Ethical blue whale watching distances and bad boats in Mirissa

Asked about 2 months agoSeen by 121 travellers12 found this helpful
N
Noah D.6750 rep2
asked about 2 months ago

I am booking a whale tour in Mirissa. How close are boats legally allowed to get, and how do I avoid the unethical operators.

12
asked about 2 months ago
N
Noah D.6750 rep2

7 Answers from travellers

Accepted Answer

The Department of Wildlife Conservation mandates a strict 100-meter minimum distance. Ethical boats must approach slowly, parallel to the whale, and never surround it. Rogue operators (usually selling cheap tickets on the beach) will speed right up to the whale and approach head-on. Book with WDC certified operators like Raja and the Whales to ensure ethical viewing.

25
answered about 2 months ago
D
Dr. Nimal.10180 rep1

I went on a cheap boat and they chased a whale until it dove deep to escape. It was horrible.

36
answered about 2 months ago
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Emma L.7850 rep2

The Navy actually suspends the licenses of boats caught harassing whales now.

25
answered about 2 months ago
E
Emma L.7850 rep2

Excellent. I will book with an ethical company only.

17
answered about 2 months ago
N
Noah D.6750 rep2

Is a 200mm camera lens enough if the boat stays 100m away.

13
answered about 2 months ago
N
Noah D.6750 rep2

If your boat breaks the rules, report the registration number to the Coast Guard.

4
answered about 2 months ago
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Bhante S.6690 rep1

Yes, blue whales are massive. 200mm to 300mm is perfect for a good crop.

3
answered about 2 months ago
D
Dr. Nimal.10180 rep1

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