Okinawa Iriomote SUP or Canoe and Barasu Island Snorkeling Tour

Okinawa’s Iriomote Island offers a unique opportunity to experience its diverse natural beauty through a captivating SUP or canoe tour and snorkeling adventure. Rated highly by previous participants, this excursion provides all necessary equipment, liability coverage, and a delectable lunch, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable day on the water. With a limited group size, the tour caters to those with moderate fitness levels, promising a personalized experience amidst the island’s vibrant underwater life and stunning scenery. Intrigued to learn more about this captivating blend of water-based activities and Okinawan exploration?

This experience made our article of We Rank the Top 7 Tours in Iriomote jima.

Key Points

• This tour offers a choice between stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) or canoeing, followed by snorkeling at Barasu Island in Iriomote-jima, Japan.
• The tour is highly rated with 5.0 stars based on 68 reviews, and includes all necessary equipment and services for a comfortable experience.
• The tour has a maximum group size of 15 participants and requires a moderate fitness level, but is not wheelchair accessible.
• Pricing for the tour starts at $101.31 per person, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour includes pickup from the Uehara area, with guests responsible for their own transportation to the meeting point.

Tour Overview

The Okinawa Iriomote SUP or Canoe and Barasu Island Snorkeling Tour offers a comprehensive experience exploring the natural beauty of Iriomote-jima, Japan.

Rated 5.0 based on 68 reviews, the tour provides equipment for stand-up paddleboarding (or canoeing) and snorkeling, as well as liability insurance, wetsuits, and even a hot shower and lunch.

Pickup is available from the Uehara area, and the tour has a maximum of 15 participants with a moderate fitness level required.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, making it a flexible option for those with limited time in Iriomote.

Inclusions

This tour includes a comprehensive set of equipment and services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Participants will be provided with life jackets, exclusive shoes, and full sets of SUP (or canoe) and snorkeling gear. The tour also includes liability insurance, experience fees, and consumption tax.

To keep guests warm during the winter months, wetsuits are provided. Plus, you will have access to a hot shower and a photo data service.

Lunch is included, making this a well-rounded package for an Iriomote Island adventure.

Meeting and Pickup

Guests will meet at the Densa Terminal in Uehara, Taketomi, Okinawa, which serves as the designated meeting point for this tour.

Free pickup is provided in the Uehara area, but guests staying outside this range must reach the Uehara Port by bus or taxi.

Confirmation details, including contact from the shop the day before, will be received at the time of booking.

1. The tour has a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
2. Guests are responsible for their own transportation to the meeting point.
3. Confirmation details are provided upfront, allowing for smooth logistics and planning.

Participant Requirements

A moderate physical fitness level is required for participants, as the tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers, individuals with back problems, or those with heart conditions or other serious medical issues.

The group size is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers. Infants are allowed but must sit on laps, and infant seats are available.

Unfortunately, the tour is not wheelchair accessible. The inclusion of liability insurance, equipment, and a hot shower after the activities suggests the need for some degree of physical capability to participate fully in the SUP or canoe and snorkeling experience.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

The price for the Okinawa Iriomote SUP or Canoe and Barasu Island Snorkeling Tour starts from $101.31 per person.

Guests can enjoy a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Plus, the tour offers a Reserve Now and Pay Later option, allowing travelers to secure their spot while staying flexible.

The cancellation policy provides:

1. Flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalty.
2. Ability to reserve the tour now and pay later.
3. Confidence to plan the trip knowing the spot is secured.

Customer Feedback

Positive experiences have been highlighted by travelers who have taken the Okinawa Iriomote SUP or Canoe and Barasu Island Snorkeling Tour.

Guests have praised the excellent logistics and high-quality equipment provided. The friendly and patient guides have also received positive feedback.

Travelers have described the snorkeling conditions as beautiful, with warm and crystal-clear water.

This tour is recommended for those with limited time in Iriomote, as it allows them to experience the island’s natural beauty and diverse marine life in a convenient and well-organized manner.

Exploring Iriomote Island

Iriomote Island, a captivating gem nestled in the southernmost reaches of Japan’s Okinawa Prefecture, beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.

This lush, subtropical paradise offers a wealth of experiences to explore, from its dense mangrove forests and crystal-clear waterways to its vibrant coral reefs and diverse wildlife.

Key highlights of Iriomote Island include:

1. Kayaking or Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) through the island’s intricate network of mangrove channels, offering a serene and intimate encounter with the local ecosystem.

2. Snorkeling or scuba diving in the pristine waters surrounding Barasu Island, where vibrant coral gardens and a wealth of marine life await.

3. Hiking through the Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to discover cascading waterfalls, ancient limestone caves, and the elusive Iriomote wild cat.

Snorkeling at Barasu Island

Snorkeling at Barasu Island offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the vibrant marine life that thrives in the crystal-clear waters surrounding this idyllic islet.

Equipped with high-quality snorkeling gear, guests can explore the diverse underwater ecosystem, encountering an array of colorful fish, corals, and other marine creatures.

The warm, calm waters provide excellent visibility, allowing for an immersive and relaxing snorkeling experience.

Accompanied by knowledgeable guides, participants can learn about the unique biodiversity of the area and observe the delicate balance of this fragile marine environment.

Snorkeling at Barasu Island is a must-do activity for those seeking to connect with the natural wonders of Iriomote.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Difficult Is the SUP or Canoe Activity?

The difficulty of the SUP or canoe activity depends on the participant’s prior experience and physical fitness level. It requires moderate physical fitness but is generally suitable for beginners with proper guidance and equipment provided by the tour.

Is the Tour Suitable for Beginners in SUP or Canoeing?

The tour is suitable for beginners in SUP or canoeing. The activity is described as moderate in difficulty, and the tour provider offers guidance and equipment to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all skill levels.

What Marine Life Can We Expect to See During Snorkeling?

During the snorkeling portion, visitors can expect to see a variety of vibrant marine life, including colorful coral reefs, diverse fish species, and potentially sea turtles in the warm, crystal clear waters surrounding Barasu Island.

Is There an Option to Only Do the Snorkeling Activity?

The tour offers a snorkeling-only option, which allows participants to experience the marine life at Barasu Island without the SUP or canoe component. Travelers can select this activity-only option if they prefer to focus solely on snorkeling.

Can I Wear My Own Snorkeling Equipment on the Tour?

Participants are welcome to use their own snorkeling equipment on the tour. The tour provides snorkeling gear, but guests can bring their own if preferred. Using personal equipment is allowed, as long as it meets safety standards.

The Sum Up

The Iriomote-jima SUP or Canoe and Barasu Island Snorkeling Tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the breathtaking natural beauty of Okinawa’s tropical paradise. With all necessary equipment, liability insurance, and a delicious lunch included, this adventure caters to moderate fitness levels and delivers a personalized and comfortable day on the water. Explore the vibrant underwater life and stunning scenery of this picturesque destination.