Snorkeling with blue whales vs standard boat tours in Trincomalee

Asked about 2 months agoSeen by 346 travellers13 found this helpful
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Noah D.6045 rep2
asked about 2 months ago

We are heading to Trincomalee. Some locals offered a private boat to go snorkeling with blue whales. Is this safe or legal compared to a normal tour.

13
asked about 2 months ago
N
Noah D.6045 rep2

4 Answers from travellers

Accepted Answer

It is highly illegal. Swimming with whales requires a special research permit in Sri Lanka. Commercial snorkeling with whales is banned to protect the animals from harassment and boat strikes. Local fishermen offering this are breaking the law. If the Navy catches you, you will be heavily fined. Stick to the official, ethical boat tours.

22
answered about 2 months ago
D
Dr. Nimal.24730 rep1

Also, jumping into the open ocean next to a 30-meter wild animal that is swimming fast is incredibly dangerous.

37
answered about 2 months ago
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Emma L.5335 rep2

Pigeon Island it is. Thanks for the heads up on the scam.

28
answered about 2 months ago
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Noah D.6045 rep2

You can snorkel with blacktip reef sharks safely at Pigeon Island instead!

18
answered about 2 months ago
B
Bhante S.5620 rep1

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