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Step aboard the Cruise Ship Santa Maria for a unique way to experience Osaka Bay—take in the city skyline, feel the sea breeze, and soak up a touch of maritime history all at once.

A large, colorful ship styled like the Osaka Cruise Ship Santa Maria sails in a harbor near an industrial cityscape, with cranes and warehouses in the background and a clear blue sky overhead.

What Is the Cruise Ship Santa Maria?

The Cruise Ship Santa Maria is a themed sightseeing vessel docked at Tempozan Harbor Village. Modeled after Christopher Columbus’s famed ship, this replica is twice the size of the original, stretching nearly 50 meters in length and 12 meters in width. The moment we laid eyes on it, we were instantly captivated.

On board, you’ll find cozy seating, air-conditioned lounges, and roomy observation decks. The ship perfectly mixes old-world nautical charm with modern comfort, making it a relaxing and fun way to take in the sights of Osaka Bay.

Highlights of the Cruise

A detailed model of the colorful Osaka Cruise Ship Santa Maria, with a white sail and red cross, is displayed in a glass case. The ship sits on a blue and white wave base, with a yellow pillar and window reflections in the background.
  • Day Cruise – A 45-minute daytime ride offering panoramic harbor views
  • Twilight Cruise – A 60-minute evening option available on select days, ideal for watching the sunset
  • Educational Exhibits – Displays below deck explore the Age of Discovery and the history of shipbuilding
  • Scenic Views – The route passes the Tempozan Ohashi and Minato Ohashi Bridges, offers sweeping city skyline perspectives, and even provides a unique glimpse of Universal Studios Japan, including Hogwarts Castle

The ship’s open-air upper deck is a favorite spot for photography, while the indoor lounge provides a comfortable space to enjoy the scenery year-round.

How to Get to Cruise Ship Santa Maria (サンタマリア)

Train

Take the Osaka Metro Chuo Line to Osakako Station. From Exit 1, it’s about a 10-minute walk to Tempozan Harbor Village. Follow signs for the Kaiyukan Aquarium and Tempozan Ferris Wheel.

Taxi

From Osaka Station in the Umeda area, the ride takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes and costs around ¥4,400 to ¥5,500.

From Namba Station, the ride is similar in duration at about 15 to 20 minutes and costs approximately ¥4,000 to ¥5,000.

Boarding Point

The Santa Maria boards at Kaiyukan West Wharf, located next to the Kaiyukan Aquarium. Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure for check-in.

Is the Cruise Ship Santa Maria Worth Visiting?

Santa Maria offers a more relaxed experience compared to the nearby aquarium or Ferris wheel, but that’s part of its charm. We loved the peaceful pace and the fresh perspective it gives of Osaka Bay. It’s a fun, scenic stop for families, couples, or anyone wanting a short escape at Tempozan Harbor Village.

More to Explore Nearby

Once you’ve finished the cruise, there are plenty of attractions within a short walk of the pier:

  • Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan – One of the world’s largest aquariums, home to whale sharks and diverse Pacific marine life.
  • Tempozan Marketplace – A family-friendly shopping and dining complex with local street food and a retro food hall.
  • Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel – Soar 112 meters above Osaka Bay for panoramic day and night views.
  • Legoland Discovery Center Osaka – A fun indoor attraction for kids, filled with LEGO-themed rides, play zones, and exhibits.