Whale & Dolphin Watching in Mirissa & Trincomalee

Tour Overview

Duration: days / nights

Price: $

Witnessing some of the world’s most magnificent marine mammals in their natural habitat is an awe-inspiring experience that leaves an indelible mark on one's memory, creating cherished moments that last a lifetime. And, encountering the largest animal to ever grace our planet, the blue whale, is a tale worth sharing with awe and wonder.

Imagine setting sail into the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean at dawn, surrounded by shimmering blue waters stretching as far as the eye can see.

Suddenly, the serene surface is interrupted by the breathtaking sight of a mighty blue whale breaking through the waves, gracefully cresting before diving back into the depths, leaving a gentle ripple in its wake.

It's an exhilarating experience that leaves one captivated by the sheer majesty of nature.

Does this sound like a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to you? Then, Sri Lanka deserves a top spot on your bucket list or as your next travel destination.

The waters surrounding this teardrop-shaped island are renowned as prime whale-watching destinations, offering sightings of not only blue whales but also other gentle giants such as humpback whales, sperm whales, killer whales, and playful dolphin pods. 

Sri Lanka's ocean serves as a bountiful feeding ground for these magnificent creatures year-round, with an abundance of krill attracting them to these coastal waters.

As the monsoon season subsides, the calm seas beckon these majestic beings to play and feed, creating ideal conditions for unforgettable whale- watching experiences.

Enhance your Sri Lankan adventure by exploring tailored tour itineraries and renting a car with a knowledgeable driver, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable journey through this island paradise.

Whether you're seeking a private excursion or a group tour, Lanka Getaways offers a plethora of options to suit your preferences.

Rent a car with driver in Sri Lanka or opt for car and driver hire services for added convenience and flexibility.

With driver hire services available, including personal driver hire, chauffeur service, and budget tour operators, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic routes while your experienced driver navigates the roads.

From private drivers to the best chauffeur service in Sri Lanka, there's an option to suit every traveler's needs.

Explore the island's attractions with ease by renting a van with driver or even a bus with driver for larger groups.

With a range of Sri Lanka tour packages and tour itineraries available, you can customize your experience to include must-visit destinations and hidden gems, ensuring an unforgettable adventure in this captivating country.

Tour Itinerary

Mirissa

One standout location for whale watching is Mirissa, situated on the southern coast. The prime period to embark on this adventure is from December to April when the sea is at its calmest.

Setting off from the picturesque Mirissa harbor around sunrise, boats typically accommodate small groups of about 8 or larger vessels carrying up to 100 passengers.

During the 3 to 5-hour excursion along the stunning blue waters of Sri Lanka's southern coast, sightings of various whale species are common, including the awe- inspiring blue whale gracefully gliding through the waves, alongside playful pods of dolphins frolicking near your boat.

Mirissa is undeniably one of the top spots for whale watching in Sri Lanka, promising an unforgettable and awe-inspiring experience for all who embark on this maritime adventure.

 

Trincomalee

During the monsoon season from May to October, when the southern coast experiences rough waves and high tides, the focus of whale watching shifts to the northeast coast of Sri Lanka, where the waters are notably calmer.

If you're visiting the island during this period, your best chance of spotting whales is in Trincomalee.

Unlike Mirissa, where sightings are dominated by blue whales, Trincomalee offers a higher likelihood of encountering sperm whales, with occasional appearances by blue whales.

Trincomalee is quickly gaining recognition as a premier whale-watching destination, particularly for blue whales, along with smaller numbers of sperm whales, spotted approximately six to eight nautical miles east of the city (a 30-minute boat ride).

Spinner dolphins are also a common sight in these waters. The peak season for whale watching in Trincomalee typically spans from March/April to August/September, aligning with the whales' migration patterns around the island.

This means that Sri Lanka provides nearly ten months of continuous whale and dolphin watching opportunities throughout the year, offering diverse experiences along its coastline.

Inclusions

01. Hotel Pickup and Drop Off

02. Entrance Tickets

03. Breakfast on Board

04. Sea Sickness Tablets (If Required)

Additional Information

When it comes to whale watching in Sri Lanka, the island's waters offer a truly remarkable experience year-round.

Along the right coast and at the appropriate time, encountering these magnificent creatures is almost guaranteed, regardless of the season.