Exiting Kanmon Strait, where the current will increase to 8 knots in a few hours

Our pilot disembarks after a smooth transit

Hinamatsuri, also called Doll's Day or Girls' Day, is a religious (Shinto) holiday in Japan

Plaque and gifts as part of the maiden port call ceremony in the Crows Nest

Hakata (Fukuoka)

Mar 4–5, 2024 in Japan ⋅ 🌧 50 °F

A calm day at sea provides relaxation and recovery after an intense schedule of ports in Tokyo and Kobe. The Seto Inland Sea is sheltered from ocean swells, so the only movement is when we are dodging local fisherman. We take on a pilot at 10:45 to help navigate the high currents and winding course through Kanmon Strait. This significant transportation corridor, which connects to the Sea of Japan, is a narrow separation between the main islands of Honshu and Kyushu. I enjoy a fabulous traditional Hakata meal with friends and observing of Doll’s Day (Hinamatsuri) decorations still out from March 3. Back on the ship, Jorge caught the plaque ceremony since this is also the maiden port call for Zuiderdam in Fukuoka.Read more