Mirissa Whale Watching
Half Day Ocean Adventure
Encounter majestic blue whales and playful dolphins in their natural habitat
Duration
Half Day
Start Time
6:30 AM
Group Size
2-30 people
Price
$80
Set sail from the charming fishing village of Mirissa for one of the world's best whale and dolphin watching experiences. The deep waters off Sri Lanka's southern coast are a migration highway for blue whales, sperm whales, and fin whales from November to April.
With a 90-95% success rate during peak season, you have excellent chances of witnessing the planet's largest creature – the magnificent blue whale – along with spinner dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, and sea turtles.
6:00 AM - Hotel Pickup
Early morning pickup from hotels in Mirissa, Weligama, or nearby areas. Light breakfast available at the harbor.
6:30 AM - Safety Briefing & Departure
Board the whale watching boat at Mirissa Fisheries Harbor. Experienced captain and marine biologist will provide:
- • Safety instructions and life jacket fitting
- • Information about whales and dolphins you might encounter
- • Photography tips for capturing marine life
- • Responsible whale watching guidelines
7:00 AM - 11:00 AM - Ocean Exploration
Venture 15-20 nautical miles offshore into the deep blue waters. What you might see:
- • Blue Whales - Up to 30 meters long, the largest animals on Earth
- • Sperm Whales - Deep divers with distinctive bushy blows
- • Fin Whales - Second largest whale species
- • Bryde's Whales - Year-round residents
- • Spinner Dolphins - Pods of 50-200 performing acrobatic leaps
- • Bottlenose Dolphins - Playful and curious
- • Green Sea Turtles - Swimming on the surface
- • Flying Fish - Skimming across the waves
The boat follows ethical guidelines: maintains safe distance, no chasing, engine off when near whales
Onboard Facilities
Your comfort during the 4-5 hour trip:
- • Shaded seating areas
- • Open deck for photography
- • Restroom facilities
- • Light breakfast (sandwiches, fruits)
- • Water and soft drinks
- • Seasickness medication available
11:30 AM - Return to Harbor
Return journey to Mirissa harbor. Share your experiences and photos with fellow passengers.
12:00 PM - Hotel Drop-off
Transfer back to your hotel with unforgettable memories of ocean giants.
Best Time to Visit
- • Peak Season: November to April
- • Highest Success Rate: December to March (95%)
- • Calmest Seas: January to March
- • Blue Whale Migration: December to April
- • Dolphin Pods: Year-round but larger groups in season
What to Bring
- • Sunscreen (reef-safe)
- • Sunglasses and wide-brimmed hat
- • Light jacket (can be windy at sea)
- • Camera with zoom lens (200-300mm ideal)
- • Waterproof bag for electronics
- • Motion sickness medication (take 30 mins before)
- • Comfortable shoes with grip
- Hotel pickup & drop-off
- Multi-level whale watching boat
- Marine biologist guide
- Life jackets & safety equipment
- Light breakfast onboard
- Water & refreshments
- Onboard restroom
- • Lunch after tour
- • Personal expenses
- • Tips for crew
- • Travel insurance
Meet the Giants of the Ocean
Book your whale watching adventure for a once-in-a-lifetime experience