Ethical blue whale watching distances and rogue boats in Mirissa

Asked about 10 hours agoViewed 2235 times
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Noah D.2350 rep2
asked about 10 hours ago

I want to see the blue whales in Mirissa, but I do not want to support boats that harass them. How close are boats legally allowed to get.

18
asked about 10 hours ago
N
Noah D.2350 rep2

8 Answers

Accepted Answer

The legal limit set by the Department of Wildlife Conservation is 100 meters. Ethical boats must approach slowly, parallel to the whale, and put the engine in neutral. Rogue operators (usually the cheapest tickets sold on the beach) will speed right up to the whale, approach head-on, or surround it. Book with certified operators like Raja and the Whales to ensure ethical viewing.

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answered about 9 hours ago
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Dr. Nimal.2850 rep1

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

46
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answered about 8 hours ago
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Bhante S.2160 rep1

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

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answered about 9 hours ago
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Emma L.2485 rep2

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

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answered about 9 hours ago
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Dr. Nimal.2850 rep1

If your boat breaks the rules, take a photo of the registration number and report them to the Coast Guard.

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answered about 9 hours ago
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Bhante S.2160 rep1

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

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answered about 9 hours ago
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Noah D.2350 rep2

Do not forget motion sickness pills. The ocean off Mirissa is very rough.

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answered about 8 hours ago
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Emma L.2485 rep2

Excellent. I will book with an ethical company and report anyone I see breaking the rules.

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answered about 8 hours ago
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Noah D.2350 rep2

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