From mid April to mid November, sightseeing boat cruises are operated along the rugged western coast of the Shiretoko Peninsula. Tours depart from Utoro and travel either halfway or the full way up to Cape Shiretoko (Shiretoko Misaki) at the tip of the peninsula. It is the easiest way to view the peninsula's dramatic coastline with its tall cliffs and waterfalls, otherwise inaccessible to the regular tourist.
Another highlight of the cruises is the variety of wildlife that can be seen from the boats, especially brown bears which are often spotted on the rocky beaches with their cubs. Deer and foxes may also be seen along the shore, while sea animals such as dolphins, whales, sea lions and different types of sea birds might be seen from the boats.