On July 6, 2025, the 33rd Amami Seakayak Marathon was held in Setouchi Town, located in the southern part of Amami Oshima.
Seiya, the founder of Link Adventures, competed in the full-course surf ski category and placed 3rd—marking his second time on the podium, and the first in two years.
What is the Amami Seakayak Marathon?
The Amami Seakayak Marathon is held every year on the first Sunday of July in the beautiful coastal town of Setouchi, Amami Oshima. It is the longest-running and longest-distance seakayak race in Japan. It offers two main courses, a full course (36 km) and a half course (20 km).
Participants compete using various types of crafts, including: Seakayaks (solo or tandem), Surfski (full course only), Outrigger Canoe(full course only), Folding kayaks, SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboard) and Relay Teams.
But the fun doesn’t end with the race itself.
That evening, there’s an after-party festival featuring live performances by local artists and musicians with ties to the island, as well as food stalls run by local youth groups. The whole town comes alive with a festive, community spirit.
A Race Through Amami’s Coastal Beauty
The course takes paddlers across turquoise seas, past small islands, coral reefs, and the lush green coastline of Amami Oshima.
While it’s a serious race, the Amami Seakayak Marathon is also a celebration of nature, community, and the adventurous spirit of paddlers from all over Japan.
More Than a Race – A Milestone
For Seiya, who runs eco-tours year-round as part of Link Adventures, the marathon is more than just a competition. It’s a personal milestone and a reminder of the island’s natural beauty.
Despite limited training this year, his consistent pacing and strategy paid off, leading to a proud 3rd-place finish under the blazing Amami sun.
Special Thanks and Reflections
Since 2020, the Amami Seakayak Marathon had been canceled several times due to COVID-19 and typhoons. This year, it was finally held as usual again, and I was truly happy to see so many paddlers gather from all over Japan. It was my third time participating, and I feel grateful to have been part of this historic race, now in its 33rd year. Huge thanks to everyone who made this event possible, the organizers, the amazing paddling community from across the country, and of course, my family for their constant support.
