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Set sail on the Okhotsk Sea to see whales, dolphins, and other marine life
Abashiri Tourism Association
Few seas in the world are richer in biodiversity than the Sea of Okhotsk. Whales, dolphins, and other marine life are drawn to its waters as they migrate between warm and cool habitats. Captain Maeda, a sea fishing veteran, knows all the prime spots for watching these mammals as they swim off the coast of Abashiri, Hokkaido. Step aboard his ship and you are likely to encounter fin whales, common minke whales, and harbor porpoises.
Spring is best for whale watching, when huge fin whales, smaller minke whales, and bottle-nosed Baird’s beaked whales are known to roam the waters. To see the antics of dolphins and porpoises, take a cruise during summer or autumn.
Wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, but Maeda’s 40 years of experience at sea means you’ll have the best chance of success. He will sail you as far as 37 km from the coast of Abashiri to get you as close as possible without disturbing the sea animals. If you are lucky, you may even witness the tail flicks of rarer sperm, humpback, or killer whales.
How to get there
From Sapporo Station, take the limited express train to JR Abashiri Station. The nature cruise starts a 20-minute walk or a 10-minute drive from the station.
4 Higashi, Minami 3-jyou, Abashiri-shi, Hokkaido
