Bentota watersports jet ski and banana boat is it safely operated in 2026

Bentota is the watersports hub. Reputable operators run on the lagoon side (calmer, safer), not the open sea where rip currents matter. Standards have improved but vary by operator. Rules I would insist on as a customer: (1) Properly fitted, recently inspected life vest WORN AT ALL TIMES; politely refuse if vests are torn or missing buckles. (2) A short briefing in English before the activity. (3) Jet ski sessions of 15 to 30 minutes (not the "5 minute" rip-offs). (4) An emergency boat visible on the water. Indicative 2026 prices: jet ski 15 to 20 mins around 6,000 to 8,000 LKR, banana boat per person around 2,500 to 3,500 LKR, parasailing around 8,000 to 12,000 LKR. Pay AFTER the activity ideally, and choose operators tied to established hotels for accountability. Skip parasailing if winds are gusty.