Kerama Islands Diving & Snorkeling Tours from Zamami
Explore the vibrant underwater world of the Kerama Islands with top-rated diving and snorkeling tours departing from Zamami-son.
The Kerama Islands, a designated national park, are a jewel of Okinawa, renowned globally for their pristine coral reefs and incredibly diverse marine life. Zamami-son, one of the main islands, serves as an ideal gateway for experiencing this underwater paradise. Tours departing from Zamami are designed to showcase the best of these protected waters, offering unparalleled opportunities for both novice snorkelers and seasoned divers to connect with a breathtaking aquatic ecosystem. Imagine gliding over kaleidoscopic coral gardens, encountering graceful sea turtles, and spotting a myriad of tropical fish in crystal-clear, turquoise waters. These excursions are meticulously planned to ensure visitors have access to the most spectacular dive and snorkel sites within the archipelago, promising an immersive and visually stunning encounter with nature.
Featured Kerama Islands Diving & Snorkeling Tours
Discover our top picks for kerama islands diving & snorkeling in Zamami-son
This is a 3-hour tour where you can enjoy both kayaking and snorkeling. We will give you a thorough lecture so that even first-timers can enjoy themselves to the fullest. You can peer at the fish and coral underwater in a stable 2-seater sit-on-top kayak. Small children can sit in the middle seat, making it a 3-person kayak♪ You can enjoy the beautiful underwater world of the Kerama blue when snorkeling. This plan is perfect for those who are new to kayaking and don't know what it's like. This plan is recommended for those who would like to snorkel on a deserted island or outside the swimming area.
Enjoy a fun, affordable, and comfortable dive. We visit two to three carefully selected spots per day in the Kerama Islands, including Zamami Island, Tokashiki Island, Kuroshima Island, and Maejima Island, and dive while searching for sea turtles at various underwater locations. *Please note that you may not encounter any sea turtles. "I want to fully enjoy the Okinawan ocean with a Kerama Introductory Dive!" "I don't have a license, but I'd like to take a peek underwater..." "Is this your first dive?" "Can't swim?" "Afraid of water?" "Afraid of heights?" There are many reasons for diving. Most of our customers are first-time divers. Don't worry. For those who want to enjoy diving casually, we recommend boat diving. Our instructors will gently, carefully, and leisurely teach you the charms of Okinawa's introductory diving (in the Kerama Islands). That is our mission as instructors. From January 12th to March, whale watching is also included.
This is our most popular tour recommended for those who want to enjoy both kayaking and snorkeling. We will give a lecture so that even beginners can enjoy it from the bottom of their hearts. With kayaking, you can experience a realistic experience with your eyes close to the surface of the water. At the snorkel, you can see colorful fish and corals up close in the world-class Kerama Blue water. You can also take a nap or lunch while listening to the beautiful scenery and the sound of the waves on the open beach. It should be one of the experiences that cannot be done anywhere else. Since it is a one-day tour, one of the features is that you can relax and enjoy each activity.
Why Choose Kerama Islands Diving & Snorkeling in Zamami-son?
Crystal-Clear Waters
Visibility often exceeds 30 meters, making for exceptional underwater viewing of corals and fish.
Abundant Marine Life
Home to over 300 species of coral and countless varieties of tropical fish, plus sea turtles.
Protected National Park
The Kerama Islands are a designated national park, ensuring preserved natural beauty and a healthy marine environment.
Accessible from Zamami
Zamami-son is a convenient and charming base with easy access to prime diving and snorkeling locations.
Sea Turtle Encounters
These waters are a known habitat for green sea turtles, offering frequent and memorable sightings.
World-Class Diving
The Keramas offer diverse dive sites suitable for all levels, from shallow reefs to deeper drops.
Types of Kerama Islands Diving & Snorkeling in Zamami-son
Diving Excursions
These tours are tailored for certified divers looking to explore the deeper reefs and varied underwater topography of the Kerama Islands. Operators provide transportation to renowned dive spots, guided dives with experienced instructors, and often equipment rental.
Snorkeling Adventures
Ideal for all ages and skill levels, these tours focus on the vibrant shallow-water reefs. Visitors will be taken to accessible coral gardens teeming with colorful fish, with snorkeling gear provided. Many tours include guidance from knowledgeable staff.
Island Hopping & Snorkeling
Combine sightseeing with underwater exploration. These excursions typically visit multiple islands or coves, with dedicated stops for snorkeling in prime locations. They offer a broader experience of the Kerama archipelago's beauty, both above and below the water.
What to Expect on Kerama Islands Diving & Snorkeling Tours
Duration
Most half-day tours last between 3 to 5 hours, while full-day excursions can extend up to 7-8 hours, often including lunch.
Weather
Tours operate year-round, but visibility is best during the drier, sunnier months from spring through autumn. Typhoon season (late summer/early autumn) can lead to cancellations.
Group Size
Group sizes vary. Smaller, more intimate tours might have 6-10 people, while larger operations can accommodate 20-30 participants.
What's Included
Typically includes boat transport, guide services, and snorkeling gear. Diving tours often include weights and tanks; BCD and regulators may be extra or included. Life vests are standard for snorkeling.
Meeting Point
Most tours depart from Zamami Port. Specific meeting times and locations will be confirmed upon booking, usually a short walk from the ferry terminal.
Additional Costs
National park fees may apply. Rental of specialized dive equipment (e.g., dive computers) and underwater cameras are usually separate charges. Lunch is not always included on shorter trips.
Expert Tips for the Best Experience
Book in advance, especially during peak season (summer and Japanese holidays), as popular tours fill up quickly.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate coral ecosystems. Many operators will enforce its use.
Consider bringing your own prescription mask if you wear glasses, as rental prescription masks are not always available.
Stay hydrated! The Okinawan sun can be intense, so bring plenty of water, even if some is provided.
Listen carefully to your guide's safety briefing. They are knowledgeable about the local conditions and marine life.
If you're prone to seasickness, take precautions. The open sea can be choppy, especially during certain times of the year.
Don't forget a waterproof bag for your valuables. While many boats have dry storage, having your own is a good backup.
Check the weather forecast before your tour. While operators will cancel for safety reasons, understanding the conditions can help you prepare.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:Do I need to be a certified diver to go on these tours?
A: No, there are specific tours designed for snorkelers of all levels. If you are a certified diver, there are also dedicated diving excursions available.
Q:What is the best time of year for diving and snorkeling in the Kerama Islands?
A: The visibility is generally excellent year-round, but the warmest water temperatures and calmest seas occur from late spring (May) to autumn (October). Winter months can be cooler but still offer good diving.
Q:Can I see sea turtles on these tours?
A: Yes, the Kerama Islands are a known habitat for green sea turtles, and encounters are common on many snorkeling and diving tours. While not guaranteed, sightings are frequent.
Q:What should I bring with me?
A: You should bring a swimsuit, a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and any personal medications. A waterproof camera is also highly recommended.
Q:Is lunch typically included?
A: Lunch is often included on full-day tours and some longer half-day excursions. It's best to check the specific inclusions when booking, as shorter trips might not provide a meal.
Q:Are there any age restrictions for these tours?
A: Generally, there are no strict age restrictions for snorkeling tours, but children should be accompanied by an adult and be comfortable in the water. Diving tours usually have a minimum age requirement, typically 10-12 years old for introductory dives.
Q:What happens if the weather is bad?
A: Tour operators prioritize safety. If conditions are deemed unsafe due to weather or sea conditions, tours will be canceled, and you will typically be offered a reschedule or a full refund.
Why Visit Zamami-son?
Escape to Zamami-son for crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, a true Okinawa island paradise.
Experience the laid-back Okinawan lifestyle and incredible marine biodiversity found only in Zamami.
Discover protected sea turtle habitats and pristine beaches, offering a unique natural escape.
Immerse yourself in the rich Ryukyuan culture and island traditions of Zamami-son.
Enjoy unparalleled stargazing opportunities away from city lights, a truly magical experience.
Find serenity on this remote island, perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature.
Best Time to Visit
Weather
Zamami-son boasts a subtropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Summers are hot and humid with frequent rainfall, while winters are mild and pleasant, rarely dropping below 15°C. Typhoons can occur between July and October, bringing strong winds and heavy rain.
Best Months
The ideal months to visit Zamami-son are from March to June and September to November, offering comfortable temperatures for beach activities and exploring, with less humidity and fewer crowds than peak summer.
Peak Season
Peak season in Zamami-son typically falls during the summer months of July and August, characterized by hot, sunny weather perfect for beach lovers, but also higher prices and more visitors.
Off Season
The off-season, from December to February, sees cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, making it a great time for a quieter, more budget-friendly visit, though some water activities might be less appealing.
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Plan Your Zamami-son Trip
Transportation Tips
Getting around Zamami-son is best done on foot, especially within the main village. For exploring further afield, renting a bicycle or a scooter is highly recommended and offers a fantastic way to discover hidden coves and scenic viewpoints. Taxis are available but less common. Ferries and high-speed boats connect Zamami to other islands in the Kerama archipelago and mainland Okinawa, with prices varying depending on the vessel. Walking to most beaches like Furuzamami is also quite manageable.
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