Sea encounters - Sri Lanka

The Sri Lankan coast is a peaceful abode for whales and dolphins with its plentiful reserves of fish and plankton. Trincomalee is well-known for its concentration of whales and dolphins, although it is difficult to access due to the latest political tension. The Kalpitiya peninsula north of Colombo is also ready to be explored. After an early departure from the beach and a short boat ride away, not one, not ten dolphins, but hundreds of dolphins can be seen swimming in the water! An impressive show to say the least! The boat follows the swarm; the swarm follows the boat...difficult to tell who's following who! Hours can be spent watching the playful wanderers. There are organised excursions onboard highly secured boats, departing every morning organised by various hotels including the newly-opened Alankuda Resort. Fishermen also take visitors out to sea for excursions although the boats are not as safe. Whichever the option the traveller takes, the minimum requirement is a lifejacket. Other phenomenon to look out for during the migration period (March): Blue Whales. For a glimpse, a journey out into the open sea must be embarked upon from Mirissa Port. It is sometimes possible to see the whales from the mainland at South Dondra due to the continental plateaus being so narrow. A moving sight it is despite not being able to approach them.