Naha: “Orca” Spotting Glass Bottom Boat & Sams Famous Steak

Travelers visiting Okinawa often seek memorable experiences that combine stunning scenery with authentic local flavors. For those who enjoy a gentle underwater adventure paired with hearty Japanese cuisine, the “Orca” Glass Bottom Boat Tour coupled with a visit to Sams Sailor Inn offers just that. Priced at $37 per person, this experience provides a relaxed, family-friendly way to explore Okinawa’s vibrant marine life without getting wet, followed by a satisfying meal on lively Kokusai Street.

Two things we love about this tour are how easy it is to access, with departures just a short walk from the monorail station, and the delicious, well-prepared meals that cater to different tastes with both meat and seafood options. The panoramic underwater views through the glass bottom are another highlight, offering a unique, no-sweat glimpse of Okinawa’s rich ocean life.

A potential consideration is that some travelers, like Mauro, have been disappointed by the actual sightings, noting that “there are no Orca! … the only thing you can see are some small fish.” So, if you’re expecting to spot large marine mammals, this might not meet those expectations. However, if you’re curious about Okinawa’s sea and enjoy a laid-back activity, this tour still offers plenty of charm.

This experience suits families, seniors, or anyone who prefers dry, comfortable sightseeing and enjoys combining natural beauty with delicious food. It’s especially appealing if you’re planning to explore the vibrant streets of Naha afterward, thanks to its convenient location.

Key Points

• Accessible location: Easy to reach via public transportation from Asahibashi Station.
• Underwater views: Panoramic glass-bottom boat provides a unique, dry way to see Okinawa’s marine life.
• Flexible meal options: Choose between a hearty steak or seafood course—both satisfying and well-prepared.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for all ages, including those who prefer to stay dry.
• Weather-dependent: Tours may be canceled or altered due to ocean conditions.
• Authentic local experience: Follow the boat ride with a visit to a popular, historic restaurant on Kokusai Street.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Access

The tour begins at the Naha Port Passenger Terminal, a convenient spot just a short walk from Asahibashi Station. The check-in at the West Marine counter happens about 20 minutes before departure, giving you a comfortable window to gather your thoughts, confirm your reservation, and soak in the lively port atmosphere. This location’s proximity to public transportation makes it easy to include in a day of exploring Naha without needing a rental car.

The Glass Bottom Boat: A Calm Underwater Affair

The core of this experience is the “Orca” sightseeing boat. It’s an ideal choice for travelers who want an underwater glimpse without the hassles of snorkeling or diving. You’ll board a boat designed with a large glass panel at the bottom, allowing you to peer into the ocean as it glides over coral reefs and tropical fish.

The boat’s design offers stunning panoramic views—think of it as walking on the seabed without getting wet. The experience is particularly suited for families, seniors, or anyone who might feel uneasy about swimming in open water. Even in winter, when waves can be higher, the boat’s stability keeps the ride smooth and enjoyable.

The Reality of Marine Sightings

While the tour’s name suggests the chance to see orcas, the reality is that sightings are not guaranteed. One reviewer, Mauro, noted, “There are no Orca! That’s the name of the boat and the only thing you can see are some small fish.” This highlights a common point of confusion but also reminds us that the appeal lies more in the spectacle of underwater scenery than in spotting large marine mammals.

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What to Expect on the Boat

Expect a relaxed, approximately 45-minute ride over Okinawa’s coral reefs, with plenty of time to gaze through the expansive glass panels and enjoy the gentle rocking of the boat. The crew is usually friendly and knowledgeable, offering briefings about the sea life below, although details are often minimal.

The Food Experience at Sams Sailor Inn

After your aquatic adventure, it’s time for a hearty meal at Sams Sailor Inn, a restaurant with a long-standing reputation on Kokusai Street. Located about 30 minutes on foot or easily accessible via public transport, this spot offers live teppanyaki cooking—so you can watch skilled chefs prepare your meal right in front of you.

The menu offers two main options: Steak or Seafood, with each meal including sirloin steak (150g), special soup, garden salad, teppanyaki vegetables, and rice. The seafood choice features white fish with sea urchin flavor, shrimp, and mussels. Both are praised for being satisfying and flavorful, making this a good value for the price.

Additional Details

• Reservation & Flexibility: You can reserve in advance and choose to pay later, which adds flexibility if your plans change.
• Timing: Tours run daily, with departures at 10:15 AM or 11:45 AM, giving you options to suit your schedule.
• Transportation: Both the port and restaurant are accessible via public transit, making this activity easy to include in a busy Naha itinerary.
• Weather considerations: Ocean and weather conditions can impact the tour, and cancellations are decided by 3 p.m. the day before. Always check updates to avoid surprises.

Who This Tour Suits

This experience resonates most with families, elder travelers, or anyone preferring dry, relaxed sightseeing. If you’re curious about Okinawa’s marine environment but aren’t eager to get in the water, the glass-bottom boat is a calm, engaging way to see underwater life. The combined meal at Sams Sailor Inn makes it a great full-day outing, especially if you enjoy hearty Japanese-style cooking.

Final Thoughts

The “Orca” Glass Bottom Boat Tour paired with a lunch at Sams Sailor Inn offers a practical, low-stress way to experience Okinawa’s marine beauty and local cuisine. While it might not deliver the dramatic whale or orca sightings some might hope for, it compensates with beautiful underwater views and a delicious, authentic meal.

Travelers seeking a safe, family-friendly activity that blends gentle exploration with comfort will find this tour a worthwhile addition to their Naha itinerary. It’s especially suitable if you want to avoid strenuous activities but still enjoy Okinawa’s unique ocean environment and vibrant street life afterward.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s perfect for families, especially since it offers a dry, safe way for kids to see underwater scenery without swimming.

Can I see orcas or large marine mammals?
Unfortunately, no. The boat is called “Orca,” but reviews indicate that sightings of large marine mammals are unlikely. The main attraction is the panoramic underwater view.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The tour departs from Naha Port Passenger Terminal, which is about a 10-minute walk from Asahibashi Station on the monorail.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for weather conditions; rained or windy days might cause cancellations. Bring sunscreen and a hat for sun protection if sunny.

Are meals included?
Yes, the price covers a full steak or seafood lunch, including sides and soup. Drinks are extra.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour may be canceled or rescheduled due to weather or ocean conditions. The operator decides by 3 p.m. the day before, so keep an eye out for updates.

This tour is a straightforward, enjoyable way to experience Okinawa’s sea life and cuisine at a reasonable price. Though it may not satisfy those seeking dramatic marine encounters, it offers comfort, convenience, and a taste of local hospitality—all in one delightful package.

You can check availability for your dates here: