Meet Humpback Whales off Okinawa’s coasts

Whale watching season continues in Okinawa in March. It’s time to go out to the sea and for a day of getting a close look at this oceanic wonder.

Every winter season, humpback whales head south from the freezing waters surrounding Siberia towards Okinawa where they spend December through April giving birth and child-rearing. If you get lucky, you may be able to say hi to a baby whale cruising with its mother.   

Tours are currently available at MCCS Tour+ and Kadena Marina. Waters can get choppy around Okinawa, so prepare ahead when going on a whale watching tour and take seasickness medication like Dramamine.

Whale watching is a seasonal spectacle you don’t want to miss while stationed on Okinawa.

Whale watching tours by MCCS Tours+
Date: March 5, 6, 12, 13
Time: 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Fee: $55 for adult, $44 for child (ages 3 -11)
For more info, visit MCCS Tours + MCCS Tours +
* Children ages 2 and under are not allowed on the tour.
* Tour is subject to change on very short notice based on weather or sea condition.

Whale watching tours by Kadena Marina
Date: Saturdays & Sundays (through March)
Time: 8 – 11:30 a.m. and 1 – 4:30 p.m.
Fee: $30 for ages 4-13, $60 for age 13 and up.
Sign up at Kadena Events* Trips are subject to change based on the current Covid mitigation guidelines.