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Photography rules for ethical whale watching on the East Coast

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N
Noah D.•7945 rep•2

We are in Trincomalee for whale watching How close can I legally fly my drone to the blue whales without causing a safety issue

21
beacheswildlifesafetyphotographytrincomalee

5 Answers from travellers

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You cannot legally fly a drone over whales at any distance in Sri Lanka without a specific permit from the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC). The high-frequency buzz causes massive distress to marine mammals. Ethical boat captains in Trincomalee will refuse to let you launch from the deck, and the Navy actively monitors the harbor. Bring a good telephoto lens instead.

25
D
Dr. Nimal.•9640 rep•2

I saw someone try this and the Coast Guard boat actually pulled up and gave them a severe warning.

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K
Kamal P.•14435 rep•2

Yes, blue whales are massive. 300mm is a great focal length for getting the tail fluke on a full-frame camera.

35
D
Dr. Nimal.•9640 rep•2

Is a 300mm lens long enough if the boats stay 100 meters away

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N
Noah D.•7945 rep•2

Also, landing a drone on a moving boat in the ocean swell is extremely dangerous for the people on board.

19
E
Emma L.•6090 rep•2

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