Sakaiminato

Sakaiminato invites guests into a port that feels almost islanded by water, where every sail reveals a different facet of the Sea of Japan and Lake Nakaumi, and where a cruise becomes a passport to two spectacular day trips across the lake: Matsue, the Town of Water, with its scenic Lake Shinji and Lake Nakaumi as a backdrop, and Matsue’s wooden castle—one of Japan’s few remaining—plus Horikawa River boat rides that trace the castle moat; across the lake, Yasugi anchors culture with the Adachi Museum of Art and its six gardens, continually ranked among Japan’s best for their seasonal moods and masterful stone-and plant landscapes. What sets this port apart is the seamless blend of maritime proximity with world‑class signature experiences: intimate shore excursions that pair historic sights with natural beauty, accessible from a compact, shallow‑draft fleet designed to ease embarkation and maximize dock time. Onboard services emphasize immersion and ease: locally informed guides, cuisine inspired by Izumo and coastal markets, enrichment talks on castles and gardens, and customizable shore programs that let guests savor the region at their own pace while leaving downtime for relaxation on deck as the sun sinks over the water.