English Empire Divers Okinawa

Richard was helpful throughout the dive. The boat used also had hot showers and hot tea which was a godsend when diving in December! Before each dive site he also told us about what to look out for. All the equipment was set up for us by him as well which sped up the process!

Dec 2025

Richard is an awesome guide if you are looking for a relaxed diving experience in Okinawa. I would especially recommend him if you are into photography as he will go at a slower pace and will point out cool macro subjects. Pick up was nice and easy. I would definitely book with him again!

Dec 2025

There are plenty of excellent dive operators around the world, and then there is Richard— who walks on water and is a wonderful human being. Communication before my arrival was quick and efficient via WhatsApp. Richard picked me up at my accommodation (Yuyuki Condos in Yomitan, close to his dive shop). The drive times to the dive sites in the north are about an hour each way. So we had lots of time to chat—you feel that you are catching up with an old friend. The weather upended some of our plans but Richard came up with an excellent alternative to do a shore dive at Gorilla Chop. Incredibly, at this shallow dive under a pier thousands of sardines take shelter from dive bombing birds and other marine prey. It’s called the mijun. I’ve done the sardine run in South Africa and this was better and far less arduous. It may be Okinawa’s best kept secret. We also dove the USS Emmons. Despite challenging conditions and poor viz, Richard managed to get some great shots. He is a gifted photographer and generous in sharing his photos with his guests. The last day’s diving was at Manzu—Richard’s favorite, and judging how full the boat was, local divers love it too. Richard knew how cold I get and knew the wind would be blowing, so he prepared an entire cooler box full of 2 liter boiling hot water bottles. Not only that, but he infused them with lemongrass from his garden. Aah! See what I mean about walking on water? Who else would provide such personal and kind service? Richard loves Japan and his enthusiasm for diving and his adopted country is infectious. He speaks Japanese and is liked by the boat captain and the other dive operators. It was a privilege diving and spending time with Richard. You won’t regret doing so. P.S. Pro Tip: Richard suggested I visit the Churaumi aquarium, which is near many of the dive sites. He is happy to drop you off there and tell you how to catch the bus back. It’s excellent—see photo.

Nov 2025