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Whale and dolphin watching in Mirissa. Author Malindu Rathnayaka

Top 10 Facts about Whale and Dolphin watching in Mirissa

Mirissa has become so popular among many travellers for its amazing Whale and Dolphin Watching excursions. Whale watching is one of the most unique and interesting water-related activities visitors can do during a holiday tour in Mirissa.

The warm Indian Ocean of southern Sri Lanka is the best place to spot different species of whales and Dolphins.

There are believed to be around 26 different species of whales traversing this region. They are also different types of playful loved dolphins.

let’s learn the Top 10 Facts about Whale and Dolphin watching in Mirissa

1. Mirissa is the Best and Most Popular Area to go Whale and Dolphin watching

Mirissa makes for a picturesque stay by the sea. It is arguably the best and most popular area to go whale-watching in Sri Lanka.

What makes it a prime spot for whale-watching is its geographic position. This is where the continental shelf is at its narrowest, with ocean depths reaching 1km a few kilometres offshore.

There are plenty of tour operators who offer dolphin- and whale-watching excursions, setting off from Weligama Bay. There are also a few touts that offer tickets at cheaper prices. Some boats cater for eight or so people, others over fifty. Tours start early at 6 am,

2. Safe and Picturesque View of the Whales and Dolphins

The tail fins (flukes) of the blue whale. Author Dan Lundberg.

The boat or canoe will decrease its speed as well as its engine’s sound when reaching the region. Where the whales are most seen.

Visitors get a chance to watch these amazing mammals at a safe distance of at least 300 feet away, with your closest approach being at 100 feet. This allows the visitors to watch the whales responsibly with minimal environmental impact.

Moreover, you will have a better opportunity to learn more about the whales and their behaviour with naturalist guides. Visitors learn how to identify the whales that they see. Also, how to tell when they are coming up on air.

3. Explore the Different Species of Whales Traversing this Region

Whale watching in Mirissa.Author DammikaD

This is another amazing reason why tourist flock to Whale and Dolphin watching in Mirissa. It is believed that Mirissa harbour is home to around 26 different species of whales traversing this region such as Blue whales, Bryde´s whales, Sperm whales, Fin whales, and sometimes Killer whales.

4. Spot One of the Largest ever Creature to have Existed on our Planet

Blue whale tail.Author Peter van der Sluijs.

Blue whales are huge measuring almost 100 feet (30m) in length and upwards of 200 tonnes. Seeing them in the wild in Mirissa is a truly incredible experience.

Visitors will enjoy the view of the Blue whales as they dive into the water. Blue whales dive can more than 100 m in depth for their prey.

In Mirissa, visitors will have a clear view of these huge animals as they lift their bodies vertically. Blue whales can lift all or most of their body vertically.

5. Tourists Must have an Official Government Permit to Snorkel with Whales

Visitors are not allowed to snorkel by themselves with whales. You are supposed to have official Government permission to get in the water with whales.

The reason why visitors are not allowed to swim along with the whales is that the whales might be stressed and upset. Additionally, the territory is heavily protected so don’t think of swimming along with the whales without the official permit as you might get yourself into trouble.

6. The Warm Indian Ocean of Mirissa is the Best Place to Spot a Wide Variety of Dolphins

The beauty of dolphins mirissa.Author Supun1991

You can meet friendly dolphin fish such as common dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, spinner dolphins, Rizzo’s dolphins, and striped dolphins.

striped dolphins could also be spotted as they playfully swim about. There is a good chance to see flying fish and turtles.

7. The Best time to go Whale Watching in Mirissa is from November to April

Visitors are encouraged to visit whale and dolphin watching from November to April. During this time the ocean is calm and whales migrate from the southern hemisphere to the northern hemisphere.

The waters around Mirissa during these months are a prime feeding ground for whales, hence its popularity. The chances of spotting the whales from November- April are 98%. Blue whales are most often seen.

During this season visitors will get a chance of spotting sperm whales, fin whales, Bryde’s whales, short-finned whales, dolphins and rarely killer whales and whale sharks. Sometimes you can pass turtles and flying fish.

 However, from May to October is off-season. This is because the ocean is rough for the boats and it is not worth going. The chances of spotting whales are very low.

8. Buy Sea Sickness Pills to Deal with Sea Sickness

Do not hate your trip to whale and dolphin watching in Mirissa. Visitors are advised to take a few seconds of sickness pills on the morning of your whale watching trip, around 1-2 hours before getting on The boat.

Sea Sickness may make some of the visitors spend most of the boat journey vomiting and feeling miserable. You can buy sea sickness pills from any local pharmacy in Mirissa. A good brand to use is Avomine.

9. Whale and Dolphin Watching in Mirissa is Very Cheap in Comparison to Others

Sri Lanka is very cheap in comparison to the stereotypical ‘western country. This means that whale watching in Mirissa is a lot cheaper than in other places in the world you may be able to go.

10. Mirissa is Rich in Restaurants for Accommodation

Mirissa offers a wide variety of accommodation options, from budget to luxury. Whether you are looking for a hotel close to Mirissa harbour or hidden away in the hills with splendid views, you will find it.

Some of the restaurants near the Mirissa harbour are Imagine Villa Hotel, Cape Weligama resort and Poppies Guesthouse.

After whale and dolphin watching, visitors can swim and relax at Mirissa Beach and Secret Beach. Both are clean with a long stretch of sand to chill out on.

Mirissa Beach is the main one right by the centre of town. This is where most people head after their whale watching.