Whale Watching
Overview
About 25 years ago marine scientists realised that Sri Lanka might well be the best place in the world to see both the blue whale and the sperm whale. Before the mid-1990s’ there is no recording of sighting whales near the shores of Sri Lanka. There are two places on the island one could watch whales, one at Mirrissa in the South and the other in Trincomalee in the Northeast.
Scientists have not given any firm explanation for the sudden appearance of these species in the waters of Sri Lanka. It is muted that the 30-year civil war may have something to do with it as the fishing activities reduced considerably around the island the fish stock became plentiful and the area attracted large marine mammal species like Tuna, dolphins, and whales for feeding.
It is a once-in-a-lifetime thrilling trip to look out for sperm, killer, humpback, and pilot whales as well and you would come across dolphins and other marine life too. It is said that it is the largest Blue Whale colony in the world for there’s a good chance you’ll spot these enormous mammals during your excursion.
Generally, Mirissa Fishing Harbour is where the excursion starts at 7.00 AM and returns later in the morning or early afternoon depending on the time taken to spot the mammal. The harbour is only just under an hour’s drive from Galle and there are some excellent resorts and boutique hotels available in and around Mirissa and nearby towns and villages. Whale watching is only available during the season between October and March.
Whilst whale watching tours have long been popular off Trincomalee in the northeast, sightings there have always been hit and miss, please make an inquiry and we would be able to guide you.
