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Planning a trip to Sado Island? If you’re driving, boarding the ferry at Niigata Port is the first step of your adventure. The ferry from Niigata Port to Sado Island is both an exciting way to cross the sea and a convenient way to explore the island by car.
However, for first-timers, it can be a bit overwhelming. Where should you go? Is the process complicated? When is the right time to board? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered!
This article walks you through the steps of boarding the ferry at Niigata Port Sado Kisen Terminal with your car, ensuring a smooth start to your Sado Island adventure.
For more detailed information about Niigata Port Sado Kisen Terminal, you can check it out here.
Read more about Niigata Port Sado Kisen Terminal
If you’re boarding the ferry with your car, make sure to arrive at the Car Ferry Boarding Area at least 1 hour before departure.
The Car Ferry Boarding Area is located behind the Sado Kisen Terminal.
Source: Niigata Port Terminal Guide | Sado Kisen
A staff member will be present at the entrance of the boarding area. Show them the reservation screen on your smartphone, and they will direct you to your parking spot. If you don’t have a reservation, just let them know.
After parking in the designated spot, head to the Car Ticket Office within the same area to complete the boarding process.
If you have a reservation, show the reservation screen on your smartphone. The process takes about 1 minute. Additionally, you’ll receive a “Sado & Niigata Sightseeing Discount Coupon,” which you can use at affiliated facilities.
If you don’t have a reservation, check if there are available spots and proceed with the boarding process. Since you’ll need to fill out paperwork (such as your car’s registration number and length), it’s a good idea to have your vehicle inspection certificate on hand to make the process smoother.
You can also pick up free Sado Island sightseeing brochures here, so feel free to take some for your trip.
You can wait in your car until it’s time to board, but if you have extra time, you’re welcome to spend it at the terminal.
You can enter the terminal from the boarding area as well.
Approximately 40 to 45 minutes before departure, a staff member will visit your car to check your ticket. Once the ticket check is complete, boarding will begin (about 30 minutes before departure). Make sure you’re back in your car before then.
Once boarding starts, you’ll be guided onto the ferry in the order of arrival.
Once the staff directs you to park your car, you’re officially onboard. Get out of your car, take the stairs, and head into the passenger area.
In short, yes—boarding early is advantageous in that you’ll be among the first to disembark.
Cars are boarded in the order of arrival at the Car Ferry Boarding Area, so the earlier you board, the closer you’ll be to the ferry’s exit, allowing you to disembark sooner.
That said, the difference is only a matter of a few minutes, as disembarking doesn’t take long. If you want to disembark early on Sado Island, try to arrive at the boarding area about an hour before departure to secure an early spot in line.
Once you’ve boarded the ferry, your journey to Sado Island officially begins. Before we wrap up, here are some final tips and the benefits of exploring Sado by car.
Ensure safety on the vehicle deck:
How to spend time onboard:
Explore the island freely:
Discover local gourmet:
Experience the island’s seasonal beauty:
A ferry trip marks the beginning of your Sado Island adventure. Maximize the benefits of having a car and experience everything the island has to offer. Drive safely, and embrace the island’s nature, history, culture, and people. We hope your journey to Sado is unforgettable.
