西海観光船

Nishiumi-Kankousen is situated in the heart of the national park in Minamiuwa-gun, Ehime. For three decades, the centre has operated as a professional marine specialist, focusing heavily on the protection and observation of the local coral reefs and diverse marine life.

The centre offers a variety of ways to experience the underwater world, from traditional scuba diving to more accessible activities like Sea Walker and snorkeling. Whether you are looking to observe the reef from a glass-bottom boat or want to explore the seabed on foot, the location provides direct access to a rich marine environment.

The team includes instructors from the national park who guide visitors through the local waters. Their long-standing commitment to the area is evidenced by their 30 years of involvement in marine conservation, including regular beach clean-ups and coral protection initiatives.

As a Green Fins certified centre, the staff operates with a high standard of environmental responsibility. All instruction and guiding are conducted in Japanese, providing a local and authentic perspective on the ecosystem.

The centre provides opportunities to obtain diving licences, with these courses being available from June to October. These programmes are designed to introduce new divers to the underwater environment through structured training.

In addition to licence acquisition, the centre supports various marine activities that allow you to build confidence in the water, such as Sea Walker and guided snorkeling tours.

The centre operates a glass-bottom boat designed specifically for observing the coral reefs and marine life without getting wet. This vessel allows for close-up views of the underwater environment, making it an ideal option for those interested in marine biology or those who prefer not to dive.

The boat has a capacity for 15 people, making it suitable for small groups or families looking to explore the coastal waters of the national park.

For those choosing to participate in water activities, a range of equipment is available for hire, including masks, snorkels, and fins. This allows divers and snorkelers to arrive with minimal kit if they prefer not to carry their own.

Full equipment hire is available to ensure you have everything required for your session on the water.

The marine life in this area is defined by its vibrant coral ecosystems. You will find a diverse array of corals and numerous fish species that inhabit the reef structures, creating a busy and colourful underwater landscape.

Macro life and smaller inhabitants are abundant throughout the reefs. The area is known for its variety of fish that rely on the coral for shelter and food, providing plenty of interest for both snorkelers and divers.

Specific seasonal highlights include the period from mid-July to mid-August, which is an ideal time to visit the waters around Kashima Island to observe the local fauna in its most active state.

The local environment is subject to seasonal changes, with summer being the recommended period for snorkeling activities. Divers should be mindful of the local conditions, as currents and swell can become more pronounced after 16:00.

Environmental maintenance, such as water cleaning works, can occur in August, which may affect local activities during that month.