Japan
Kumamoto Ferry Schedules 2026
Ocean Arrow — the short crossing from Kumamoto to Shimabara
Est. 1991Kumamoto, Japan
Photo: Ocean Arrow on the Ariake Sea — Olegushka / Wikimedia Commons (CC0)- 0
- Routes
- 2
- Ports
- 1
- Vessels
- 1991
- Founded
Kumamoto Ferry is a ferry operator, founded in 1991 and based in Kumamoto, Japan. It operates 0 ferry routes serving 2 ports.
Timetables
Which routes does Kumamoto Ferry operate?
0 routes with live schedules.
No routes listed yet.
Network
Where does Kumamoto Ferry sail?
Kumamoto Ferry sails to 2 ports.
Experience
Onboard & services
- High-speed car ferry Ocean Arrow
- 360-degree interior tour online
- Terminal café at Kumamoto
- Shortest crossing between Kumamoto and the Shimabara–Unzen area
- Foot passengers restored from 1 August after a vehicles-only period
- Sailings on a temporary routing while recovery work continues
- Wheelchairs cannot currently be accommodated
- Extra sailings for Obon, 12–16 August 2026
About
About Kumamoto Ferry
Kumamoto Ferry runs the Ocean Arrow, a high-speed car ferry billed as the shortest crossing between Kumamoto and the Shimabara–Unzen side of Nagasaki prefecture. It is a working link across Ariake Bay rather than a scenic route — the alternative is a long drive around the coast.
Currently on a temporary route
This matters if you are travelling now. The service was vehicles-only for a period and foot passengers were restored from 1 August, but recovery work continues and sailings run on a temporary routing. The company states explicitly that wheelchairs cannot currently be accommodated. Check the operating status before planning around this crossing.
Obon
Extra sailings and separate booking arrangements apply for the Obon period, 12–16 August 2026 — one of the two weeks in the Japanese year when domestic transport fills completely.
Booking and the ship
Web booking is split between private cars and groups or buses. The site publishes a 360-degree interior tour of the Ocean Arrow and runs in English, traditional and simplified Chinese and Korean. There is a café at the Kumamoto terminal, and the ferry has been selected again as part of the Nanatsuboshi in Kyushu luxury train itinerary.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
When was Kumamoto Ferry founded?
Kumamoto Ferry was founded in 1991, and is headquartered in Kumamoto, Japan.
Where does Kumamoto Ferry sail?
Kumamoto Ferry operates 0 ferry routes and serves 2 ports in Japan, including Kumamoto, Shimabara.
How do I contact Kumamoto Ferry?
You can reach Kumamoto Ferry via their official booking site.
Can I take a car on Kumamoto Ferry ferries?
Yes — Kumamoto Ferry operates vehicle-carrying ferries on some routes. Book vehicle space in advance, especially in peak season, and check the specific crossing for size limits.
What facilities are available on Kumamoto Ferry ferries?
Kumamoto Ferry ferries typically offer High-speed car ferry Ocean Arrow, 360-degree interior tour online, Terminal café at Kumamoto. Facilities vary by vessel and route — check the specific sailing for details.
How early should I arrive for a Kumamoto Ferry ferry?
Arrive at the terminal at least 30–60 minutes before a Kumamoto Ferry departure as a foot passenger, and allow longer with a vehicle. Boarding and check-in times vary by port and route — confirm with Kumamoto Ferry.
How do I find Kumamoto Ferry ferry times?
Browse the live timetables for every Kumamoto Ferry route on this page. Schedules are updated as the operator publishes them — always confirm with Kumamoto Ferry before travelling, as sailings change seasonally.
Reviewed by Serhat Özçelik, Founder & Editor of Ferry Schedule Hub.
Contact & booking
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