Kobe Bay Cruise

This cruise circles Kobe Port, departing from Nakatottei Chuo Terminal near Kobe’s landmark Kobe Port Tower. From the water, you can take in a 360-degree panorama of scenery that feels quintessentially Kobe, a true port city, including large shipbuilding sites, Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force submarines, Harborland, Port Island, and Meriken Park. On clear days, you may even catch a glimpse of the Akashi Strait in the distance.

Two ships are in service. The 45-minute Gozabune Atakemaru is modeled after the giant Atakemaru, built by order of Tokugawa Iemitsu, the third shogun of the Edo shogunate. Its exterior, decorated with curtains and noren, pairs with an eye-catching design that combines styles from across eras and regions like a mandala. Meanwhile, Royal Princess is one of the world’s largest sightseeing boats, with a lavish interior that creates a special cruise atmosphere.

Relax inside the ship, head up to the third-floor sky deck to feel the sea breeze, or spend your time however you like. Seasonal event cruises are also available, including Christmas night cruises and New Year’s Eve countdown cruises.