Tour at a glance
| Departure | Nilaveli beach, around sunrise |
|---|---|
| Duration | About 2 hours |
| Group size | Up to 7 guests per boat |
| Shared price | €25 adults · €18 children |
| Private price | €100–€185 per boat, 1–7 guests |
| Season | Roughly March to October |
Why Trincomalee for whales
Trincomalee sits beside one of the largest natural harbours in the world, and a deep submarine canyon runs close to the coast. Deep water near shore means shorter trips to where whales may be feeding. Unlike the south coast, the east coast's calmer months are usually March to October.
Shared or private
On a shared whale watching tour you join other travellers on a boat for up to 7 guests, the most affordable way to go. A private whale watching boat gives your group the whole boat and a start time agreed with us.
What you may see
Whales
Blue whales and sperm whales are the species most visitors hope for; other whales are recorded less often. Read more about blue whale watching in Sri Lanka.
Dolphins
Spinner dolphins are the most frequently seen, often in large pods. See dolphin watching in Trincomalee.
Other wildlife
Flying fish, seabirds and, occasionally, turtles.
Your morning step by step
Meet on Nilaveli beach at the time in your confirmation. Life jackets and a short briefing from the captain. Depart at sunrise. Our spotter watches for blows, fins and splashes. When we find animals, we slow down, keep our distance and let them set the pace. Back on the beach about two hours after leaving.
What's included
Boat and fuel, captain, spotter, life jackets, drinking water and a safety briefing. Not included: hotel transfers, food, tips and personal expenses.
Season, safety and responsible watching
See the Trincomalee whale watching season guide, our safety guide and our responsible watching code.
Whales and dolphins are wild animals. Sightings cannot be guaranteed and depend on wildlife behaviour, weather and sea conditions.
Questions
What time does the trip start?
We leave Nilaveli beach at sunrise, when the sea is usually calmest. Sunrise changes through the year, so we confirm the exact meeting time with your booking.
Will we definitely see whales?
No one can promise that. Whales and dolphins are wild, and sightings depend on their behaviour, the weather and the sea. Spinner dolphins are seen on many trips; whales are less predictable.
Can children come?
Yes. Child-size life jackets are provided and an adult must hold small children at all times. Please tell us your children’s ages when you book. Read our safety guide.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The captain checks the sea before every trip. We never go out in conditions we judge unsafe. If a trip can’t go ahead, we contact you straight away by WhatsApp.