there is no toilet on the boat. Please use the toilets and changing rooms at our shop inside Hirara Marina before we depart. If you need to go during the cruise, tell the crew and we will bring the boat in.
Can we bring food and drinks?
Yes. Soft drinks are included on the catamaran, and you are welcome to bring your own food and alcohol. BBQ on deck can be added as an option.
Is Wi-Fi or phone signal available?
Phone signal is patchy around the outer reef. We recommend downloading anything you need before leaving the marina.
Weather and cancellations
What happens if it rains?
We usually sail — what matters is the swell, not the rain. The captain makes the call on the morning of the tour.
Who decides to cancel, and when?
The captain, by 7:00 on the morning of the charter. We contact you immediately and help you move to another date if you still have time on the island.
Can we still reach Yabiji in rough weather?
Depending on the wind and waves, we may take you to another spot that suits the day’s conditions.
When is the best season?
April to October for warm water. July and August are the calmest and the busiest; May and October are quieter with excellent visibility.
Meeting point and what to bring
Where do we meet?
At our shop inside Hirara Marina — 645-4 Nikadori, Hirara, Miyakojima. About 15 minutes by car from Miyako Airport. Free parking is available.
What should I bring?
Swimwear, a towel, sunscreen and motion-sickness tablets if you need them. Soft drinks are included in the catamaran charter. A hat and sunglasses make the day more comfortable.
Are there showers and changing rooms?
Yes — showers with amenities, changing rooms and toilets at the shop. Many guests come to us on their departure day and go straight to the airport afterwards.
Can you store our luggage?
Yes, including suitcases, so you can come to us after hotel check-out. Please keep your valuables with you.
Do you take photos?
All the footage we shoot on action cameras (GoPro, etc.) is yours to keep, free of charge. Drone filming is also available as an option at JPY 5,000.
