The Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, often referred to as the 'pirate ship,' is a popular tourist boat service operating on Lake Ashi in Hakone. It connects three main ports—Hakone-machi, Motohakone, and Togendai—and serves as both a scenic attraction and a convenient mode of transportation within the Hakone area. This cruise is a vital part of the Hakone Free Pass itinerary, allowing visitors to experience the region's stunning natural beauty, including panoramic views of Mount Fuji on clear days, and access historical sites like the Hakone Checkpoint.
Visitors frequently highlight the cruise's comfortable and smooth ride, noting that it's generally free from seasickness. Many appreciate the unique design of the ships and the opportunity to take numerous photos from various vantage points on deck. The ability to enjoy both the indoor cabins and the outdoor deck for views is a recurring positive comment. The convenience of the ferry ticket, especially when integrated with local itineraries, is also often praised, making it a seamless part of a day trip to Hakone. The experience is consistently described as picturesque, exciting, and well worth the visit, particularly when the weather is favorable.
For the best experience, visitors recommend checking the weather forecast beforehand, as clear skies significantly increase the chances of seeing Mount Fuji. The cruise typically takes about 70 minutes for a round trip, but many opt for a one-way journey to connect with other attractions. It's advisable to allocate at least 1-2 hours for the cruise itself, plus additional time for exploring the ports. While tickets are convenient, some reviewers mention that first-class upgrades are only available for purchase on-site, which might require queuing again. Consider purchasing the Hakone Free Pass, as it covers the cruise and other transportation in the area, offering good value.
The cruise connects various points of interest. From Togendai, visitors can take the Hakone Ropeway to Owakudani. From Hakone-machi Port or Motohakone Port, it's a short walk to the Hakone Checkpoint. To reach the Hakone Checkpoint, take the H Line bus towards Hakonemachi-ko from Hakone-Yumoto and alight at Hakone Sekisho-mae. If arriving via the ropeway at Togendai, you can take the 'pirate ship' cruise and disembark at Hakonemachi port. The cruise itself is a scenic way to travel between these key locations.
A common complaint is the potential for obscured views of Mount Fuji on cloudy or rainy days. While the cruise is still enjoyable for its lake scenery, the absence of Fuji can be disappointing for some. To mitigate this, plan your visit for a day with a clear forecast. Another point raised is the lack of advance booking for first-class tickets through some online platforms; if a premium experience is desired, be prepared to purchase the upgrade directly at the port.
