In recent years, Balas Island (the Island of Miracles) has not appeared.
Posted Date: 2019/07/11
バラス島（奇跡の島）
I participated in a tour with the goal of visiting Baras Island (Miracle Island), but I was shocked to learn from the guide that Baras Island (Miracle Island) has not appeared in recent years. I was surprised that the tour was still being advertised under those circumstances. Is there no issue with the product listing? Of course, other tour companies are in the same situation as well.バラス島（奇跡の島）を目的にツアーに参加しましたが、ガイドさんより教えられて衝撃だったのは、この数年、バラス島（奇跡の島）は現れずという事実。その状態でツアーを募集していることに驚きました。商品掲示的に問題ないんでしょうか。もちろん、他のツアー社でも同じ状態なのですが。
Machine translated from Japanese
The guide...
Posted Date: 2022/08/04
シュノーケル大好き
He may not be a bad person at heart, but he seemed impatient, drove roughly, and had an unpleasant demeanor at times. It was disappointing since we came from far away to participate. It seems like he is doing everything alone, which must be tough, but I don't think we will ask for his services again. I believe it just wasn't a good fit for us.根は悪い人ではないのでしょうが、せっかちな感じで、運転が荒く、感じ悪いな、という面がちょこちょこ見られ、せっかく遠くから参加したのに、残念な気持ちでした。 一人でやってらっしゃるようなので、大変でしょうが、またお願いすることはないと思います。 私たちには合わなかっただけだと思います。
Machine translated from Japanese
Reply from the operator
Thank you for your feedback. Normally, I do not respond to comments, but this time I would like to share my perspective for the benefit of other customers.
First of all, I apologize for the rough driving. Here are the reasons for it.
Initially, it was pointed out that you arrived at the office around 10 AM instead of the scheduled meeting time of 1 PM. You contacted us around noon to drop off your luggage. Between 12 PM and 1 PM, we were busy with morning customer pickups, cleaning up equipment, a… Thank you for your feedback. Normally, I do not respond to comments, but this time I would like to share my perspective for the benefit of other customers.
First of all, I apologize for the rough driving. Here are the reasons for it.
Initially, it was pointed out that you arrived at the office around 10 AM instead of the scheduled meeting time of 1 PM. You contacted us around noon to drop off your luggage. Between 12 PM and 1 PM, we were busy with morning customer pickups, cleaning up equipment, and preparing for afternoon customers.
Despite the busy schedule, I felt it was important not to dismiss your sudden request, so I accepted it. You then mentioned wanting to go to a café before 1 PM, so I recommended a nearby place. However, you said it was closed, and when I suggested a nearby restaurant, you declined, stating you had already eaten lunch. When I mentioned that there were options further away, you seemed dissatisfied.
Given the circumstances, I proposed to take you there. At that point, time was tight, and I was concerned about the potential impact on our afternoon customers, which led to the rough driving.
I sincerely apologize for the rough driving, as it was entirely due to our circumstances.
Moving forward, I would like to focus solely on guiding without any additional distractions. For future customers, please adhere to the scheduled meeting times during lunch hours, and if there are any changes to the meeting time, kindly inform us by the day before.
Thank you for your understanding. ご意見有難う御座います。普段は基本返信等はしないのですが、今回は当方の意見も記載して頂き他のお客様の判断材料とさせて頂きます。 最初に運転が荒くなりまして申し訳ありませんでした。下記は理由となります。
Balas Island has eroded and has become quite small. It was good that we were able to land for now, but I thought it might disappear soon. The waves were strong that day, and I used a lot of energy to avoid being swept away, but I was glad to see sea turtles and many fish along the ridge.バラス島は侵食されてだいぶ小さくなってました。とりあえず上陸できたのはよかったですがもうすぐなくなってしまうのではないかと思いました。当日はうねりが強く、流されないようにかなり体力をつかいましたが、ウミガメやリッジ沿いに沢山の魚がみれたのでよかったです。
Machine translated from Japanese
snorkeling tour
Posted Date: 2020/07/20
ミショコ
The staff at Umineko were very kind and friendly guides. The two snorkeling spots we discovered were like a tropical fish paradise, and we were very satisfied. Unfortunately, Baras Island is becoming smaller and is no longer a snorkeling spot, but the locations we were taken to were even more dynamic than we imagined. We saw multiple sharks and turtles.海猫さんのスタッフはとても親切でフレンドリーなガイドさんでした。発見されたシュノーケルスポット2つは熱帯魚の竜宮城で大満足です。バラス島は残念ながら更に小さくなりつつあり、シュノーケルスポットではなくなっていましたが、連れて行って頂いたスポットはイメージ以上にダイナミックでした。サメ、亀複数出没。
Machine translated from Japanese
It was rainy, but it was a good memory.
Posted Date: 2022/03/29
初西表
The weather was rainy ☔️, and the waves were a bit high, so unfortunately, we couldn't land on Baras Island... But there were plenty of beautiful fish in the water! Along the way, some family members got seasick, and there were various challenges. Despite that, our guide worked hard to make sure everyone had a good time! It became a wonderful memory. Thank you very much!天候が雨☔️で、波が少し高く、残念ながらバラス島には上陸できず…。でも海の中は綺麗な魚が沢山！途中、家族が酔ってしまい、いろいろありました。ガイドさんは、そんな中でも皆んなに楽しんでもらおうと、頑張ってくれていました！とてもいい思い出になりました。ありがとうございました
Machine translated from Japanese
Baras Island was in my heart.
Posted Date: 2024/08/28
ぺん太
We set sail on the cruiser. First, we practiced snorkeling by diving from the boat, and there we found colorful coral reefs and fish. It was breathtaking.
At the next spot, we dove from the boat again and were thrilled to see a turtle swimming up close. Then, we dove once more, enjoying free time to swim as we pleased.
As we were heading back, I wondered about Baras Island. On the way back, the mystery was revealed by the instructor. They explained on the boat that Baras Island has already sunk … We set sail on the cruiser. First, we practiced snorkeling by diving from the boat, and there we found colorful coral reefs and fish. It was breathtaking.
At the next spot, we dove from the boat again and were thrilled to see a turtle swimming up close. Then, we dove once more, enjoying free time to swim as we pleased.
As we were heading back, I wondered about Baras Island. On the way back, the mystery was revealed by the instructor. They explained on the boat that Baras Island has already sunk and does not appear even at low tide. Due to climate change and the recent typhoon, the sand that formed the island has washed down into the valley.
However, at the last point, we were able to land on what was once Baras Island, which was knee-deep, and take some photos. Yes, Baras Island may have sunk, but it still lives on in everyone's hearts.
I was able to learn about the dynamics of nature and had a wonderful time overall. クルーザーで、いざ出航。 まずはシュノーケリングの練習ということで、船からダイブ、するとそこには色とりどりの珊瑚礁とお魚たち。感動です。 次のポイントも船からダイブ、亀さんが泳いでいる様子を間近で見られて大興奮。 次なるポイントも船からダイブ、自由時間のように好きに泳いでよい時間。 では、帰ります、と。 あれ、バラス島は、、、 帰る途中、その謎がイントラから明らかに。 船上で説明してくれました、バラス島はもう沈んで干潮でも姿を現すことがない、と。 気候変動、直近の台風などの影響で、島を作っていた砂が、谷に流れ落… クルーザーで、いざ出航。 まずはシュノーケリングの練習ということで、船からダイブ、するとそこには色とりどりの珊瑚礁とお魚たち。感動です。 次のポイントも船からダイブ、亀さんが泳いでいる様子を間近で見られて大興奮。 次なるポイントも船からダイブ、自由時間のように好きに泳いでよい時間。 では、帰ります、と。 あれ、バラス島は、、、 帰る途中、その謎がイントラから明らかに。 船上で説明してくれました、バラス島はもう沈んで干潮でも姿を現すことがない、と。 気候変動、直近の台風などの影響で、島を作っていた砂が、谷に流れ落ちてしまっている、と。 でも、最後に、ここにバラス島がありました、というポイント、膝くらいの深さの元島に上陸？させてもらい、写真におさめることができました。 そうです、バラス島は沈んでしまいましたが、みなさんの心の中でしっかり生きているのです。 そんな自然のダイナミズムを知ることもできて、全体通じて楽しい時間を過ごすことができました。
Machine translated from Japanese
Snorkeling just before the typhoon.
Posted Date: 2025/01/09
ぴよこ
The typhoon was approaching, and it was uncertain whether the experience would be possible until the morning of the day. By adjusting the meeting time earlier, we were able to participate, and I was grateful for the flexible response.
I experienced this with my two elementary school children. One of them was trying on a snorkel for the first time, but thanks to the careful instruction and encouraging words, they were able to snorkel well.
It was disappointing that the experience time was shortened… The typhoon was approaching, and it was uncertain whether the experience would be possible until the morning of the day. By adjusting the meeting time earlier, we were able to participate, and I was grateful for the flexible response.
I experienced this with my two elementary school children. One of them was trying on a snorkel for the first time, but thanks to the careful instruction and encouraging words, they were able to snorkel well.
It was disappointing that the experience time was shortened for various reasons, including rough waves, and that we couldn't even see Burasu Island as it was submerged.
It seemed that the staff member was handling everything alone, which looked quite challenging. They were very good at talking, and it was a lot of fun. They taught us about the island, the sea, the typhoon, and various plants. It was impressive to see how interested the children were.
I want to have a typhoon revenge, so I plan to ask for this experience again when I go back. Thank you very much. 台風が近づいていて、体験が可能かどうか当日の朝まで分からない状況でした。 集合時間を早めにすることで、体験可能となり、臨機応変にご対応いただき有難かったです。 (台風のせいで、その後の体験がすべてキャンセルになったので、シュノーケリングだけでも出来て良かったです）
Balas Island is reportedly getting smaller each year due to typhoons and other factors, so it's better to go soon...
Even a half-day course offers plenty of enjoyment for snorkeling. For us seniors, it was just the right amount of physical activity.
The spots around Balas Island were full of fish, and the coral was beautiful!バラス島は、台風とかの影響で、年々小さくなっているとのこと 早く行ったほうが、、、
半日コースでもシュノーケリングは十分楽しめます シニアな私たちには、体力的にもちょうど良かったです
バラス島周辺のスポットは、お魚いっぱい、珊瑚も素敵でしたよ
Machine translated from Japanese
It was my first time snorkeling, but all three generations enjoyed it.
Posted Date: 2026/05/25
ゴロゴロぱんだ
We experienced snorkeling for the first time with three generations, from a 3-year-old to someone in their late 60s. The water was very clear, and the coral was beautiful. We were very satisfied!
However, it was extremely cold since we didn't wear wetsuits. I recommend that both adults and children wear wetsuits even during Golden Week.初めてのシュノーケリングで３歳から60歳後半までいる三世代で体験しました。海の透明度が高く、珊瑚が綺麗でした。大満足でした！
I am very grateful for the kindness shown to me. The snorkeling experience was amazing and moving. I would love to do it again. What was disappointing was the current state of Balas Island. While it's a natural occurrence and there's nothing we can do about it, it made us realize the importance of being aware of the environment, not just enjoying it as tourists. Thank you to the guide. とても親切にしていただき、感謝しております。シュノーケリングは感激、感動ものでした。またお願いしたいです。 残念だったのがバラス島の現状です。自然のことなので仕方がないとはいえ私たちも観光として楽しむだけでなく環境についても再認識させられました。 ガイドさんありがとうございました。
Machine translated from Japanese
Winter sea
Posted Date: 2017/12/13
Ymm
The sea in December is said to be windy, but fortunately, the weather was good on this day, and we were able to go snorkeling without any issues. They explained about the movement of Baras Island and provided various information about the fish. We were able to see two sea turtles and even a shark, which made us very satisfied. There were many different fish, and they were truly beautiful. It seems that the winter sea looks clearer.
Wearing a wetsuit allowed us to comfortably enter the water even … The sea in December is said to be windy, but fortunately, the weather was good on this day, and we were able to go snorkeling without any issues. They explained about the movement of Baras Island and provided various information about the fish. We were able to see two sea turtles and even a shark, which made us very satisfied. There were many different fish, and they were truly beautiful. It seems that the winter sea looks clearer.
Wearing a wetsuit allowed us to comfortably enter the water even during this season.
After returning, I used the shower booth, which was simple but provided hot water, making it very comforting. Shampoo, conditioner, and body soap were also available. 12月の海は風が強いとのことでしたがこの日は幸運にも天気が良く、無事シュノーケリングすることができました。バラス島が移動する説明などもしてくれるし、魚の説明も色々してくれました。海ガメも二匹見れたし、サメも見れて大満足でした。色々な魚がいて本当にきれいです。冬の海の方がきれいに見えるようです。
Thank you for sharing your experience!!! It was truly a lucky day! Typically, the weather is a bit calmer this time of year, but December has been quite rough this year. Especially in the last three days, we've had winds comparable to a typhoon... It was great to see turtles and sharks on one of the few sunny days! If you have the chance, please come visit again! We are looking forward to your return!!体験談有難う御座います！！！ホントに幸運の日でした！例年ですと、もう少し落ち着いた気候ですが、今年の12月はとても荒れております。特にここ三日は台風並みの暴風が吹き荒れております…。数少ない晴れた日にカメやサメなど見れた事も良かったです！また機会がありましたら是非遊びに来て下さい！お二人のお帰りをお待ちしております‼‼
Machine translated from Japanese
It was the best experience!
Posted Date: 2018/11/08
つばさ
A 4-year-old and my nearly 70-year-old grandfather also participated. We were able to experience snorkeling at two locations while being pulled along with a float, adjusted to our levels. Although I was a bit worried about my grandfather, who doesn't have much stamina, the guide was very considerate, and we all enjoyed ourselves. Swimming in the beautiful sea and being amazed by the underwater world felt like being in another world. I'm really glad I participated! Thank you very much.4歳児と70歳近い祖父も一緒に参加しました。 レベルに合わせて、浮き輪で引っ張ってもらいながら、二ヶ所の地点でシュノーケリング体験できました。 子どもはもちろん、体力のない祖父に不安もありましたが、ガイドさんの配慮もあり、楽しめました。 きれいな海の中を泳げ、別世界のような海の中に感動し、参加して良かったです！ ありがとうございました。
Machine translated from Japanese
I want to participate again.
Posted Date: 2020/03/25
Dracarys
You have a very high chance of encountering sea turtles because they don't shy away from people! (I was able to touch one!) The staff's knowledge is extensive, and it was truly enjoyable!連れて行ってもらえるポイントはウミガメが人から逃げないので極めて高確率でウミガメと出会えます！(自分はさわれました！) スタッフの知識も豊富で本当に楽しかったです！
Machine translated from Japanese
Coral revival
Posted Date: 2020/07/09
やっし
The coral that was damaged a few years ago has revived, and I was amazed by its beauty. At the sea turtle resting spot, I encountered two hawksbill turtles and one green turtle. The table corals are stacked in layers, resembling a bouquet of flowers. Since it coincided with low tide, I was able to land on Barasu Island, which has hardly appeared recently. It seems that the revival of the coral may be quicker because it is close to the open sea.数年前にやられたサンゴが復活していてあまりの美しさに驚きました。 ウミガメの休憩場所ではタイマイ２匹にアオウミガメ１匹に遭遇 テーブルサンゴは幾重にも重なりまるで花束の様 ちょうど干潮時刻と重なっていたので、最近はほぼ現れないバラス島にも上陸できました 外海に近いのでサンゴの復活も早いのかもと言うことです
Machine translated from Japanese
I was able to see a lot of turtles!
Posted Date: 2020/11/19
⭐︎⭐︎
There were clownfish, of course, and also turtles! We were able to see about 5 or 6 of them, and the coral was beautiful, so we were very satisfied! The guide was also very attentive and it was great.クマノミはもちろん、カメもいました！ 5.6匹は見ることができ、サンゴも綺麗で大満足でした！ ガイドも丁寧でとてもよかったです。
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The best snorkeling tour where I encountered sea turtles.
Posted Date: 2021/07/29
YUJI
I booked a half-day tour in late July 2021. The owner was very kind and provided thorough instruction for beginners, ensuring a safe snorkeling experience. This time, we snorkeled at two locations and had time for photos on Barasu Island. We encountered sea turtles, Napoleon fish, clownfish, and fusiliers. (I heard that you might not see sea turtles depending on the timing.) Due to the COVID-19 situation, it seems the owner is handling all reservations and guiding by themselves. They have been g… I booked a half-day tour in late July 2021. The owner was very kind and provided thorough instruction for beginners, ensuring a safe snorkeling experience. This time, we snorkeled at two locations and had time for photos on Barasu Island. We encountered sea turtles, Napoleon fish, clownfish, and fusiliers. (I heard that you might not see sea turtles depending on the timing.) Due to the COVID-19 situation, it seems the owner is handling all reservations and guiding by themselves. They have been guiding in Iriomote Island for 15 years and explained the ecology of the island in an easy-to-understand manner. Since the sun is very strong, it's better to bring a rash guard and sunscreen. The facilities included a restroom and a shower room (with shampoo, etc.), which were convenient to use. They also provided transportation back to the hotel. Thank you very much. 2021年7月下旬の午後の半日のツアーで申し込みをしました。オーナーの方は大変親切で、初心者にもしっかり指導をしながら安全にシュノーケリングが出来ます。今回は2箇所でのシュノーケリングとバラス島での撮影時間がありました。海亀、ナポレオンフィッシュ、クマノミ、グルクンに出会えました。(タイミングによって海亀とは出会えないこともあるそうです。）今はコロナ禍ということでオーナー1名で予約、ガイド全てをこなしているそうです。西表島でガイドを始めて15年になるそうで、西表島の生態について分かりやすく教えて頂きました… 2021年7月下旬の午後の半日のツアーで申し込みをしました。オーナーの方は大変親切で、初心者にもしっかり指導をしながら安全にシュノーケリングが出来ます。今回は2箇所でのシュノーケリングとバラス島での撮影時間がありました。海亀、ナポレオンフィッシュ、クマノミ、グルクンに出会えました。(タイミングによって海亀とは出会えないこともあるそうです。）今はコロナ禍ということでオーナー1名で予約、ガイド全てをこなしているそうです。西表島でガイドを始めて15年になるそうで、西表島の生態について分かりやすく教えて頂きました。日差しがとても強いので、ラッシュガード、日焼け止めは持参した方が良いです。施設はトイレとシャワー室（シャンプーなどあり）があり利用しやすかったです。帰りはホテルまで送迎して頂きました。ありがとうございました。
Machine translated from Japanese
Balas Island!
Posted Date: 2021/08/20
タイチ
Thank you very much for your assistance this time. My first visit to Balas Island was amazing! I felt safe and enjoyed the tour with the guide from Umineko. They carefully selected snorkeling spots, and we even got to see sea turtles, which made the kids very happy. I look forward to your help again when I come to Iriomote Island.今回お世話になり誠に有難うございました。 初めてのバラス島最高でした！ 海猫さんのガイド安心して楽しめました。 シュノーケリングポイントを厳選して頂き海亀にも会えて子供も大変喜んでいました。 又西表島に来た時には宜しくお願い致します。
Machine translated from Japanese
I was very satisfied!
Posted Date: 2021/11/02
ゆみこ
I was able to see a variety of creatures such as sea turtles, sharks, giant Napoleon fish, and clownfish. The tour company had a good grasp of the best points and times to see these animals, and at the second spot, we were the only boat around, which allowed us to see a lot.
I've also snorkeled in places like Okinawa and Tokashiki, but nothing compares to the stunning coral here; it was truly impressive. The guide was friendly and knowledgeable, providing us with a lot of explanations, which mad… I was able to see a variety of creatures such as sea turtles, sharks, giant Napoleon fish, and clownfish. The tour company had a good grasp of the best points and times to see these animals, and at the second spot, we were the only boat around, which allowed us to see a lot.
I've also snorkeled in places like Okinawa and Tokashiki, but nothing compares to the stunning coral here; it was truly impressive. The guide was friendly and knowledgeable, providing us with a lot of explanations, which made it enjoyable. I would love to participate again when I visit Iriomote Island! 海亀、サメ、巨大なナポレオンフィッシュ、クマノミなどなどかなり色々な生き物を見ることができました。見れるポイントや時間帯などしっかり把握されてるツアー会社さんで、2スポット目は私たちの船しか周りにいませんでしたが、かなり色々見ることができました。 また、沖縄本島や渡嘉敷などでもシュノーケルやったことがありますが、比べものにならないくらいとにかくサンゴが綺麗で感動しました。ガイドさんも気さくで、知識豊富で色々ご説明いただいたので、楽しかったです。また西表島に伺う際には、参加したいです！
Machine translated from Japanese
You can see unlimited sea turtles, sharks, and corals.
Posted Date: 2021/11/12
ぶんぶん
I was looking forward to snorkeling on Balas Island, and the tour exceeded my expectations. There was a vibrant array of corals, and there were plenty of fish. We encountered three sea turtles, and it was amazing to swim right alongside them. We also saw sea snakes, pufferfish, and sharks—there was so much to see.
The trekking was tailored to our skill levels, allowing us to fully enjoy the jungle of Iriomote. The guide's personality and the small group size made for a very enjoyable tour filled… I was looking forward to snorkeling on Balas Island, and the tour exceeded my expectations. There was a vibrant array of corals, and there were plenty of fish. We encountered three sea turtles, and it was amazing to swim right alongside them. We also saw sea snakes, pufferfish, and sharks—there was so much to see.
The trekking was tailored to our skill levels, allowing us to fully enjoy the jungle of Iriomote. The guide's personality and the small group size made for a very enjoyable tour filled with conversation, and I definitely want to participate again. バラス島でのシュノーケリングを楽しみにしていましたが、期待以上のツアーでした。 色とりどりのサンゴが広がり魚もたくさんいました。ウミガメは3匹も遭遇、しかも真横を一緒に泳げたのは感動です。他にもウミヘビとかフグとかサメとか盛りだくさんでした。 トレッキングもレベルに合わせて順路を選んでくれて西表のジャングルを堪能できました。ガイドさんの人柄と少人数のツアーだったこともあり、とてもおしゃべりしながら楽しいツアーで、またぜひまた参加したいと思います。
Machine translated from Japanese
The sea in Iriomote Island was very beautiful.
Posted Date: 2022/04/30
Tomo
I participated in snorkeling for the first time with my fourth-grade child. Fortunately, we were the only ones in our time slot, and the guide was very attentive to my child, which made the experience enjoyable for them. The tour was very satisfying as we got to see the beautiful blue, clear sea, diverse corals, and marine life along with explanations. My child, who loves animals, was particularly happy to see the green sea turtle, hawksbill turtle, and clownfish. The weather was great, and the … I participated in snorkeling for the first time with my fourth-grade child. Fortunately, we were the only ones in our time slot, and the guide was very attentive to my child, which made the experience enjoyable for them. The tour was very satisfying as we got to see the beautiful blue, clear sea, diverse corals, and marine life along with explanations. My child, who loves animals, was particularly happy to see the green sea turtle, hawksbill turtle, and clownfish. The weather was great, and the scenery around Barasu Island was wonderful. The guide was also very accommodating, explaining the specimens displayed in the shop to my child. Thank you very much! シュノーケリングは初めてな小学4年生の子供と参加しました。たまたま自分達親子しか参加がないスロットで、ガイドの方が子供に対して丁寧に接してくださったこともあり、子供も初めてのシュノーケリングをとても楽しむことができました。青く透明度の高い海と、多様なサンゴ、海の生き物を説明と共に見せて頂き大満足なツアーでした。生きもの好きな子供にはアオウミガメやタイマイ、カクレクマノミが見れたことが良かったようです。お天気も良く、バラス島の周囲の海景色も素晴らしかったです。お店に飾っている標本の説明を子供にして… シュノーケリングは初めてな小学4年生の子供と参加しました。たまたま自分達親子しか参加がないスロットで、ガイドの方が子供に対して丁寧に接してくださったこともあり、子供も初めてのシュノーケリングをとても楽しむことができました。青く透明度の高い海と、多様なサンゴ、海の生き物を説明と共に見せて頂き大満足なツアーでした。生きもの好きな子供にはアオウミガメやタイマイ、カクレクマノミが見れたことが良かったようです。お天気も良く、バラス島の周囲の海景色も素晴らしかったです。お店に飾っている標本の説明を子供にしてくださる等、ガイドの方の対応もとても良かったです。本当にありがとうございました。
