Ethical blue whale watching distances and rogue boats in Mirissa

Asked about 2 months agoSeen by 3,375 travellers38 found this helpful
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Noah D.6690 rep2
asked about 2 months 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.

38
asked about 2 months ago
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Noah D.6690 rep2

8 Answers from travellers

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 2 months ago
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Dr. Nimal.6540 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 2 months ago
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Bhante S.15460 rep2

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

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answered about 2 months ago
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Emma L.6235 rep2

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 2 months ago
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Emma L.6235 rep2

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

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answered about 2 months ago
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Bhante S.15460 rep2

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

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answered about 2 months ago
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Noah D.6690 rep2

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

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answered about 2 months ago
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Dr. Nimal.6540 rep1

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

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answered about 2 months ago
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Noah D.6690 rep2

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