ncl shore excursions japan

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All Ashore! — Cruise Excursions in Japan

Traveling to Japan by cruise is quickly becoming one of the more popular ways to experience this diverse destination with cruise lines from all over the world now docking in Japanese ports. Seeing more of the country, from the wild northern peaks of Hokkaido to the tropical beaches of Okinawa has never been easier with convenient access from ports to tourist highlights and must-see attractions. Check out this list for inspiration on planning the perfect excursion when going ashore in Japan. For this and more information, be sure to email us at [email protected] for a copy of our “Cruise Japan: A Destination Guide”.

Otaru is a quaint port town steeped in history from its days as a major herring fishing center. Nostalgic warehouses still line the picturesque canal district which is a few minutes’ walk from the cruise port. Take a further jaunt to the famous Nikka Whisky Distillery, located in Yoichi city about 12 miles west of Otaru, to find out what makes Japanese Whisky some of the best in the world.

Access Information from Otaru Port:

• City Center: 5 minutes by taxi or 15-minute walk
• Nearest Public Transit: Otaru Station (JR Hakodate Main Line) 5 minutes by taxi or 15-minute walk

Aomori City is located on the northern most portion of Japan’s main island. Annual festivals and beautiful natural scenery make Aomori an exciting port of call. The Nebuta Masturi Festival, a mainstay of summer, has giant paper lantern floats taking over the city. Hirosaki Castle is a must-see destination located about 1 hour from the cruise port.

Access Information from Aomori Port:

• Nearest Public Transit: Aomori Station (various lines) 5 minutes by taxi or 15-minute walk

Nagoya is an oft overlooked hub of Japan. Located between Tokyo and Osaka, the city boasts many interesting destinations such as the Toyota Automobile Museum and Nagoya Castle Park complete with Samurai Greeters. Try some of the local favorite dishes like grilled chicken wings or fried pork cutlets covered in a miso sauce. As a hub, Nagoya is also a jumping off point to see other great destinations in Japan.

Access Information from Nagoya Port:

• City Center: 20 minutes by taxi or 26 minutes by public transit
• Nearest Public Transit: Nagoyako Station (Meiko Subway Line) 2 minutes by taxi or 5-minute walk

Beppu, located on the eastern coast of Kyushu, is one of the most famous hot springs in Japan and by far the largest. Beppu is divided into eight hot spring areas. A sightseeing highlight is the “Tour of Hell,” a path in the Kannawa area. This tour is comprised of eight spectacular hot springs in a variety of colors to dazzle the eye. So, do like the locals and relax your travel weary body at any of the hot springs.

Access Information from Beppu Port:

• 10 minutes by taxi or 20 minutes by public transit
• Nearest Public Transit: Beppu Daigaku Station (Nippou Main Line) 5 minutes by taxi or 15-minute walk

Ishigaki Island is located about 260 miles southwest of Naha on the main island of Okinawa. This island is covered with mountains rising 1700 feet above sea level, the highest in Okinawa. Plunge underwater at Shiraho, famous for its array of colorful coral covering the bottom below the translucent waters. Take in the pristine waters of Kabira Bay, which is said to have the bluest ocean in all of Okinawa. Black pearl cultivation thrives in this area, making them a wonderful choice for souvenirs.

Access Information from Ishigaki Port:

• Nearest Public Transit: Ishigaki Bus Terminal 3 minutes by taxi or 5 - 10-minute walk

For more complete port information in Japan, please visit: http://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/cruise/

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From Culture to Adventure: The Ultimate Guide to NCL Shore Excursions by Port

If you’re planning a cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), one of the most exciting aspects is exploring the ports of call. With NCL’s wide range of shore excursions, you can immerse yourself in the culture, history, and natural wonders of each destination. Whether you’re seeking adventure or a more relaxed experience, NCL has something for everyone. In this ultimate guide, we’ll take a closer look at NCL shore excursions by port and help you make the most out of your cruise vacation.

Exploring Cultural Gems

One of the highlights of any cruise is experiencing the unique culture and heritage of different destinations. With NCL’s shore excursions, you can delve into the local traditions, art, and history at each port.

In Europe, for example, you can explore ancient ruins in Rome or Athens on guided tours that provide fascinating insights into these iconic cities. In Barcelona, visit world-renowned museums like the Picasso Museum or explore the Gothic Quarter with an expert local guide.

If you’re cruising in the Caribbean, immerse yourself in vibrant island cultures through activities like rum tasting tours in Jamaica or exploring historical landmarks in San Juan.

Thrilling Adventures

For those seeking an adrenaline rush during their cruise vacation, NCL offers a variety of thrilling shore excursions that cater to adventure enthusiasts.

In Alaska, embark on a helicopter tour to witness breathtaking glaciers from above or go dog sledding on snow-covered trails. For water lovers visiting Hawaii, snorkeling with manta rays or taking a thrilling zipline ride through lush rainforests are popular choices.

In Norway’s fjords region, join a kayaking expedition to get up close to majestic waterfalls and towering cliffs. And if you’re cruising in Australia or New Zealand, don’t miss out on opportunities for scuba diving, bungee jumping, or exploring the Great Barrier Reef.

Friendly Fun

NCL understands the importance of providing fun and engaging activities for families traveling together. Their shore excursions offer something for all ages, ensuring that everyone has an unforgettable time.

In the Bahamas, enjoy a day at Atlantis Paradise Island where you can swim with dolphins, go down thrilling water slides, or relax on pristine beaches. If you’re in Mexico’s Riviera Maya, visit Xcaret Park for a mix of cultural experiences and adventure activities like snorkeling in underground rivers.

For families cruising in Europe, NCL offers excursions that cater to kids and adults alike. In Florence, take a guided tour through the Uffizi Gallery or visit Pisa to see its famous leaning tower.

Customizing Your Experience

NCL understands that every traveler has unique preferences and interests. That’s why they offer a range of customizable shore excursions that allow you to tailor your experience to your liking.

If you’re an avid foodie, consider joining a culinary tour in destinations like Italy or France. Sample local delicacies and learn about traditional cooking techniques from expert chefs.

For those looking for a more personalized experience, NCL offers private tours with knowledgeable guides who can provide insider tips and recommendations based on your interests.

With NCL shore excursions by port, you can make the most out of your cruise vacation by exploring cultural gems, embarking on thrilling adventures, enjoying family-friendly activities, and customizing your experience. From ancient ruins in Europe to snorkeling in the Caribbean or dog sledding in Alaska – there is something for everyone with NCL shore excursions. So get ready to create unforgettable memories as you explore the world one port at a time.

This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.

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The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your NCL Shore Excursion

If you are planning a cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), you may be wondering how to make the most of your time on shore. Fortunately, NCL offers a wide variety of shore excursions that allow you to explore the destinations you visit in depth. In this ultimate guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know to plan your perfect NCL shore excursion.

Understanding NCL Shore Excursions

NCL shore excursions are organized tours that take place during port stops on your cruise itinerary. These excursions are designed to showcase the best of each destination and offer a range of activities for all interests and abilities. From cultural tours and historical landmarks to adventure sports and culinary experiences, there is something for everyone.

One of the benefits of booking an NCL shore excursion is that they are organized by experienced tour operators who have been vetted by the cruise line. This means that you can trust that the tour is safe, reliable, and offers good value for money.

Choosing Your NCL Shore Excursion

When it comes to choosing an NCL shore excursion, there are a few things to consider. First, think about your interests and what type of experience you want. Do you want to explore a city on foot or take a scenic drive through the countryside? Are you interested in history or do you prefer outdoor activities? There are excursions for all tastes.

Next, consider your physical abilities and any mobility concerns. Some excursions require walking or hiking over uneven terrain, while others may involve water sports or other physical activities. Make sure to read the excursion description carefully before booking.

Finally, think about your budget. Some excursions can be pricey, but remember that they often include transportation, guides, entrance fees, and other amenities that would cost more if booked independently.

Booking Your NCL Shore Excursion

Booking your NCL shore excursion is easy. You can either book online before your cruise or visit the shore excursion desk onboard. It’s recommended to book in advance to ensure availability and to secure your preferred tour time.

If you are traveling with a group, consider booking a private tour. This allows you to customize the itinerary and have a more personalized experience.

When booking, make sure to provide any necessary information such as dietary restrictions or mobility concerns. This will help ensure that the tour operator can accommodate your needs.

Making the Most of Your NCL Shore Excursion

To make the most of your NCL shore excursion, arrive at the meeting point early and be prepared with any necessary items such as sunscreen, water, and comfortable shoes. Listen carefully to your guide’s instructions and ask questions if needed.

Take advantage of any free time during the excursion to explore on your own or shop for souvenirs. And don’t forget to take plenty of photos.

Finally, remember that while NCL shore excursions are a great way to experience each destination, they are just one option. If you prefer more flexibility or want to save money, consider exploring on your own or booking an independent tour.

In conclusion, planning an NCL shore excursion is an exciting part of any cruise vacation. By understanding what they offer, choosing the right tour for you, booking in advance and being prepared for a fun day ahead will help you make unforgettable memories during your trip.

This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.

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Various Choices of Otaru Shore Excursions, Day Trips & Tours from Cruise Port

Was formerly the trading hub of Hokkaido, Otaru was the center of commerce between its homeland with Russia and China. Nowadays, even though its economic development has been a slowdown, foreign culture still marks a bold point in Otaru’ lifestyle. Especially, the city attracts with instagramable spots including Western-style buildings of stone and brick lining up by a picturesque canal. In fact, there is not such a place like Otaru in Japan, uniquely impressive with an exotic old-fashioned atmosphere. So, Otaru shore excursions are full of wonderful experiences and picturesque landmarks that worth your visit.

• Otaru Canal – the most famous sightseeing spot. Spend time hopping on a small boat along this fantastic canal
• Nishin Goten – the former Herring Fishery Manson
• Mt. Tengu Ropeway – provides a spectacular panoramic view overlooking to the ocean
• Sakaimachi-dori Shopping Street – enjoy both your gourmet and shopping time
• Otaru Sake Brewery – taste the famous traditional Japanese wine

We have a variety of Otaru shore excursions for cruise passengers to choose their favorite one. In case you would like to change the itinerary, please contact us here . Then, you will get a reply for your tailor-made tours from Otaru port within 24 hours. For more tours in other ports, visit our website .

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Top Things to do in Tokyo, Japan

Are you planning a cruise to Tokyo, Japan , but don't know what to do while there? Luckily, Norwegian Cruise Line wants to help you make the most of your vacation, so we've crafted this helpful list of top things to do in Tokyo.

Tokyo is a hub of modern skyscrapers and bustling nightlife, with many opportunities to experience this stunning city's ancient history and new-age amenities. Whether you want to relax in an onsen, visit the Imperial Palace, or immerse yourself in a one-of-a-kind foodie experience enjoying mouthwatering global cuisine, there are plenty of things to do to make any adventurer happy. Keep reading to explore some of the top things to do before or after your cruise vacation in Tokyo, Japan .

Ready to start planning? Explore all Tokyo cruises .

Visit the Tokyo National Museum

The Tokyo National Museum focuses on Japanese and Asian history. It combines the Independent Administrative Institution National Museum and the Independent Administrative Institution Research Institute of Cultural Properties. This dual focus allows the museum to direct its conservation, preservation, and education efforts. With a variety of permanent and ever-changing exhibitions, there's something new to see every time you visit.

The museum is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Be sure to look up any local holidays or special events, as the museum often closes during those times.

Relax at the Miharashi no Yu Hot Springs

Whether you have chronic pain or stiffness or just want a unique experience, the Miharashi no Yu hot springs is just the ticket. The hot springs offer a unique insight into the Japanese way of life. Since they stay at a steady 117.5 degrees Fahrenheit, they can relieve chronic pain, muscle stiffness, and other issues.

Miharashi no Yu is open from 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. daily but is often closed to the public on Tuesdays. It's open for most holidays. Another important thing to note is that the genders in the bathrooms change on odd and even days. In Japan, it's important to follow certain etiquette requirements at hot springs, including showering before entering.

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Get a Taste of Japan at Kioicho Fukudaya

Kioicho Fukudaya began as an inn in 1939 and can boast housing Nobel-prize winners, including Yaunari Kawabata and Hideki Yukawa. While the inn eventually moved, the delicious cuisine moved with Fukudaya to deliver a Michelin-starred experience. The restaurant is open from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for lunch and 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. for dinner, so be sure to make reservations well in advance to get a taste.

Seasonal special course menus include tasty treats, such as deep-fried pufferfish, Sanpo mochi, miso soup, and grilled blackfin seabass. If you don't want to wait for a reservation, Fukudaya also offers home delivery and a takeaway option, so you can get a Michelin experience without leaving the comfort of your hotel room.

Take Time To Reflect at Senso-Ji Shrine

As the oldest temple in Tokyo, Senso-Ji Shrine is a religious hub that draws over 30 million worshippers each year. There are many yearly events to join in, such as the first temple visit of the year that happens between Jan. 1 and Jan. 7 or the celebration of the Bodhisattva Kannon's appearance on March 18. There are 10 different sites to see - not including the pleasure walks in between each gate and building - such as Yogodo Hall, Awashimado Hall, and Niten-mon Gate.

Enjoy a Tokyo Cruise Tour

If you want to hand the planning reins over to someone else but still have memories to last a lifetime, you can sign up for a hassle-free Tokyo cruise tour to enjoy a four-day, three-night land tour with a Tokyo cruise. Other items that might be on your itinerary include the Meiji Shrine, a drive to the Imperial Palace Plaza, Sensoji Temple, Nakamise Shipping Street, and a trip to the Tokyo Tower.

You don't have to worry about lodging, as it's included in these tours. When booking your cruise tour, be sure to verify if the tour includes transportation to your ship so you can embark on your cruise vacation without worrying about how to get there.

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Planning Your Tokyo Adventure

Tokyo, Japan, offers a plethora of activities and otherworldly experiences that'll have you and your family talking about your Japan getaway for years. Planning an unforgettable vacation doesn't have to wait until you step aboard your cruise ship; you can start making memories before your cruise vacation. Japan offers historic landmarks, exciting city life, and gourmet food, so there's something for everyone in Tokyo to explore.

Whilst you're deciding which cruise holiday is right for you, be sure to sign up for emails to get the latest cruise deals and special offers delivered right to your inbox. Where are you cruising next? Tell us in the comments!

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NCL Excursion Reviews

By Coastalbreezes , May 16, 2016 in Norwegian Cruise Line

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Coastalbreezes

When I was deciding on what excursions to take on my upcoming cruise, I found it so helpful to read the reviews on NCL's website. Some excursions that sounded great had some terrible reviews and others enlightened me that it might be an hour catamaran ride followed by a 45 minute bus ride to get to a particular place (something I wouldn't be interested in).

One thing I did notice is that most excursions only had a few reviews (maybe a few had 10 or more but that was the minority).

Considering the thousands of people who take excursions, I was surprised that there weren't more reviews.

To those who post them, thank you. And if you do take a ship-sponsored trip, I would love to read about your experience. It really helps especially with the high cost involved for most of them.

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One thing I did notice is that most excursions only had a few reviews (maybe a few had 10 or more but that was the minority).   Tracy

I am a "Top 10" shoreex reviewer on NCL.com. The majority of the reviews that I have done over the years are no longer on the NCL website. I've never tied to figure out how it all works.

I had originally assumed that between seasons, tours were removed from the website when they were no longer offered. Then when the cruise line contracts with a tour provider for the next season, they were created with no reviews. Now I just don't know.

All I can say is that there were many more reviews written than what you find on the web site.

You would be shocked at how many posters just walk aimlessly around the ports and don't venture further...so no reviews needed

Many just take a cab to the beach...which is a perfect thing to do in the Carib...so no reviews

Sent from my iPad using Forums

When I was deciding on what excursions to take on my upcoming cruise, I found it so helpful to read the reviews on NCL's website. Some excursions that sounded great had some terrible reviews and others enlightened me that it might be an hour catamaran ride followed by a 45 minute bus ride to get to a particular place (something I wouldn't be interested in).   One thing I did notice is that most excursions only had a few reviews (maybe a few had 10 or more but that was the minority).   Considering the thousands of people who take excursions, I was surprised that there weren't more reviews.   To those who post them, thank you. And if you do take a ship-sponsored trip, I would love to read about your experience. It really helps especially with the high cost involved for most of them.   Tracy

Something to remember is that when booking an ncl excursion....you are basically using the same operators that you would book if booking on your own

Price notwithstanding....it is quite likely that you won't even be able to book a particular say snorkel excursion on your own in many case as ncl has already booked the boats for their excursions

When you can find a private snorkel excursion the prices are usually very high but you are getting more time

While you can dig around to find one I myself have found it easier to do certain excursions through the ship

Fwiw the last thing I want or need is a bus tour of an island. If I book ncl tours I want snorkeling or I can just grab a cab to a beach....which btw in a place like st kitts will also get you a stop on a mountaintop to see the monkeys and where the Atlantic and Carib meet.

Any taxi driver worth their salt in st kitts knows to stop there if you are going to that part of the island

99% of the time I am cruising solo so I only take NCL excursions because I don't feel comfortable jumping in a taxi alone.

I love going to the beach and for my upcoming cruise, I was about to book a certain beach excursion when I decided to read the reviews. Most of them talked about how rocky the beach was, lots of seaweed and how the local vendors refused to leave you alone. Not my idea of fun so I nixed the idea.

Fortunately by continuing to read additional reviews, I found the perfect beach trip.

I submitted a review of an excursion in Tangier that was a bit critical - NCL never published it.

Check out the ports of call you are visiting here on CC you will get more info than you will ever find on NCL's web site. Or any one ships web site.

Or check out Trip advisor.

The posted ones are approved by NCL so not everything gets posted.

That's too bad because I would think it would help others make an informed decision. I've also written some critical (yet honest) reviews and have had both my positive and negative ones published.

99% of the time I am cruising solo so I only take NCL excursions because I don't feel comfortable jumping in a taxi alone.   I love going to the beach and for my upcoming cruise, I was about to book a certain beach excursion when I decided to read the reviews. Most of them talked about how rocky the beach was, lots of seaweed and how the local vendors refused to leave you alone. Not my idea of fun so I nixed the idea.   Fortunately by continuing to read additional reviews, I found the perfect beach trip.   Tracy

I don't actually believe you would be solo in a taxi to the beach anyway.

They usually wait until the van is full or semi full and then try to agree on a pick up time at the beach for the group

That's been our experience anyway

We get in taxi...with others whom we do not know...but who usually are agreeable to whatever beach the group wants....although you can go to any beach you want but the dispatchers know to group riders by beach preference....then....

Upon drop off at the beach the group usually agrees to a pick up time....as no one wants to miss the ship

Its all very civilized and easy

The group can agree to make sure they locate you before they leave just to be sure you don't miss the ride back

No need to stay with them at the beach but honestly just agree to meet up at agreed upon time

All pax have the same concerns so you will be ok doing this IMHO

I have to debate the NCL sanctioned excursions. Coming off the Getaway back in the end of April, this was the first time I booked third party excursions (and one NCL) for this trip. And to be honest, I did a lot of reading here (CC) and with TripAdvisor to select my excursions. The cost savings is substantial when you are a family; (I had two adults and two kids). Every NCL excursion was a budget buster and I saved at least close to $200 per excursion going third party. Each one had absolute assurances to make sure you didn't miss your boat. Many rely on reviews to maintain their business model and they know we (Americans) like to speak our mines so many won't risk a bad review.

I did Cozumel (last port) on NCL as a "last minute" selection since we had nothing planned. The cost was the highest of all the excursions.

Do your homework and have confidence that there are plenty of good third party excursions out there.

Hope this helps.

Don't forget to join your roll call and go to the Meet & Greet! Most people on the roll call have already researched/arranged independent tours (many based on Trip Advisor reviews and are looking for people to round out their groups. If the groups are full, you can contact the tour operator directly about starting another group.

We have never done a ship-operated tour, most because they are so expensive, and the groups are always sooo large! On private tours, you have smaller groups/buses, so it is easier and faster to get around/stay ahead of the ship tours.

On our most recent cruise, we met up with a couple from our M&G. The husband would go ashore as soon as the ship was cleared, survey all the tour operators selling tours, and then negotiate a price for a group of us (made up of M&G'ers and other people we met on the cruise). We ended up saving a ton of money on these private excursions, and the service was often better because the companies are smaller and more reliant on good reviews on sites such as TA.

Last three posts = great suggestions!

• 5 years later...

Has this not changed in the last 6-years?  Still no way to post a tour review (I just poked around for 20 minutes and couldn't figure it out)?  The descriptions on their reviews leaves MUCH to be desired (ex. recent "7 hour tour including Mayan ruins etc"....but 6 of it is BUS transport time). 

I guess as the seller (and profiter), they are likely not going to want any negative reviews so I suppose I am not surprised, but I never realized they were so curated.

Happycrafter123

I really wish there were reviews posted for the NCL excursions too.  Upcoming Baltic cruise, and I’ve compared prices with other tour operators, when factoring in the free at sea discount, it really is about the same price give or take a couple dollars as going with non-NCL operators, but not sure of the quality, and really don’t like the risk of missing boat…. 

Sailing12Away

Best bet is to search in the port of call forums. That's where you'll get unfiltered and honest opinions on the best (and worst) cruise-sponsored tours, as well as options for ones found via Viator or private companies.

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Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan

An hour from the port city of Yokohama is the booming city of Tokyo. A visit to vibrant Tokyo reveals a mix of traditional and modern attractions: See the Imperial Palace, participate in a tea ceremony or shop in the legendary Ginza district. Tours also take passengers to the Meiji Shrine and the Senso-ji Temple. Many visitors opt to join an excursion to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for a boat trip on the lake, a cable car ride to Mount Komagatake and an unforgettable view of Mount Fuji.

Osanbashi Yokohama International Passenger Terminal 1-1-4 Kaigan-Dori Naka-ku Yokohama 231-0002 Yokohama, Japan

Parking is available on the first floor of the terminal. Payment for parking Japanese Yen only. Daikoku-Futo Cruise Terminal 13 Daikoku Pier, Tsurumi Ward Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture From Narita International Airport (NRT):

Take Higashi Kanto expressway from Tokyo's Narita International Airport. Continue driving on Higashi Kanto Expressway to Tokyo Higashi Kanto Expressway is connected to Expressway Wangan (Bay Shore Route) Line. (B-line) Continue driving on Expressway Wangan Line to Yokohama through Haneda Airport Then Across Tsurumi Bridge and Yokohama Bay Bridge. Turn off expressway Wangan line at Shin Yamashita exit no,351. After exiting, pass underneath the Expressway turn left at intersection in front of Custom office, then turn right at an intersection the name of Yamashitabashi. Go straight through Yokohama Port Tower and Yamashita Park to the Kaiko Hiroba-Mae intersection Then turn right at Kaiko Hiroba-Mae intersection then you will arrive at Obanshi Yokohama International Passenger Terminal.

From Haneda International Airport (HND):

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Naha, Okinawa Excursion

What to expect, what you'll get.

Visit some of the must-sees in Naha, like the vermillion Shurijo Castle and do some fun shopping in bustling Kokusai Dori Street. It is an excellent one-day tour for cruise ship passengers and visitors to Okinawa. They are looking to explore the capital of the islands in more depth.

Our Japan shore adventures are created by Western destination experts who live in Japan combined with local Japanese tour specialists to showcase all the best attractions in Japan and provide a unique understanding of Japan from a Western point of view. This is why our Japan tour packages are the most comprehensive and unparalleled.  

• Tour Shurijo Castle, a designated World UNESCO Heritage Site
• Join a glass-blowing class and get creative
• See the beautiful Shikinaen Garden

Join our guided tour in a chartered vehicle and visit Naha's top sightseeing spots. See the beautiful Shikinaen Garden and the Shurijo Castle, a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. Sample tasty Okinawan cuisine and try your skills in a glass-blowing class during our Naha shore excursion.  

Cruise passengers : You may get this excursion for FREE if you book the cruise through us or transferring your existing reservation to us (meaning we are your travel agent who booked the cruise for you with nothing changed). Please contact us to learn how. 

Naha Shore ADVENTURE

Explore the capital of Okinawa, Naha City, for a day. Enjoy the colorful, tropical feel, and explore the local history, culture, and cuisine. Try your skills in a glass-blowing class.

  *Departure times may vary. 

09:00 Depart from Naha Port

09:30 Visit Shurijo Castle, a World Heritage Site from 2000, which has served the proud and dignified Ryukyu Kingdom and the Shikina-en Garden, the royal garden in Okinawa Note: Shurijo Castle was damaged in a fire that broke out on its premises on October 31, 2019. Renovation began immediately, and the Castle is open to visit, however some areas remained closed off. 

11:30 Head to Suitenrou for lunch

12:00 Have lunch at Suitenrou, and enjoy a traditional Japanese set (self-pay)

13:30 Head to Naha City International Art and Craft

14:00 Reach Naha City International Arts and Crafts Center. Enjoy the exhibition and a workshop where you will blow and create your own glasswork!

15:30 Head to Naminoue Shrine

16:00 Visit Naminoue Shrine which is dedicated to Nirai Kanai, the land of gods similar to Heaven and source of all life

16:30 Head back to Naha Port

17:00 Reach Naha Port

Starting Point

Not included.

• English-speaking guide
• Private transportation (private cab, Toyota Alphard, Hi-Ace van - depending on the number of passengers)
• Glass blowing experience
• Admission fees
• Local lunch
• Any personal expenses incurred

 Naha Port  Tondocho 2-1, Naha, Okinawa 900-0035  

SAILING NEXT YEAR? EARLY BOOKING IS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED!

 We highly recommend that you book our shore excursions now if you will be taking a cruise in 2024. 2023 has already seen large crowds, and 2024 will see even more. We expect many tourists will be unable to book their shore excursions in 2024, so please make your plan as soon as possible. 

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Norwegian Cruise Line passengers were stranded on a small African island after missing a deadline to re-embark

• A couple says they were stranded on an island after missing their cruise ship's boarding time.
• They were on a tour of São Tomé and Príncipe with six others, per US local media. It overran.
• The stranded group flew to Gambia on Sunday, hoping to catch the ship at another port.

A couple says they were stranded on a small African island after they missed a cruise ship 's boarding deadline, according to local media.

Jay and Jill Campbell, from Garden City, South Carolina, described their ordeal with a Norwegian Cruise Line ship in an interview with WPDE, their local ABC affiliate.

Norwegian confirmed to Business Insider that they were denied boarding, saying it was their responsibility to be on time.

The Campbells said they were frequent cruisers, embarking on Norwegian Dawn on March 20 for their third voyage with the cruise line in a year.

However, an excursion last Wednesday with six other people to São Tomé and Príncipe , an island nation of some 220,000 people off West Africa, took an unfortunate turn.

The couple says the tour overran, and its operator informed the captain that eight passengers were running late.

They were refused entry to the ship upon their return, according to WPDE, even though they could still see the ship from the shore.

The ship was anchored, Jay Campbell said, but the captain refused to let them board despite repeated calls and emails by the passengers to the ship and the cruise line's emergency hotline.

The São Tomé and Príncipe Coast Guard even took the passengers to the ship, but they weren't able to get on and had to turn back, WPDE reported.

In total, WPDE said that nine passengers were not allowed to reenter the ship, including four elderly people and one person who is a paraplegic.

The Campbells told the news outlet that the ninth passenger was late for another reason — an 80-year-old woman who got a concussion on the island and was hospitalized there.

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Most of the stranded passengers didn't have their medication or working credit cards, WPDE said.

The Campbells, who had a working card, said they covered $5,000 worth of expenses for the group in food, toiletries, and hotel bills.

"We have never had an experience like this before," Jill Campbell told WPDE.

The Norwegian Cruise Line said in a statement provided to BI by email that eight guests on the tour missed the last tender back to the vessel.

The cruise line said the passengers missed the "all aboard time of 3 p.m. local time." It said it was a "very unfortunate situation" but that passengers were responsible for being on time.

It added that the deadline to return was "communicated broadly" over the ship's intercom, in printed communications, and on posts shown at the exits of the ship.

The elderly passenger who was concussed was returned to the US, where she has made a "safe return," a spokesperson for Norwegian Cruise Line said.

According to WPDE, the group flew to Gambia on Sunday, hoping to rejoin the ship at another port.

A spokesperson for the cruise line said that the ship could not safely dock in Gambia due to adverse weather conditions, adding that efforts are being made for the guests to rejoin the ship in Senegal on Tuesday.

Though cruise ships need to stay punctual, ruined-vacation stories like this are a reputational risk and might put people off.

For instance, two MSC Splendida passengers were stranded last summer at an Italian port after arriving too late for departure.

A TikTok video showed the couple waving and begging the crew to wait for them, even though the gangway appeared to have already been removed.

Other passengers may face the stress of becoming stranded in remote locations through no fault of their own. Last September, more than 200 people got stuck in a remote part of Greenland after their cruise ship ran aground.

And last November, passengers were stranded at a Brisbane port after a Royal Caribbean ship was overbooked.

Watch: Stowaways survive 14 days at sea clinging to a ship rudder

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