FAQ
Miyako Island – Frequently Asked Questions
We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions that we receive in our inquiries.
Tour Details & Participation Requirements
- Q. Can I visit the Blue Cave?
- A. Yes. The Blue Cave is one of the most requested diving spots. We often visit it during the summer season, depending on ocean conditions.
- Q. Do you offer tours to Yabiji (Yaeyama Barrier Reef)?
- A. No, we do not offer tours to Yabiji. Our tours focus on the Irabu and Shimoji Islands area, which feature most of the diving spots in Miyakojima, including caves like the Blue Cave.
- Q. Where do Discover Scuba Diving tours take place?
- A. Our Discover Scuba Diving tours are conducted around Irabu and Shimoji Islands. You may request specific points. The Blue Cave is a popular request. We choose the best spot each day based on conditions and guest preferences.
- Q. Can I get underwater photos during the tour?
- A. Yes. If you book through our official website, you can use an underwater camera for free (please bring your own SD card). Staff can also take photos for you upon request, with safety as our top priority.
- Q. Can I join without a diving license?
- A. Yes. You can join our Discover Scuba Diving plan without a license. Our Certified Diving plan is for licensed divers only.
- Q. I have poor eyesight. Can I still dive?
- A. Yes. We offer prescription masks (rental fee: 550 yen). However, soft daily disposable contact lenses are more recommended for comfort on the boat and land.
- Q. Can I dive with my licensed friend?
- A. Yes, you can enjoy diving together.
- Q. How long will I be underwater?
- A. About 40 minutes including surface practice. We aim to give you the best experience based on your comfort and condition.
- Q. How deep is the Discover Scuba Diving tour?
- A. We start around 5m and go up to 12m max, depending on your comfort and safety.
- Q. Can children join? Is there kid-sized gear?
- A. Children aged 12+ can participate. We provide kid-size wetsuits and BCDs. Diving helps kids connect with the beauty of nature in Miyakojima.
- Q. Can I join the tour alone?
- A. We usually accept bookings for two or more people. Solo participants, please contact us to check availability.
- Q. Can I join a tour after arriving in Miyakojima on the same day?
- A. Yes. You can join our half-day afternoon diving plan after arrival. Please inform us of your arrival time when booking.
- Q. Can I dive before flying home?
- A. No. For safety reasons, diving on your departure day is not allowed. We recommend snorkeling instead.
- Q. I’m over 55 years old. Can I join?
- A. We are sorry, but the diving plan is limited to guests aged 55 and under with no issues on the Medical Questionnaire.
- Q. Can I dive during my period?
- A. Yes, if you are feeling well.
- Q. Can I join if I’m pregnant?
- A. For safety reasons, pregnant guests cannot participate in our diving tours.
- Q. What is the tour schedule?
- A. Meeting → Check-in → Briefing → Boat ride to the spot → Diving → Return → Change clothes → Dismissal. Morning course: 8:30–12:00 / Afternoon: 12:30–15:00.
- Q. Where is the meeting point for the scuba diving tour?
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The meeting point will be either of the following two ports in Miyakojima:
- Sun Marine Terminal (former Saramahama Fishing Port)
📍 Google Maps link - Toguchi Port (渡口港)
📍 Google Maps link
We will let you know the exact meeting port via WhatsApp one day before the tour.
- Sun Marine Terminal (former Saramahama Fishing Port)
Tour Details & Participation Requirements
- Q. What payment methods are accepted?
- A. We accept online credit card payment in advance (Visa, Mastercard, American Express). Your reservation will be confirmed once the payment is completed.
- Q. What is your cancellation policy?
- A. If you cancel due to personal reasons, a cancellation fee will apply. For details, please refer to our Terms of Service.
- Q. Are tours canceled on rainy days?
- A. No. We usually operate tours even on rainy days. Diving and snorkeling are fun even in the rain, and the sea around Miyakojima rarely becomes murky due to rain.
Other Questions
- Q. Are there showers or changing rooms at the end of the tour?
- A. There are no permanent shower or changing facilities at the site. However, we provide warm water you can pour over yourself like a shower, and a private changing tent where guests can change one at a time. Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for changing.
- Q. Does the boat have a toilet and shaded area?
- A. Yes. Our boat is equipped with a marine toilet and a shaded area to protect you from Miyakojima’s strong sunlight, so you can join the tour comfortably even if you are concerned about sun exposure.
- Q. Is the boat crowded?
- A. We limit guests to 12 people on a 25-passenger boat and 8 people on a 13-passenger boat to ensure comfort and safety. We never operate shared boats with other dive shops, even during peak seasons like Golden Week or Obon. You can relax on board without feeling crowded.
- Q. Will there be waiting time on the boat?
- A. No. Each group has a dedicated guide, so you’ll start diving as soon as we reach the spot. You won’t have to wait while others dive. Note: If you’re only doing one dive on a two-dive tour, you’ll wait on the boat after your dive.
- Q. I’m worried about getting seasick. How long is the boat ride?
- A. Around 15 minutes. Our dive boats depart from the nearest port to the dive spots around Irabu and Shimoji Islands, which helps minimize travel time and reduce the risk of seasickness.
