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Pigeon Island National Park snorkeling: boat hire from Nilaveli and shark safety?

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M
Mia Snorkel•910 rep

What are the boat transfer costs, entry ticket procedures, and swimming guidelines for snorkeling with blacktip reef sharks at Pigeon Island?

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4 Answers from travellers

✓Accepted Answer

Pigeon Island National Park (1km offshore from Nilaveli, Trincomalee) is Sri Lanka’s premier marine national park. Open fiberglass speedboats depart directly from Nilaveli beach (approx. 3,500-5,000 LKR per boat round-trip). Foreign park entrance tickets must be purchased at the DWC ticket counter on the beach before boarding. The shallow coral reef flat hosts juvenile Blacktip Reef Sharks (Carcharhinus melanopterus) and Green Sea Turtles in waist-to-chest deep water. The sharks are non-aggressive; maintain a respectful floating distance without splashing or pursuing them.

39
D
Dr Dharshani NARA•1910 rep

The best season is May to September during the east coast dry window when sea conditions are glassy and underwater visibility reaches 20 meters.

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M
Mia Snorkel•910 rep

Walking on living table coral is strictly prohibited; wear life jackets or practice neutral buoyancy to avoid damaging fragile Acropora formations.

17
R
Rohan Point•930 rep

There are no fresh water stalls or shaded food cafes on the island; carry your own drinking water and reef-safe biodegradable sunscreen.

14
S
Sarah Field Scout•1720 rep

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