Photography rules for ethical whale watching on the East Coast

Asked about 2 months agoSeen by 2,262 travellers21 found this helpful
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Noah D.7945 rep2
asked about 2 months ago

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
asked about 2 months ago
N
Noah D.7945 rep2

5 Answers from travellers

Accepted Answer

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.

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answered about 2 months ago
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Dr. Nimal.9640 rep2

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

39
answered about 2 months ago
K
Kamal P.14435 rep2

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

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answered about 2 months ago
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Dr. Nimal.9640 rep2

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

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answered about 2 months ago
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Noah D.7945 rep2

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

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answered about 2 months ago
E
Emma L.6090 rep2

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