Busan to Fukuoka Ferry

You can travel from Busan to Fukuoka by ferry using two main carriers: Queen Beetle and Camellia Line. Both operators run evening departures at 20:00, arriving at 07:30 the next morning, with journey times around 9 hours. Tickets range from $31 to $128 depending on your choice of carrier and class. Book at least one month ahead for the best rates, especially during peak seasons. Our detailed guide covers everything you'll need for smooth sailing.

Ferry Operators and Services

The ferry service between Busan and Fukuoka is operated by several companies, with Queen Beetle and Camellia Line being the primary carriers.

You'll find Queen Beetle running six weekly trips from Busan Port International Terminal to Hakata Port, while Camellia Line offers daily car ferry services on the same route.

For budget-conscious travelers, you can also book through JR Beetle or Kobee, with Kobee typically offering lower fares but longer journey times. The journey takes about 9 hours by ferry.

On Queen Beetle, you'll get access to Wi-Fi, USB power outlets, and generous luggage space.

Camellia Line gives you three class options: Premium, First Class, and Second Class.

You can bring luggage up to 200cm in total dimensions, with a 20kg weight limit per bag, ensuring you've got enough space for your belongings.

Journey Duration and Timing

Depending on your chosen sailing time, you'll spend approximately 11 hours and 30 minutes crossing from Busan to Fukuoka.

The primary sailing departs at 20:00 and arrives at 07:30 the next morning, operating Monday through Saturday with six weekly sailings.

You'll need to arrive at least one hour before departure for check-in.

While the schedule remains generally fixed throughout the week, weather conditions can impact your journey time across the 300-kilometer route.

The night ferry service allows you to maximize your travel time by sleeping during the crossing.

Remember there's only one daily sailing, so you won't find early morning or late evening alternatives to the 20:00 departure.

The maritime route offers scenic views, though it's not the most direct path between the two cities.

The journey may be extended during high season when additional sailings are added to accommodate increased passenger traffic.

Ticket Prices and Booking Options

While several ticket options exist for the Busan-Fukuoka ferry, prices vary considerably based on your chosen service and class. The Queen Beetle ferry costs $31-33, while Camellia Line offers three tiers: Second Class ($58), First Class ($77), and Premium ($128).

Don't forget to budget an extra 300 JPY per person for the mandatory fuel tax, payable in cash.

You'll find multiple booking channels to secure your tickets. Book through the ferry companies' official websites, or use third-party platforms like Klook and AFerry.co.uk for easier foreign card payments and potential discounts. Business class passengers get access to premium amenities including free drinks and snacks.

Book at least one month ahead, especially during peak seasons. For check-in, you'll need your booking confirmation, passport, and proof of onward travel.

Remember to arrive 60 minutes before departure.

Daily and Weekly Schedule Details

Operating six days a week, Camellia Line's ferry service connects Busan to Fukuoka through a consistent daily schedule.

You'll depart Busan at 20:00 and arrive in Hakata (Fukuoka) at 07:30 the next morning, with sailings available Monday through Saturday. The journey takes approximately 11 hours and 30 minutes. JR Kyushu Beetle Jet Ferry offers 16 weekly sailings for additional travel options.

Plan to arrive early, as you'll need to check in at least 120 minutes before departure. The ferry operates year-round, though sailing frequencies and times may vary by season.

You'll find the schedule reliable and predictable, with up to six sailings weekly. While on board, you can access various facilities including restaurants, stores, and entertainment options.

Remember that pets aren't allowed, and you'll need to pay a separate waiting area fee in Fukuoka, payable in Japanese yen.

       

Route Map and Distance Overview

As you plan your journey across the Korea Strait, you'll travel a distance of 213 kilometers (115 nautical miles) between Busan International Ferry Terminal and Hakata Port International Terminal.

The route follows a straight path from South Korea's southeastern coast to Japan's southwestern shore, offering you scenic ocean views throughout your crossing.

You can access both terminals easily from major transportation hubs. In Busan, you'll find the ferry terminal at 206 Chungjang-daero, Dong-gu (GPS: 35.117551, 129.048482).

At your destination, Hakata's terminal is located at 13 Chikkōhonmachi, Hakata Ward (GPS: 33.605065, 130.399197).

Multiple operators serve this route, including Camellia Line and JR Kyushu Beetle Jet Ferry, giving you flexibility in choosing your preferred service. The journey takes 11 hours 30 minutes for the standard crossing from Busan to Hakata.

Weather Considerations and Sailing Conditions

Weather plays a major role in your ferry journey across the Korea Strait.

You'll want to monitor weather forecasts carefully, as typhoons and high waves can cause cancellations, particularly when wave heights exceed 3 meters.

Check multiple weather models and local alerts before departure to avoid last-minute disruptions.

If you're prone to seasickness, take advantage of the free medication available at check-in and choose seating near the back of the ferry.

The Camellia Line Ferry handles rough seas better than the JR Queen Beetle, making it a more reliable choice during uncertain weather conditions.

You can verify current wave heights at the check-in area's weather display, and ferry operators will notify you promptly about any weather-related schedule changes through their office announcements.

The ferry service, which spans approximately 200 kilometers between Japan and Korea, operates regularly when conditions permit.

Essential Travel Documents and Requirements

Three essential documents form the foundation of your Busan-Fukuoka ferry journey: a valid passport, ferry reservation number, and visa documentation where applicable.

Check your nationality's requirements for the South Korea K-ETA visa, as some countries have exemptions until late 2024.

You'll need to fill out arrival and departure cards during check-in. Keep your email confirmation handy, as you may need to show proof of booking.

For the return journey from Busan to Fukuoka, prepare proof of departure from Japan. Remember, there's no checked baggage service – you'll carry all your luggage through security checks and onto the ferry yourself.

Arrive at least 1-2 hours before departure to guarantee smooth processing through passport control, security, and customs procedures.

Don't risk arriving less than 30 minutes before sailing.

The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 55 minutes across the Korea Strait to reach your destination.

Onboard Amenities and Facilities

From luxury private cabins to casual communal spaces, the Busan-Fukuoka ferry offers diverse accommodation options to suit every traveler's needs.

You'll find private cabins equipped with en suite bathrooms, TVs, and refrigerators, while First Class rooms come in both Japanese and Western styles.

You can enjoy meals at various dining venues serving Japanese, Korean, and Western cuisine, or grab snacks from vending machines and small stalls.

For entertainment, you'll have access to karaoke rooms, game areas, and duty-free shopping with discounted prices on drinks and cosmetics.

To unwind, head to the Observatory Spa Baths or take a stroll on the Promenade Deck for scenic ocean views.

Additional amenities include bike parking, clean bathrooms, and multipurpose halls for business gatherings or meetings.

The 3 hour and 40 minute journey provides ample time to explore all these amenities while crossing between Japan and Korea.

Peak Season Travel Guidelines

While the ferry's amenities provide comfort during your journey, planning ahead becomes particularly important during peak travel seasons.

Book your tickets at least one month in advance to secure your spot and avoid higher last-minute prices. You'll need to arrive at the check-in counter no later than one hour before departure, with your passport, reservation number, and K-ETA visa ready.

During peak seasons, you'll face larger crowds and potentially sold-out ferries. Use platforms like Klook or Direct Ferries to find available tickets if the operator's website shows none. The most reliable option is booking through JR Beetle service, which offers a smooth English booking process.

You can't pre-select seats, so arrive early for check-in to get your preferred spot. Remember that weekends and holidays see increased passenger volume, making advance planning essential for a smooth journey between Busan and Fukuoka.

Terminal Locations and Access Points

Both ferry terminals in Busan and Fukuoka offer multiple access points to suit different travel preferences.

In Busan, you'll find the terminal just 400 meters from Busan KTX Station – simply exit through gate 9 and turn left. You can opt for the hourly shuttle bus, take exit 4 at Choryang Station, or grab a taxi for maximum convenience.

For Fukuoka Ferry Terminal, you've got two main options from Hakata Station. Take the 88 bus for a direct route to the terminal, or ride the metro to Gofukumachi Station followed by a 25-minute walk. Make sure to arrive at least one hour before departure to complete all check-in procedures.

If you're carrying heavy luggage, the bus is your best choice. The check-in counter is right at the terminal entrance, making the process straightforward once you arrive.