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Kerama Islands Snorkeling Day Trip from Naha with Lunch — Review

Kerama Islands review
My verdict: the Kerama Islands snorkeling tour is the most-booked Okinawa day tour for a reason. It’s a $49 full-day boat trip from Naha to three snorkel stops in Kerama Blue water, includes a bento lunch on board, and beginners see turtles. The guides are in the water. Rated 4.7 from 445 reviews.
4.7★★★★★445 reviewsfrom $49
Duration~7 hours
Group sizeShared boat, ~30 people
DepartsNaha marina
Snorkel stopsThree
LunchBento on board
CancellationFree, up to 24h

What the tour is like

You board at a marina in Naha, cross the ~50-minute ferry to the Kerama Islands, and spend the day at three snorkel stops in exceptionally clear water. The boat provides wetsuits, masks and fins; prescription masks are available. You see reef fish, turtles are commonly spotted, and the guides snorkel alongside beginners. Lunch is a bento box with jasmine tea on board during the second stop. You’re back in Naha by early evening.

What works

  • Reasonably priced at $49 for a full day, gear, and lunch included
  • Turtles commonly seen — genuine highlight
  • Gear (wetsuit, mask, fins) provided; prescription masks available
  • Guides in the water with beginners — very reassuring
  • Bento lunch included with jasmine tea
  • Kerama Blue water clarity is genuinely remarkable

Worth knowing

  • Shared boat — you’re with ~30 other people
  • Long day (7 hours) for people who prefer shorter outings
  • Early wake-up for Naha hotel pickup
  • Not the private or ultra-luxury option
Price$49 per person
Rating4.7 / 5
Reviews445
Duration~7 hrs
Snorkel stopsThree
LeavesNaha
Insider tip

Go in spring (March–May) or autumn (September–November) if you can — sea conditions are calmest, the water is warm but not hot, and you won’t compete with summer crowds. Book at least a week ahead in peak season.

Who it’s for

Snorkeling beginners. Families with kids who can swim. Anyone without a rental car who wants to reach the offshore islands that make Okinawa special. Couples and small groups on a mid-range budget.

Not for you if: you want a private experience, or if seven hours on a boat feels too long. For a shorter half-day option, see the Blue Cave private tour ($55).

Check dates & book the Kerama Islands tour
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Frequently asked questions

Is the Kerama Islands tour worth it?

For most visitors, yes. It’s the most-booked Okinawa tour for a reason: it combines affordable price, legendary water clarity, and turtles. The 4.7 rating from 445 reviews reflects a lot of satisfied first-timers.

Can I snorkel if I’ve never done it before?

Yes, absolutely. Guides are in the water with beginners, gear is provided (including wetsuits for warmth), and you control your own pace. Many reviewers noted this was their first snorkel, and they felt supported.

Will I see turtles?

Turtles are commonly seen, especially at the second and third stops. Sea turtles (green and hawksbill) live in Kerama water. No guarantee on any given day, but it’s the most likely Okinawa tour to spot them.

What’s included and what costs extra?

Included: hotel pickup/dropoff in Naha area, boat, wetsuit, mask, fins, three snorkel stops, lunch bento, jasmine tea. No extra costs once you’re booked.

How do I book, and can I cancel?

Book on GetYourGuide through the widget above. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Book a week ahead if possible in July–August.