Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Cafeteria on the ferry “Akebono.”
Welcome aboard an “A” Line ferry!
Larger ships used for longer sailings always have a cafeteria on board. By and large, the
food is good and not unreasonably priced. For trips over twelve hours, more comfortable
overnight accommodations are available—at a price. All the ships on the longer routes offer
a variety of cabins: for two, for four and for eight. Private cabins generally have their own TV
sitting area and more comfortable berths than the tatami mats, but of course the mats are
free.
On all large ferries, you can always bring along your car or bike. That's one good reason
to take the ferry. However, because Japanese ferries are expensive, especially for vehicles, on
longer trips it's worth considering sailing without your vehicle (or flying) and then renting
a car, scooter or bicycle once there. On all of Okinawa's larger islands, you'll find car rent-
als and usually bicycle rentals. Scooters are more problematic. Sometimes they're available,
sometimes not. And if available, the dealer may or may not want a motorcycle license from
you.
Roads are often small but they're usually well maintained and safe. Island traffic is always
light. Driving in the Ryukyus, except for Okinawa main island, never poses the same chal-
lenges as it does in Tokyo. Finally, on larger islands, taxicabs are usually available and can
always be hired by the hour or the day. But they're never cheap. Count on 10,000 Yen (US
$125) for a half day. And don't forget to negotiate your fare before climbing in!
