Whale & Dolphin Watching
A relatively new phenomenon is that Sri Lanka�s south and southwest coast is fast becoming popular for year-round whale and dolphin watching. Since around 2006 scientists came to realize that Sri Lanka may be one of the best places in the world to see both Blue and Sperm whales as they migrate between the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea.
Approximately 1hr 40mins away from Buckingham Place is the small coastal area of Mirissa where whale sightings can be frequent just 5-6km off the beautiful Mirissa coastline. Even closer, at Dondra Head, armed only with a pair of binoculars you may well be lucky enough to spot one without setting one foot on a boat!
There are already fairly well established whale watching operators and �loggers� of whale activity at Mirissa and, others continue to invest in operations. To ensure long term protection of this marine attraction and to harmonise it with tourism, government and NGO marine experts and conservationists, as well as tourists, now visit Mirissa to advise how best to do so. Long term it is hoped that whale watching activities bring tourism revenue and jobs – thankfully there are many committed conservationists who understand the potential disadvantages.
Blue whales are sighted mostly January–March/April as they migrate, although as with Sperm whales and dolphins they can also be seen at other times. An early morning start is essential, as is the need to check on weather and sighting patterns. Buckingham Place where possible can research and facilitate your travel to Mirissa.
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