When one thinks of a cruise, the image of leisurely travelling the world comes to mind. However, there are actually a variety of plans, from short 2-night, 3-day trips connecting Japanese ports to round-the-world voyages. Among such cruise ships, ‘Asuka II’ by NYK Cruises Co., Ltd. has gained immense popularity in Japan.
Asuka II summer Kanazawa-Hakodate cruise
Looking at the ‘Asuka II’ packages that are offered, there are short tours of 2 nights, 3 days or 3 nights, 4 days connecting Japanese ports, making them perfect for a quick weekend getaway. These shorter packages are apparently very popular with first-time cruisers.
Among the many cruise plans, we were fortunate enough to embark on the ‘Summer Kanazawa (金沢) – Hakodate (函館) Cruise’ held over a weekend in late August, so we would like to present a report on this 2-night, 3-day cruise journey.
2-Night, 3-Day basic schedule
Day 1
15：00 Boarding commences at Kanazawa Port
16：15 Safety drill
17：00 Departure / Sailaway Party
Day 2
Leisure time all day
Day 3
10：00 Disembarkation commences at Hakodate Port
*While boarding and disembarking times are fixed, everything else is flexible. The ‘ASUKA DAILY,’ a detailed guide to meal times, events, and other information, is delivered to each cabin daily, allowing guests to plan their schedule accordingly.
‘Asuka II’ deck guide
The ship is comprised of 8 decks, from Deck 5 to Deck 12. Below that, Deck 4 has a paid medical centre.
Furthermore, there are lifts available for convenience if ascending or descending stairs is challenging.
Stepping onto Deck 5 of ‘Asuka II’ via the gangway from Kanazawa Port, guests are welcomed by a luxurious atmosphere befitting a cruise ship.
The smiles of the international staff are also a delight, and the lavish yet friendly hospitality only heightens one’s expectations. We will now explain the onboard facilities, deck by deck.
Deck 5 ‘Main Deck’
Deck 5 is where the reception is located. It features the Asuka Lounge and Piano Bar, as well as the main dining room, “Four Seasons Dining Room,” creating a space akin to a hotel lobby lounge.
Deck 6 ‘Plaza Deck’
At the bow is the ‘Galaxy Lounge,’ where international production shows are held every evening, and at the stern is ‘Club 2100’ for ballroom dancing. In addition to the ‘Hollywood Theatre,’ which screens films, and the ‘Monte Carlo’ casino corner, there are four shops. Furthermore, there are dining facilities such as ‘The Bistro’ and ‘Mariner’s Club’ bar, as well as the Cruise Sales Office. To fully enjoy everything on Deck 6, planning out your day ahead is advisable.
Decks 7-10
These four decks are occupied by cabins. Floors are divided by class, from the most luxurious Royal Suite downwards.
Even the most common cabins have sea-facing windows, allowing guests to enjoy breathtaking ocean views, which is a major draw.
A distinctive feature is that all cabins are equipped with a bathtub, allowing guests to fully indulge in a luxurious cruise experience.
Even the more casual cabins have such a stylish atmosphere. The elegant long corridors that stretch out infront of you is also one of the photo spots.
Deck 11 ‘Lido Deck’
At the bow are the ‘Palm Court’ and ‘Vista Lounge,’ where drinks and high tea can be enjoyed.
Flanking the Seahorse Pool in the centre, the stern features the “Lido Café,” a buffet-style restaurant, the Japanese restaurant ‘Umihiko (海彦),’ and the premium dining venue ‘The Pale.’
All facilities boast large windows, and spending time gazing at the sea and sky during the day is one of the ultimate delights of a cruise.
Left: Vista Lounge. Right: Seahorse Pool.
The two images on the left are of casual dining spaces such as the Lido Café and Lido Garden. The image on the right is of Umihiko (海彦), which requires reservations. The sushi, made with the freshest produce, is very popular.
Deck 12 ‘Sky Deck’
Deck 12, which is the rooftop, features a large open-air bath installed in 2020, along with the Grand Spa and Fitness Centre, offering an exhilarating experience unique to being at sea on a cruise.
Furthermore, the ‘Asuka AVEDA Salon & Spa’ promises a truly blissful time of relaxation.
‘Asuka II’ dress code
Dressing up for dinner is one of the joys of a cruise, and the ‘ASUKA DAILY’ clearly states the daily dress code.
For the ‘Summer Kanazawa-Hakodate Cruise,’ the dress code was casual. The passengers enjoying themselves, dressed in resort-style fashion, adding to the relaxed vibe.
‘Asuka II’ gourmet guide
The extensive dining options are a major draw for repeat guests on ‘Asuka II.’
As meals are generally included in the fare, guests can enjoy their favourite dishes to their heart’s content, whenever they wish.
Enjoy Choosing from the Buffet-Style ‘Lido Café’
Located on Deck 11, this spacious buffet-style restaurant is divided into various themed areas.
This is a space where meals can be enjoyed throughout the day, from breakfast and lunch to afternoon snacks and late-night supper.
For breakfast, omelettes and French toast are recommended, while for lunch, freshly grilled patties for burgers made right in front of you and original gelato are popular choices.
From Full-Course Dinners to Japanese Breakfasts at the ‘Four Seasons Dining Room’
Located on Deck 5, this elegant and spacious main dining room offers a different menu each day, including Japanese-style set menus for breakfast and lunch, and authentic French dinners or Japanese cuisine in the evening.
Their selection of wines and sake is also highly regarded, allowing guests to fully savour the seasonal delights.
Relax with Champagne and Caviar High Tea at ‘Vista Lounge’
Situated at the bow on Deck 11, with luxurious decor and furnishings, the ‘Vista Lounge’ is a comfortable space to enjoy tea.
Evening high tea is served in this inviting setting.
There are three menu options, including a half bottle of champagne and caviar, which can be reserved onboard (at an additional charge). This promises to be an unparalleled moment of elegance.
After dinner, cocktails at ‘Mariner’s Club’
This sophisticated bar, with its rich British-style interior and authentic bar counter, offers a wide selection of whiskies and brandies, as well as numerous ‘Asuka II’ original cocktails.
It’s the perfect place to reflect on the day or to converse with the bartender about the intricacies of drinks, bringing a superb day to a close.
‘Asuka II’ souvenir guide
Onboard the cruise ship, a selection of high-quality fashion and craft items are available, allowing for enjoyable shopping.
At ‘Le Bleu,’ a casual souvenir shop on Deck 6, we discovered some lovely original products that make for great souvenirs or mementos of the cruise!
‘Asuka II’ scenic viewpoints
And ‘Asuka II’ arrives at Hakodate port
During the cruise, we experienced no troubles with the weather or any significant swaying, and Wi-Fi was available.
There was no anxiety or stress whatsoever about spending 2 nights and 3 days at sea.
Enjoying meals and entertainment, ‘Asuka II’ completed its comfortable voyage from start to finish, arriving at Hakodate Port right on schedule.
Luggage could be sent in advance by courier, and courier services were also available upon arrival, allowing us to arrive at Hakodate Port luggage free, do some light sightseeing, and then return home.
It was surprising how comfortable they made the travel for us.
Throughout the 2 nights and 3 days, the information about the growing popularity of cruises made perfect sense.
Upon returning home, I found myself checking various cruise plans.
Furthermore, there’s big news!
A new ship, ‘Asuka III,’ is scheduled to launch from 2025.
With the enrichment of cruise ship travel, my excitement knows no bounds!
‘Asuka II’ contact information
NYK Cruises Co., Ltd. https://www.asukacruise.co.jp/
Asuka II Official Booking Site for 2025 World Cruise https://www.asukacruise.co.jp/
This article is translated from https://intojapanwaraku.com/travel/256219/
