Access to the islands

A JOURNEY ACROSS THE OCEAN

Travel to the Bonin Islands is only possible by ship as there is no airport on the archipelago. This limited access has curbed the more harmful effects of mass tourism and is a key reason nature has been so well preserved here.

Departures from the mainland are either once or twice a week from the conveniently located Takeshiba pier in central Tokyo. The journey takes 24 hours one way and tickets can be bought up to 2 months prior to departure.

Tips for a comfortable TRIP

Passing the 24h on Ogasawara Maru can be done in many different ways, here are some friendly tips for a comfortable journey.

Bring books, videos or games to pass the time
Regardless of whether you are traveling alone or in a group, there may be times when you want to entertain yourself alone. Please note that there is no WiFi onboard and no mobile coverage during extended sections of the crossing.
Keep suitable clothing accessible
The Ogasawara Maru is air conditioned, however individual preferences mean that it might be a little cold or warm for your liking. We suggest you pack suitable clothing for both possibilities.
Food on the boat
Restaurant Chichijima serves a range of food such as noodles, steak, fried chicken, fish etc on the 4th deck. There is also a cafe on the 7th deck (Hahajima Lounge) that serves simple curry rice and sandwiches and sells beer. There is also a small kiosk on deck 6 (Shop Dolphin) that sells snacks, coffee and drinks. However, if you have specific dietary requirements, please consider bringing your own supplies as the selection on the boat is limited. Many travelers stock up on snacks & supplies before departing.
Make sure you have cash
All payments in the restaurants and the kiosk on the ferry are cash only. Make sure you bring some cash if you plan on buying anything whilst onboard.
Use sunscreen or cover your skin to avoid burns
UV radiation in the vicinity of the island is about 7 times as strong as in Tokyo. Please be careful and wear sun protective clothing and/or apply sunscreen if you spend time outside on deck.

About the ship – Ogasawara Maru

The ship that carries passengers and supplies to the island every week is called the Ogasawara Maru.
It is the lifeline for the businesses and the inhabitants on the islands. The Ogasawara Kaiun Company has been sailing to the island for over 50 years. The current ship was built in 2016 and is the 3rd generation of the Ogasawara Maru and has reduced the total journey time by an hour and a half, from 25.5 hours down to 24. Fully air conditioned and equipped with stabilising fins and modern efficient engines, the ship provides a safe and comfortable environment in which to enjoy your journey.

**History of the ships that have serviced the islands**
SHIP NAME	SERVICE PERIOD	JOURNEY TIME
Tsubaki Maru	1972-73	44 hours
Chichijima Maru	1973-79	38 hours
First Ogasawara Maru	1979-97	28 hours
Second Ogasawara Maru	1997-16	25.5 hours
Third Ogasawara Maru	2016-	24 hours

Frequently asked questions

Can we see whales and dolphins from the ship?

Both dolphins and whales live in the waters close to the islands. However, these are wild animals and it is impossible to predict when or where they might choose to appear. You never know, you might be lucky so please keep an eye on the ocean! Many sea birds also fly close to the ship during the journey.

Is there any WiFi on the ship?

There is no WiFi on the ship. Mobile phones can be used while we are still in Tokyo Bay and when we pass near some other islands on route. Please note that there are long periods in the open ocean with no connectivity at all.

What about high waves?

The ship is equipped with stabilizing fins to reduce the effect of rough seas. However, the ocean can be unpredictable and there may be times of significant movement on the boat. If you are sensitive to sea-sickness we recommend you bring suitable medication.

What if a typhoon approaches?

When a typhoon or a storm approaches there are often warnings a few days prior. Whenever possible the ship will sail before or after the storm hits to avoid any inconvenience or risk to the passengers. Due notice will be given to passengers if the sailing schedule is changed.

Is it possible to smoke on the ship?

Yes, there is a designated smoking room on deck 5. Please note smoking is prohibited elsewhere on the ship.

Can we use credit cards on the ship & islands?

Credit cards are accepted at some locations on the islands (mainly restaurants and hotels), but not on the ship. We recommend you bring cash to avoid any problems with payments. There are ATMs on the islands that accept international cards. A Post office ATM is located at the ferry terminal and in the main village on Chichijima. There is also a post office ATM on Hahajima Island.

Can we ship cargo separately?

In general you can only bring as much luggage as you can carry yourself. If you intend to bring larger items such as surfboards, bikes etc, you need to make separate arrangements with Ogasawara Kaiun for cargo shipment.