Key points of this page
- In Japan, typhoons are most frequent from July to October, making it more likely that cruise ship port calls will be canceled or changed. The number of typhoons approaching Okinawa and Amami is highest in August, while on the mainland it is highest in September (Japan Meteorological Agency).
- In the event of a change in the cruise route due to weather, there is generally no refund of the cruise fare. However, if a shore excursion tour booked through the cruise company is canceled, a refund is usually provided.
- During typhoon season, it's important to have easily cancelable reservations, flexibility in your schedule before and after boarding, and to check the latest port arrival schedule.
Last verified: September 30, 2026
During typhoon season, ports of call may change or even be cancelled. Be sure to check the ship's announcements and weather forecasts frequently!
Typhoon-prone seasons and regions
This is the number of typhoons approaching Japan, based on the Japan Meteorological Agency's average values (average from 1991 to 2020). "Approaching" refers to a typhoon whose center comes within 300 km of a domestic weather station.
| 月 | Okinawa and Amami | mainland | Impact on cruises |
|---|---|---|---|
| May and June | 0.4/0.6 | 0.2/0.4 | few |
| July | 1.5 | 1.0 | It starts to increase |
| August | 2.3 | 1.6 | Most common in Okinawa |
| september | 2.0 | 1.9 | Many people on the mainland |
| October | 1.1 | 0.9 | Still be careful |
| Annual | 7.9 | 5.8 | ― |
Those most susceptible to the effects areNaha・Ishigaki・Miyako IslandThese include ports in Okinawa and ports on the Pacific coast of Kyushu and Shikoku. The ports of call on routes connecting Taiwan and South Korea with Japan may also change depending on the path of the typhoon.
What happens to cruise ships during typhoons?
- Cancellation of port calls (omission of port calls): The ship may skip scheduled ports and remain at sea all day.
- Port of call change: The ship may call at a different port to avoid the typhoon.
- Time changes: Arrival may be delayed, shortening the time available for disembarking, or departure may be earlier.
- Changes to embarkation and disembarkation dates: Departure may be delayed, and disembarkation may be earlier or later than planned.
Any changes will be announced via onboard announcements and daily program information. The final decision rests with the captain and the cruise line, with passenger safety being the top priority.
Are there any refunds or compensation options?
| Cruise fare | Generally, refunds are not given for changes to the itinerary due to weather. Cruise line regulations often state that the cruise line reserves the right to change the course or ports of call due to weather, and is not liable for any resulting damages (e.g., Princess Cruises). |
|---|---|
| Port of call sightseeing tour booked through the cruise company | Generally, refunds are issued if the event is canceled. However, if you paid in foreign currency, the refund amount may vary depending on the exchange rate. |
| Tours, chartered cars, and restaurants booked individually. | You will need to contact the booking provider yourself to cancel. Cancellation fees will depend on the terms and conditions of each booking provider. |
| Tours from Japanese travel agencies (itinary guarantee) | While there is a "travel itinerary guarantee" in case of changes to the itinerary, changes due to reasons beyond the travel agency's control, such as natural disasters, are not covered (Standard Travel Agency Terms and Conditions). |
| Travel insurance | The scope of coverage varies depending on the type of insurance. Before purchasing, be sure to check whether route changes or missed flights are covered. |
Preparations for taking a cruise during typhoon season
- Make reservations that are easy to cancel: For private tours at ports of call, chartered cars, and restaurants, choose reservations that do not incur cancellation fees.
- Allow ample time before and after boarding: Staying near the port the night before boarding, allowing plenty of time for your return flight or bullet train on the day of disembarking, and purchasing tickets that allow for changes are all good ways to ensure a smooth experience.
- Check the latest information: Check the Japan Meteorological Agency's typhoon information, the port's official website for arrival schedules, and announcements from the shipping company.
- To ensure you can enjoy the cruise even if the port of call changes: we may stop at an alternative port.Port of Call GuideIt's also a good idea to check the information about the surrounding ports.
- Plan how you'll spend your time on board: Since there may be more full days at sea, be sure to bring things like onboard shows, spa treatments, and books you'd like to read.
Visitors from overseas can use the free app supervised by the Japan Tourism Agency."Safety tips"You can receive typhoon and weather warnings in multiple languages. Points to note on port days:A practical guide for port daysPlease also see this.
FAQ
Q1If the ship doesn't make a port of call due to a typhoon, will I receive a refund?
In the event of changes or cancellations (omissions) of ports of call due to weather, there is generally no refund of the cruise fare. Cruise company regulations often stipulate that the cruise company has the right to change the route due to weather, etc., and is not liable for any resulting damages. However, shore excursion tours booked through the cruise company are generally refundable if they are cancelled.
Q2When is the typhoon season most frequent?
According to the Japan Meteorological Agency's average values (1991-2020), the highest number of typhoons approaching Okinawa and Amami is in August (2.3), and in mainland Japan it is in September (1.9). From July to October, it is wise to be prepared for changes in shipping routes.
Q3If the port of call is cancelled, what will happen that day?
The cruise may be a full day at sea, or the shipping company may call at a different port. Changes to the schedule will be announced on board and through onboard announcements.
Q4What happens to local tours and restaurants I booked individually?
Tours, chartered cars, and restaurants booked independently of the cruise company must be cancelled by the booking company themselves. During typhoon season, it's best to choose booking methods that do not charge cancellation fees.
Q5Are tours offered by Japanese travel agencies insured?
Japanese travel agencies offer a "tour itinerary guarantee" that provides compensation if the itinerary changes. However, this guarantee does not cover changes due to reasons beyond the travel agency's control, such as natural disasters, so it usually does not cover port cancellations due to typhoons.
Source/Reference Information
- Japan Meteorological Agency: "Average values for typhoons"
- Japan Meteorological Agency "Typhoon Information"
- Princess Cruises: "Cruise Itinerary, Embarkation/Disembarkation, and Ports of Call"
- Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism "Standard Terms and Conditions for Travel Agencies"
- JNTO "Safety Tips"
Last updated: September 30, 2026. Refund and compensation conditions vary depending on the cruise line, travel agency, and insurance contract. Please be sure to check your own contract details.