Whale Swimming
Limited-time trip (January-March each year)
Experience Okinawa whale swimming tours like never before. As a colossal whale emerges from the deep, its grace and presence leave a lasting impression.
KUMOODIVE ensures rigorous safety checks, professional instructors, and compliance with legal distances, letting you observe and swim near whales safely in their natural habitat.
The most breathtaking whale encounters come from peacefully sharing the ocean with these magnificent creatures.
Sample Diving Itinerary
Full-day boat diving trip
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Meet at the port at 07:00
If you are assembling on your own, please arrive at least 10 minutes in advance.
* Traffic information .
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07:15 Data registration and equipment confirmation
After completing the personal information registration process, appropriate diving equipment will be assigned.
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07:30 Depart for the waters off Kerama National Marine Park or the outer waters of Okinawa Island.
The dive guide will explain the itinerary, precautions, and equipment preparation on board. Precautions will be provided in both English and Chinese.
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08:00-14:00 Find whales suitable for underwater observation!
The diving boat will not land on the island; guests will enjoy light meals they have brought themselves on board.
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14:00 Return to Naha (the boat has warm showers and changing rooms)
The ship is equipped with warm water showers and changing rooms.
* To protect the ocean, chemical products such as shampoo and shower gel are not allowed on board.
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The trip ends at 15:00, and the group will disband on the spot.
Customers who have booked the pick-up and drop-off service can rest in the car for a while, and staff will take them to the designated hotel once the vehicle is ready.
*The tour is expected to end around 3 PM, but the actual time may vary depending on sea conditions and traffic.
Important Information
Whale Swimming Tour – Precautions & What’s Included
Price Includes:
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Consumption tax
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Professional guide / instructor fees
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Equipment rental
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Insurance
Not Included:
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Lunch (as the trip follows the whales’ schedule, a full lunch break may not be possible; we recommend bringing light snacks)
Eligibility Requirements:
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Ages 12 to 60 (minors require guardian’s signature)
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Must hold Open Water Diver (OW) or Beginner Freediving certification or higher
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All participants must carefully read and follow the health self-assessment checklist
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Participants who do not meet the requirements on the day of the tour cannot join and are not eligible for a refund
Precautions:
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This tour involves surface snorkeling and whale observation
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Whales are wild animals; encounters cannot be guaranteed. No refunds will be issued if no whales are seen.
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If no suitable whales are found for swimming, whale watching will be conducted from the boat
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Sea conditions in whale habitats are not always stable; participants must be able to take care of themselves
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Seasickness medication is strongly recommended
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Camera extension sticks must be 30cm or less; self-diving fins (including short tourist fins or Gull Barracuda fins) are not allowed
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Always follow instructions from the captain, crew, and dive guide
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Non-diving tours allow you to board a plane immediately after the tour
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Itinerary and whale locations may change due to weather or sea conditions; please stay updated
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Do not consume alcohol on the day of the tour
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Check our reservation rules and cancellation policy before booking
What to Bring:
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Swimsuit
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Flip-flops / water shoes
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Change of clothes
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Towel
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Lunch / light snacks