Whales & Dolphin Watching

Go through the information below and reach out to us to see how you can experience whales & Dolphin Watching in Sri Lanka.

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Trincomalee & Southern Coast

Blue whales, along with smaller populations of sperm whales, pilot whales, and sei whales, are frequently observed approximately six to eight nautical miles east of Trincomalee, which is approximately a 30-minute boat ride. Additionally, Spinner dolphins are commonly sighted in the area. These dolphins are often seen in sizable pods, playfully swimming and leaping near boats, showcasing their inquisitiveness and agility.

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Season

Sightings are most prevalent from March to April and August to September, aligning with the whales' migratory patterns along the island's coast. Particularly, whales gather predominantly on the south coast from December to April. Consequently, Sri Lanka provides approximately ten months of uninterrupted whale and dolphin watching opportunities throughout various coastal regions annually.

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Whale Watching in Kalpitiya 

The Kalpitiya coastline presents exceptional opportunities for whale watching in Sri Lanka. The deeper waters in this region are inhabited by six distinct whale species: the Blue, Minke, Melon-Headed, Pilot, Brydes, and Dwarf Sperm whales. 

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Season: 

Peak whale watching seasons occur from November to December and again from March to April. These periods offer optimal opportunities to observe these majestic marine mammals up close. Particularly, November and April stand out as the prime months for whale watching in Sri Lanka, with a high concentration of whales near the shore during their migration phases.

 

Dolphin Watching in Kalpitiya

Season:

The optimal season for dolphin watching in Kalpitiya spans from November to April, as various dolphin species migrate to the region from colder waters. 

The serene waters during this period facilitate enhanced dolphin sightings, including the spectacle of superpods comprising hundreds, if not thousands, of dolphins. Typically, dolphin watching excursions commence early in the morning and extend for 2-3 hours. Among the prevalent dolphin species in Kalpitiya, the long-snouted Spinner dolphins are the most commonly observed, as they favor the offshore tropical waters in this area. Additionally, species such as Bottlenose, Risso, and Indo-Pacific Humpback dolphins can also be encountered in Kalpitiya. These enchanting and lively marine mammals offer an awe-inspiring and memorable viewing experience.

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Tip

The Indian Ocean may get uncalm in nature, often featuring a gentle swell. For individuals susceptible to seasickness or embarking on their first voyage in the Indian Ocean, it is advisable to consume seasickness medication in the morning before boarding the vessel (approximately 1-2 hours prior). These medications, such as "Avomine" or "Celenid," are readily available in local pharmacies across Sri Lanka. Prior to usage, we recommend seeking guidance from your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

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