Trincomalee vs Mirissa for ethical whale watching in Sri Lanka
7 Answers from travellers
Trincomalee is currently considered slightly better for ethical encounters, primarily because the Navy operates many of the tours there and strictly enforces the 100-meter distance rule. Mirissa has a massive private commercial fleet, and while companies like Raja and the Whales are highly ethical, many cheap rogue boats there will chase the whales relentlessly. If you go to Mirissa, research the operator thoroughly.
It also depends on the season! Trincomalee is best from May to October, Mirissa is November to April.
They are a bit utilitarian but very safe and stable in the ocean swell.
Always check if they have WDC certification on their website.
Sperm whales are more common in Trincomalee, while blue whales dominate Mirissa.
Do not take the small fiberglass speedboats in Mirissa. They are the ones breaking all the rules.
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