What is snorkeling on Iriomote Island?
Iriomote Island, where 90% of the island is covered with mangrove forests, attracts many tourists yearly to enjoy activities in the great outdoors.
The island is designated a national park, and its natural environment has been carefully protected.
Of course, the sea is no exception.
Among Okinawa, Iriomote Island’s sea is apparent and home to many colorful coral reefs and tropical fish.
Snorkeling is recommended for those who want to enjoy the rich sea with numerous living creatures.
Types of snorkeling tours on Iriomote Island
Beach Entry Snorkeling
In beach-entry snorkeling, you walk offshore from the shore and begin snorkeling when it becomes more profound.
It is often done in shallow waters with plenty of coral reefs and tropical fish.
The beach entry is very popular with guests with small children and those who get seasick because they can walk to the beach.
Boat Entry Snorkeling
Boat entry, as the name suggests, is a method in which a snorkel boat takes you to the point, and you enter the water from the ship.
The boat takes you offshore so you can snorkel in deeper water.
When you get off the boat and look into the ocean, you will see many tropical fish and coral reefs.
You will surely enjoy a healing time away from daily life.
Even those who cannot swim can enjoy themselves while floating by wearing a life jacket.
Clothing, belongings, and rental equipment for snorkeling tours on Iriomote Island
Clothing for snorkeling on Iriomote Island
| Summer | swimsuits, sandals, rash guards, leggings, etc. |
| Winter | swimsuit (to be worn inside the wetsuit), sandals, thick clothes that can get wet (clothes that can be worn while transporting) |
What to bring for snorkeling on Iriomote Island
| Things to bring | sunscreen, sunglasses, drink, towel, change of clothes, seasickness medicine (only if necessary) |
Rental equipment for snorkeling on Iriomote Island
| Rental equipment | snorkel mask, fins, life jacket, wetsuit (winter only) |
Experience the crystal-clear waters of Iriomote Island with a snorkeling tour!
Iriomote Island can be reached by ferry from Ishigaki Island to Uehara Port or Ohara Port in 40 to 50 minutes and can be reached by day trip.
If you look at the sea on the way to the ferry ride, you will be surprised at the clarity of the sea.
The fantastic nature of Iriomote Island is surrounded by some of the most transparent waters in Japan.
Also, there are many snorkeling spots such as “Hoshisuna Beach,” “Oku-Iriomote,” “Ida beach” in Funauki village, “Barasu Island,” “Hatoma Island,” and “Panari Island” where there is a mermaid myth, and each point has different characteristics.
You can enjoy snorkeling all year round on Iriomote Island.
During the winter months of January~mid-March, both temperature and water temperature drop, but you can enjoy it by wearing a wetsuit.
The lower the water temperature, the lower the number of plankton and the clearer the ocean.
Snorkeling in winter is well received as a way to enjoy the ocean with few other tourists freely, and many repeat visitors return.
Of course, during the other seasons of the year, you can join the tour wearing only a swimsuit and enjoy the beautiful ocean all year round.
