Information on Lines in Japan
Some of the advantages of cruises
Enjoy the sparkling blue sea on a leisurely cruise designed to meet passenger needs.
Unlike a long-distance cruise that provides hotel-like services, the line connecting Aomori and Hakodate offers a casual cruising experience to meet the needs of passengers who simply want to have a pleasant trip with friends, enjoy sailing in a relaxed atmosphere or rest quietly during the 3-hr. 40-min ride.
Four ferries (Virgo, Venus, Blue Dolphin, Esan 2000) are currently in service on the line, making a total of eight round trips each day.
Hakodate Ferry Terminal’s modern light-filled building and Aomori Ferry Terminal’s impressive terrace with its panoramic views add even more color to the cruising experience.
Night view of Aomori Port
Aomori Ferry Terminal:
The terrace on the second floor commands magnificent views.
Hakodate Ferry Terminal:
The modern Hakodate Terminal provides a warm welcome.
Helpful information to make cruising even more enjoyable
Dolphins in the Tsugaru Straits are a sign of spring. The changing seasonal views from on board are impressive.
Dolphins playfully approaching and swimming alongside ships can be seen in spring.
Passengers are enchanted by the sight of these delightful mammals as they enjoy slicing through the water.
The vista from on board - including port views and the magnificent ocean - changes with the seasons, offering a different flavor of scenery each time.
The cruise destinations of Hakodate and Aomori have a variety of tourist attractions including Mt. Hakodate and the Oirase area, and are also known for delicious seafood thanks to their locations surrounded by water.
Visitors are sure to enjoy a wonderful cruise experience that meets individual needs.
The first experience of cruising is unforgettable!
Mt. Hakodate as seen from a ship
Dolphins swimming with the ship
(C)Hokkaido University Cetacean Research Group2009
Ferries operated on this line
Blue Dolphin
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Total length: 136.6 m (448.2 ft)
International gross tonnage:14,000t
Passenger capacity: 586 people
Speed: 20 knot
Vehicle capacity: 65 trucks or 200 passenger vehicles
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Origin of name:
The name Blue Dolphin comes from the corporate color of Tsugaru Kaikyo Ferry combined with the dolphin in the company’s logo, reflecting the chance to see dolphins on the route via the Tsugaru Straits from April to May.
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The ferry has a dog room and a dog deck. It is Japan's first ferry to have such a deck, allowing dog owners to enjoy the refreshing sea breeze on voyages with their pets.
The vessel also offers a variety of appealing cabin options and new facilities not usually found on conventional ferries, including a baby room and a powder room, in consideration of passenger needs.
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Virgo
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Total length: 134.6 m (441.6 ft.)
International gross tonnage:13,400t
Passenger capacity: 580 people
Speed: 20 knot
Vehicle capacity: 65 trucks or 200 passenger vehicles
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Origin of name: Virgo - the virgin goddess born of the god Zeus and the goddess Themis
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This ship is not as large as the Venus, but has well-equipped cabins and ample facilities.
The second-class rooms are spacious, and are perfectly suited to those looking for a relaxing trip. Schools of dolphins can be seen from the deck from May to July.
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Venus
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Total length: 136.6 m (448.2 ft)
International gross tonnage:14,400t
Passenger capacity: 590 people
Speed: 20 knot
Vehicle capacity: 65 trucks or 200 passenger vehicles
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Origin of name: The daughter of Zeus and Dione, Venus was an Olympian and the goddess of beauty (Greek name: Aphrodite). The planet of the same name is commonly known as the Morning Star or the Evening Star.
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Formerly used as a long-distance ferry, this is the largest of the line’s four ships, and has outstanding facilities. Passengers can choose from among deluxe cabins (for two people), first-class cabins (for four people) and second-class rooms according to the purpose of their trip.
Deluxe cabins are recommended for couples looking for a luxury experience, first-class cabins are ideal for those who want to enjoy a lively trip with friends or loved ones, and second-class rooms are great for those wishing to travel in groups or individually at lower fares.
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Esan 2000
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Total length: 110.3 m (361.9 ft)
International gross tonnage:4,700t
Passenger capacity: 78 people
Speed: 17.5 knot
Vehicle capacity: 30 trucks or 70 passenger vehicles
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Origin of name: The ship started service in 2000 following on from the operation of the Esan. As its name (meaning “blessed mountain”) suggests, the mountain is rich in blessings from nature.
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This is the newest member of the ferry fleet. It has second-class rooms only and basic facilities, but offers a clean, comfortable atmosphere. |
For reservations and inquiries about the above line and ferries
