Blue Cave Introductory Dive — Private Guided Boat Tour at Okinawa's Blue Cave
Step aboard for a short boat ride to Okinawa’s Blue Cave, where sunlight turns seawater an electric blue and a private instructor guides first-time divers through shallow coral gardens. This guided intro offers full gear, free photos, and calm conditions ideal for non-swimmers.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive Early for Check-In
Plan to arrive 20–30 minutes before your slot to complete medical and weight checks and get fitted for gear.
Protect Your Ears
Practice equalizing before the dive and descend slowly under instructor direction to avoid ear pain.
Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Apply biodegradable sunscreen before arrival to protect coral and avoid oily residues on gear.
Expect Short Boat Transfers
The operator’s shop is a one-minute walk from the port and the boat ride to the cave is only about five minutes — secure loose items.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Cape Maeda viewpoint — quick coastal walk with west-facing sea views
- •Small seaside cafés near the port serving fresh local seafood and Okinawan soba
Wildlife
- •Green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas)
- •Tropical reef fish such as damselfish and butterflyfish
Conservation Note
Avoid touching reef or stirring sediment; use reef-safe products and follow guide instructions to minimize impact on sensitive corals and marine life.
The coastline here is part of the Ryukyu chain; the limestone reef and caves formed from coral uplift and wave erosion, and local fishing traditions still shape coastal life.
What to Bring
Shorty or Full WetsuitEssential
Keeps you warm during surface intervals and in cooler months; shop provides options.
Mask & SnorkelEssential
Useful for surface swims and easing into breathing through a regulator; many operators supply these.
Reef-Safe SunscreenEssential
Protects skin and the coral reef — apply before arrival and reapply after diving.
Motion-Sickness Medication
Take prior to the boat ride if you are prone to seasickness; the trip is short but can be choppy.
Common Questions
Do I need a scuba certification to join this dive?
No certification is required; this is an introductory dive with full supervision and basic skill practice led by an instructor.
What are the age and health restrictions?
Operators often have minimum age requirements and will not accept participants with serious heart or respiratory conditions or pregnant travelers; you'll complete a health declaration before diving.
How deep do introductory dives go at the Blue Cave?
Introductory dives at the Blue Cave are typically shallow — commonly under 10 meters — to ensure safety and comfort for new divers.
Will guides take photos or video?
Yes — this tour includes free photo and video service with files transferred to your phone after the dive (up to the operator’s stated limit).
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2–3 hours
Location
Onna, Okinawa Prefecture
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for people comfortable in the water and able to follow breath-hold and basic swimming instructions; minimal fitness required.
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