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Abashiri Drift Ice Sightseeing Icebreaker Ship "Aurora"
Sail through a world of silver! A special winter-only landscape.
From late January to late March, the Sea of Okhotsk is covered in drift ice and Abashiri turns into a silver world. You can experience this magical scene up close with a cruise aboard the drift ice sightseeing icebreaker ship "Aurora."
During the roughly one-hour cruise, you can comfortably admire the drift ice from the heated interior of the ship. From the free seats on the first floor, you can get a close view from the sea-facing sofas, and from the side deck, you can enjoy the beauty of the drift ice from the closest point to the water.
The second floor features a spacious special room, with 50 designated seats available on a first-come, first-served basis. For a more dynamic experience, the observation deck is recommended. Here, you can feel the sound and impact of the ship breaking through the drift ice—a thrilling viewing spot.
If you're lucky, you might encounter seals relaxing on the ice or see wild animals like Steller's sea eagles resting their wings.
The ship also has a coffee lounge and a shop where you can buy souvenirs.
Highlights
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A sightseeing ship that operates from late January to late March.
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Each boarding point offers different ways to enjoy the drift ice.
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Be sure to prepare thoroughly for cold weather before boarding.
Photos
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![The surroundings are a vast silver world, and the ship sails through it.]()
The surroundings are a vast silver world, and the ship sails through it.
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![The first floor has free seating, and you can also step out onto the side deck.]()
The first floor has free seating, and you can also step out onto the side deck.
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![The special seats on the second floor offer a spacious and relaxed area. Since they are designated seats for the day, it's recommended to reserve early.]()
The special seats on the second floor offer a spacious and relaxed area. Since they are designated seats for the day, it's recommended to reserve early.
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![The view changes depending on the time of your cruise, so be sure to check the operation schedule!]()
The view changes depending on the time of your cruise, so be sure to check the operation schedule!
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![If you're lucky, you might even spot a Steller's sea eagle resting its wings on the drift ice.]()
If you're lucky, you might even spot a Steller's sea eagle resting its wings on the drift ice.
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Do you have signs or pamphlets in foreign languages? (If you do, which languages are available?)
English and Chinese available.
Q
Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?
Available inside the roadside station (道の駅), Not available on the ship.
Q
Are coin lockers available?
Available inside the roadside station (道の駅), Not available on the ship.
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Is a reservation necessary for boarding?
Yes
Q
Are there any smoking areas?
Available inside the roadside station (道の駅), No smoking on the ship.
Reviews
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 網走流氷観光砕氷船おーろら
- Postal Code
- 093-0003
- Address
- 4-5-1 Minami3johigashi, Abashiri City, Hokkaido
- Telephone
- 0152-43-6000
- Closed
- No regular holidays during the operation period.
- Business Hours
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From January 20th to 31th 9:00am - , 11:00am - , 1:00pm - , 3:00pm -
From February 1st to March 14th 9:30am - , 11:00am - , 12:30pm - , 2:00pm - , 3:30pm -
From March 15th to 31th 9:30am - , 11:30am - , 1:30pm –
*Reception hours: 8:00am - 5:00pm
*Only reservation by call is accepted on the day of - Admission
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February:
Adults(junior high school students and older) 5,000yen, Elementary school students 2,500yen
January・March:
Adults(junior high school students and older) 4,500yen, Elementary school students 2,250yen - Access
- About 8 minutes by car from JR Senmo Main Line’s Abashiri Station.
- Credit Cards
- Not accepted
- Official Website
- Official Website (Japanese)