Okinawa Ishigaki Phantom Island Snorkeling Tour

The Okinawa Ishigaki Phantom Island Snorkeling Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore a captivating marine environment. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant ecosystem, discovering a world that vanishes at high tide. With top-notch equipment and a limited group size, the tour ensures a safe and comfortable experience. Intrigued by the prospect of witnessing this natural wonder, one can’t help but wonder what other hidden gems this destination holds.

Key Points

• Snorkeling tour at Ishigaki Island, known as the "Phantom Island" due to its disappearance during high tide.
• Includes snorkeling equipment, digital underwater photographs, and panoramic views of the island.
• Highly rated with 44 reviews and a 98% recommendation rate, awarded a Badge of Excellence.
• Offers free pickup from southern Ishigaki Island hotels and comprehensive coverage for a memorable experience.
• Participation requirements include not being wheelchair-accessible and not recommended for certain medical conditions.

Tour Overview

The tour allows travelers to experience snorkeling at Ishigaki Island, known as the "Phantom Island" for its unique disappearance at high tide.

The tour includes snorkeling equipment, digital underwater photographs, and panoramic views of Iriomote Ishigaki National Park.

Highly rated with 44 reviews and a 98% recommendation from travelers, the tour has also been awarded a Badge of Excellence.

Inclusions

Snorkeling equipment, safety gear (life jacket, special shoes), and wetsuits (in winter) are included in the tour. Plus, the tour provides photo data, access to a hot shower, experience fees, liability insurance, and sales tax coverage. The tour also includes a special offer page with coupons redeemable at local restaurants.

Inclusions	Details
Snorkeling Equipment	Life jacket, special shoes
Safety Gear	Wetsuits (winter)
Other Perks	Photo data, hot shower, experience fee, liability insurance, sales tax, coupon offers

Pickup and Meeting Information

Free pickup is available for guests staying in southern Ishigaki Island, covering the area from ANA Intercontinental Hotel to Fusaki Resort.

Guests must reserve the pickup by 5:00 p.m. the day before the tour. The meeting point is Ishigaki Port Terminal in Japan.

Important tour information will be sent the day before the tour, so guests should contact the provider if they don’t receive it.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is near public transportation, and infant seats are available.

Participation Requirements

This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it’s situated near public transportation.

Infant seats are available for those traveling with young children. However, the tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions.

Most travelers can participate, with a maximum of 30 guests per tour. While the activity level is generally manageable, those with concerns about their physical abilities should check with the tour operator prior to booking.

Safety is a top priority, and the tour provider will ensure all participants can comfortably enjoy the snorkeling experience.

Cancellation and Booking Information

Confirmation is received at the time of booking. Travelers can cancel their tour up to 24 hours before the experience starts, local time. This gives them the flexibility to change their plans if needed.

The tour offers a lowest price guarantee, allowing customers to reserve their spot now and pay later. The tour has an impressive 4.9 rating based on reviews from Viator and Tripadvisor.

For example, one reviewer noted that the tour was rerouted to the Blue Cave due to poor weather, and the alternative was well-received.

Snorkeling Experience

Although the Ishigaki Island tour is known for its "Phantom Island" that disappears at high tide, the highlight of the experience is the snorkeling itself.

Travelers are provided with all the necessary equipment, including snorkeling gear, life jackets, and special shoes. During the snorkeling activity, participants can explore the vibrant marine life and captivating underwater scenery of Iriomote Ishigaki National Park.

Experienced guides ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Underwater photographs are also included, allowing travelers to capture and treasure their snorkeling memories.

Iriomote Ishigaki National Park

Iriomote Ishigaki National Park is a stunning natural wonder, encompassing the islands of Ishigaki and Iriomote. Declared a national park in 1972, it’s known for its diverse ecosystem, including dense mangrove forests, pristine beaches, and thriving coral reefs.

Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, spot rare wildlife like the Iriomote wildcat, and enjoy breathtaking views from its peaks. The snorkeling tour provides an opportunity to take in the park’s vibrant underwater world, witnessing the Phantom Island’s disappearance at high tide.

With its natural beauty and rich biodiversity, Iriomote Ishigaki National Park is a true gem of Okinawa.

Traveler Reviews

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the Okinawa Ishigaki Phantom Island Snorkeling Tour, with a stellar 4.9 overall rating based on reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor.

The tour boasts a 98% recommendation, with reviewers highlighting the excellent snorkeling experience at the "Phantom Island" that disappears at high tide.

Many were impressed by the tour’s thoughtful inclusions, such as digital underwater photos and coupons for local restaurants.

Despite inclement weather, one reviewer noted the operator rerouted to the Blue Cave, demonstrating their flexibility and commitment to providing a memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Duration of the Snorkeling Tour?

The tour overview does not specify the duration of the snorkeling experience. However, it mentions the tour includes snorkeling equipment, underwater photos, and panoramic views of the national park, suggesting it’s likely a multi-hour excursion.

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?

The tour provides all the necessary snorkeling equipment, including wetsuits in winter. Travelers can’t bring their own gear as the tour wants to ensure safety and quality standards. This is a common policy for organized snorkeling experiences.

Is There an Option to Add Additional Activities?

The tour operator doesn’t offer any additional activity options. However, travelers can explore Ishigaki Island on their own before or after the snorkeling tour, with a range of activities and attractions available in the area.

Can I Book a Private Tour for My Group?

Yes, private tours are available for groups. Customers can book a private version of the tour for their group, which offers a more personalized experience. Pricing and availability for private tours may vary compared to the standard tour option.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for Bookings Made Less Than 24 Hours in Advance?

Bookings made less than 24 hours in advance are not eligible for free cancellation. However, the tour operator offers a lowest price guarantee and allows customers to reserve now and pay later.

The Sum Up

The Okinawa Ishigaki Phantom Island Snorkeling Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the vibrant marine life of the Iriomote Ishigaki National Park. With a range of inclusions and safety considerations, this highly-rated tour provides an unforgettable experience for up to 30 guests. Travelers can look forward to stunning underwater views and free transportation, making this an adventure not to be missed.