Marine Pal Yobuko (マリンパル呼子)

Flow of the course

About this spot

Departing from Yobuko Port, the sightseeing boat Ikamaru (イカ丸) — its hull uniquely shaped like a squid, true to its name — takes you to Nanatsugama (七ツ釜), a scenic spot carved out by the rough waves of the Genkai Sea. Nanatsugama is a nationally designated Natural Monument where seven sea caves line a basalt cliff, its neatly patterned columnar joints resembling a giant stone pipe organ. On calm days, the boat slowly enters the caves, drawing cheers at the contrast between the rocky ceiling looming overhead and the blue sea below. The power of the cliffs seen from the water is a completely different experience from viewing them on land — a Genkai Sea attraction unique to this stretch between the morning market and squid cuisine.

Tips

Departure times are fixed, so it's reassuring to check the day's schedule and operating status at the port ticket counter before planning around the morning market. On rough-wave days, sailings may be cancelled or the boat may not be able to enter the caves. The open sea can be choppy, so bring motion sickness medicine if you're prone to it. The deck can get windy with sea breeze, so watch that your hat doesn't blow away.

Best time to visit

About 1 hour. The boat ride itself is about 40 minutes; on calm-water days, you can experience the thrill of sailing right into the caves.

Access & map

〒847-0303 Yobuko, Yobuko-cho, Karatsu-shi, Saga-ken