Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
BLUE WHALE TOURS
Only in recent years have marine biologists realised that blue whales - the world's largest
living mammal - are remarkably similar to many holidaying humans: they like Sri Lanka's
coast. In fact, the waters off Mirissa and Dondra Head to the east often host some of the
world's largest number of blue whales. (On the east coast, Trincomalee is another excel-
lent place for blue whale spotting.)
The stats for blue whales are as extraordinary as their size: 30m long and weighing 170
tonnes (which makes them heavier than any known dinosaur by a significant amount).
They are thought to live for more than 80 years, but this is not well understood as re-
search has been scant, primarily because there were so few blues whales left after whal-
ing finally ended in the 1970s (maybe 5000 whales were in the world's oceans then, 1% of
the population just 200 years before).
Mirissa-based boat tours to spot blue whales are a major draw for visitors and there are
many competing operators. Besides the blues, it's common to spot their smaller cousins,
sperm whales (20m long, 57 tonnes), and various dolphins. A few points to consider:
Although blue whales have been spotted throughout the year, December and April seem
to be the peak months.
Avoid May to July as monsoon season makes the waters very rough.
Tours usually depart at 6.30am and last about two to seven hours, depending on how
long it takes to find whales. This can make for a long day if seas are rough.
Established tour boats have at least two levels for viewing, plus proper toilet facilities.
Look for tours which respect international conventions about approaching whales. Ask
about this before you book.
Avoid rogue operators or chartered fishing boats as many of these are known to harass
whales, for example by boxing one animal between two boats.
Ask about food and drink availability. Find out if there are binoculars for passengers to
use.
Recommended operators include the following:
Raja and the Whales
WHALE WATCHING
( 077 695 3452;
www.rajaandthewhales.com
;
Mirissa Harbour;adult/child Rs 6000/3000)
Uses a two-level trimaran for trips, follows international guidelines for approaching
whales.
