Shiretoko Rausu Whale & Bird Watching Cruise w/ Animal Commentary by the Captain
Coupon
Highlights
Discover a new side of Shiretoko
Get up close with sperm whales, orcas, dolphins, and shearwaters!
Guided by two experienced captains who know the sea of Shiretoko Rausu inside out!
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Overview
Shiretoko/ Abashiri
Available Daily
Pick-up not available
191177
10079
Coupons
What to expect
Depart from Rausu Port for a unique cruising experience, watching sperm whales, orcas, dolphins, and shearwaters. Enjoy Rausu's exclusive wildlife exploration course, offering more than just whale watching!
■Unforgettable Adventure with Sea Experts
Embark on a natural exploration journey beyond sightseeing. Discover the unique charm of the Shiretoko Peninsula from the Rausu side, with views of Kunashir Island and insights into local fishing and life.
■ Experienced Crew
Guided by a seasoned captain and a fully licensed team, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience.
Masato Hasegawa
● Role/Experience
Captain of the EverGreen
● Biography
Born in 1961 in Rausu into a family of fishermen spanning three generations.
After graduating from high school in Kushiro, he followed in his family's footsteps and entered the fishing industry.
At 24, he became the captain of the "Choei Maru," managing fishing operations in Rausu.
He fished for walleye pollock in Rausu during winter and squid off the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture from spring to autumn.
In 2002, he left the family fishing business, which had continued for four generations, to pursue a career in Shiretoko tourism.
Check availability
Whale, Dolphin, and Bird Watching
Total:
Price per Adult :
Adult (Age 13 & over)
USD 59.86
Total:
Adult (Age 13 & over)
USD 59.86
Price per Adult :
■Duration: About 2.5 hours
Elementary school (Age 6-12)
USD 29.27
Infant (Age 0-5)
free
Overview
Morning, Afternoon
Available Daily
Without pick-up
Inclusions: Cruise fee / Experience fee / Life jacket (mandatory during navigation; children's sizes available)
Schedule
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Start time :
08:30
Gather at the Shiretoko Nature Cruise Office (about 2.5 hours)
Receprion
Complete boarding procedures at the Shiretoko Nature Cruise Office. Please finish the procedures at the ticket office at least 30 minutes before departure.
09:00
Move to the Evergreen Boarding Area at Rausu Port, Set Sail
It's about a 5-minute walk from the ticket office to the Evergreen boarding area at Rausu Fishing Port.
Lecture
After departure, staff will provide a briefing on safety and how to spot wildlife.
Cruising Tour Begins
Join the staff in searching for whales and birds during the cruise. When animals are spotted, announcements will be made via microphone and onboard speakers. Staff will also provide information on the animals' behavior and characteristics.
Watch sperm whales, orcas, dolphins, and shearwaters up close!
Witness sperm whales, dolphins, orcas, and shearwaters against the Shiretoko mountains and Kunashir Island. Experience a unique wildlife cruise in Rausu!
End of Cruising Tour
Location
Pick-up/Check-in Time & Location
Drop-off/Check-out Time & Location
Location
Location, direction and description
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【By Bus】
Nearest stops:
- Akan Bus "Rausu Honcho"
- Shari Bus terminal "Rausu Office"
*For the latest information, please check the Shiretoko Rausu Town Tourism Association website.
【By Car】
- About 1.5 hours from Nemuro Nakashibetsu Airport
- About 3 hours from Memanbetsu Airport
- About 3.5 hours from Kushiro Airport
The Shiretoko Nature Cruise ticket office is located behind the roadside station "Shiretoko Rausu" along Route 335. You can also access it by descending the stairs next to the roadside station.
*Note: The Shiretoko Crossing Road (Route 334) connecting Rausu Town and Utoro in Shari Town is closed during winter. The closure typically lasts from November to the end of April, but even after reopening, there may be time restrictions until the end of May. If coming from Utoro, please check road conditions in advance.
Parking information
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The office parking space or the spacious parking area near the boarding location will be available after completing the boarding procedures.
Important activity information
To ensure the best experience, please read the restrictions and requirements before booking.
Important activity information
Restrictions
- If less than 5 participants are booked, the activity may not operate.
- There are no age restrictions. If you are bringing small children, please ensure they are supervised at all times.
- Participation is possible during pregnancy, but it is at your own risk. (If concerned, please inquire in advance.)
- Boarding is not possible with a wheelchair due to narrow passages and many steps on the vessel. However, staff can assist with boarding and disembarking for those who can walk to some extent.
- Pets: Not allowed
- Smoking is prohibited on board.
Other requirements
- If there are fewer than five participants or due to sea conditions, the boat may not depart. Please call to confirm the day before your scheduled boarding. If no confirmation is received, your reservation may be considered canceled.
Booking requirements (# of participants, vehicles, hours, etc.)
- You can book a maximum of 20.
Required items to bring & attire
- If you're concerned about seasickness, please bring your own motion sickness medication.
- In Rausu, unlike Utoro, temperatures often don't reach 20°C even in midsummer, and it feels colder at sea. Please bring a jacket and take measures to stay warm when boarding.
Additional notes
- The activity schedule is subject to change or cancellation due to weather or traffic conditions.
- Departure times and duration may vary slightly.
- Cancellations or passenger limits may be implemented due to sea conditions.
- Whales and dolphins are wild animals, so sightings are not guaranteed.
- Cruisers are more affected by waves than larger ships, so they may sway. Please be cautious when moving around inside the boat.
- Damage to cameras from sea spray, breakage due to the boat's movement, or loss of belongings overboard is at your own risk.
- Sailing may proceed in the rain, depending on sea conditions. (Raincoats are available for purchase on-site.) You are free to move in and out of the cabin, so feel free to make use of it.
- Until the end of May, the Shiretoko Crossing Road connecting Utoro and Rausu Town opens with time restrictions. Please check the opening times carefully, as you may not make it in time for the 9:00 departure.
Reviews
Activity Provider Shiretoko Nature Cruise
Activity Provider
FAQ
Please visit VELTRA Support page to send an inquiry about this activity.
Payment / Cancellation Policy
Payment Methods
- Credit card payment
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Cancellation Policy
- There is no cancellation fee. Please just notify us if you need to cancel.
Operation days
- Everyday
Payment / Cancellation Policy
Payment Methods
- Credit card payment
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Cancellation Policy
- There is no cancellation fee. Please just notify us if you need to cancel.
Top-Rated Activities for Shiretoko/ Abashiri
Restrictions
- If less than 5 participants are booked, the activity may not operate.
- There are no age restrictions. If you are bringing small children, please ensure they are supervised at all times.
- Participation is possible during pregnancy, but it is at your own risk. (If concerned, please inquire in advance.)
- Boarding is not possible with a wheelchair due to narrow passages and many steps on the vessel. However, staff can assist with boarding and disembarking for those who can walk to some extent.
- Pets: Not allowed
- Smoking is prohibited on board.
Required items to bring & attire
- If you're concerned about seasickness, please bring your own motion sickness medication.
- In Rausu, unlike Utoro, temperatures often don't reach 20°C even in midsummer, and it feels colder at sea. Please bring a jacket and take measures to stay warm when boarding.
Other requirements
- If there are fewer than five participants or due to sea conditions, the boat may not depart. Please call to confirm the day before your scheduled boarding. If no confirmation is received, your reservation may be considered canceled.
Additional notes
- The activity schedule is subject to change or cancellation due to weather or traffic conditions.
- Departure times and duration may vary slightly.
- Cancellations or passenger limits may be implemented due to sea conditions.
- Whales and dolphins are wild animals, so sightings are not guaranteed.
- Cruisers are more affected by waves than larger ships, so they may sway. Please be cautious when moving around inside the boat.
- Damage to cameras from sea spray, breakage due to the boat's movement, or loss of belongings overboard is at your own risk.
- Sailing may proceed in the rain, depending on sea conditions. (Raincoats are available for purchase on-site.) You are free to move in and out of the cabin, so feel free to make use of it.
- Until the end of May, the Shiretoko Crossing Road connecting Utoro and Rausu Town opens with time restrictions. Please check the opening times carefully, as you may not make it in time for the 9:00 departure.
Booking requirements (# of participants, vehicles, hours, etc.)
- You can book a maximum of 20.
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Booking period:
Coupon Participation Period:
Coupon Participation Period:
- Valid for one (1) booking per account during the designated promotional period.
- Cannot be used on the same activity on the same date and time as the first activity, or applied to activities that have already been booked.
Shiretoko Rausu Whale & Bird Watching Cruise w/ Animal Commentary by the Captain
Depart from Rausu Port for a unique cruising experience, watching sperm whales, orcas, dolphins, and shearwaters. Enjoy Rausu's exclusive wildlife exploration course, offering more than just whale watching!
