Cruise port Zamami (Okinawa)
Live-Info for port Zamami (Okinawa)
Port information & tips for Zamami (Okinawa)
Zamami is a hidden gem of the Kerama Islands in Okinawa Prefecture and impresses with its untouched nature as well as its crystal-clear, deep blue water. The island enchants visitors with its relaxed, tropical atmosphere and simultaneously offers an impressive biodiversity beneath the ocean surface. Highlights include the world-famous Furuzamami Beach with its white coral sand and Ama Beach, where sea turtles can often be observed thanks to the seagrass meadows, while the Takatsukiyama Observatory provides a panoramic view of the entire archipelago. Ships dock at the central Zamami Port or use the convenient tender service, from where passengers can directly reach the charming village center and immediately immerse themselves in the island paradise thanks to the short distances.
Zamami is an idyllic island in the Okinawa Prefecture and is primarily reached via ferry connections from Naha on the main island of Okinawa. For cruise guests from the DACH region, the journey is therefore a combination of air travel and ferry transfer, whereby the small size of Zamami precludes a direct connection to highways or train stations on site.
Airplane (Arrival in Okinawa)
Arrival from the DACH region typically takes place via long-haul flight to Naha Airport (OKA) on Okinawa, the main airport of the prefecture. Direct flights from Frankfurt (FRA) are often not available; however, airlines such as ANA, Japan Airlines, or Lufthansa, in cooperation with partners, offer connections with a layover, for example in Tokyo or Seoul. The flight time is usually over 15 hours. Due to the long flight duration and the necessity of the ferry transfer, arriving in Naha at least one day before the scheduled embarkation is recommended.
Transfer to Naha Ferry Port
From Naha Airport (OKA), you can easily reach the Tomari Port in Naha, the departure point for ferries to Zamami. The airport is located about 5-6 kilometers from the ferry port. The fastest and most direct option is a taxi, which covers the distance in about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can use the Yui Rail (Okinawa Urban Monorail) from the airport to Miebashi Station, from where Tomari Port is about a 10-15 minute walk away. Local bus lines also run between the airport and the ferry port.
Ferry to Zamami & Pre-Cruise Hotel
Two types of ferries operate from Tomari Port in Naha to Zamami: the fast "Queen Zamami" (approx. 50-70 minutes travel time) and the slower "Ferry Zamami" (approx. 90-120 minutes travel time). Schedules vary seasonally; advanced reservation, especially during peak season, is highly recommended. Since ferry connections can be weather-dependent and international travel is time-consuming, a pre-cruise hotel in Naha is highly recommended. Numerous hotels near Tomari Port or along the Yui Rail offer comfortable accommodation options to start your cruise vacation relaxed. On Zamami itself, the ferry terminal is small and easy to navigate.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination area - is generally scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the voyage: For shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
