Snorkeling with Whales Responsibly in Sri Lanka
We specialize in curating unforgettable personal snorkeling adventures with whales and exclusive photographic experiences of marine mammals in Sri Lankan waters. Our focus is on ensuring a memorable and respectful interaction with these magnificent creatures, prioritizing their well-being and providing a truly enjoyable encounter for everyone involved.
Our Widely Published Photographs
In February 2016, we embarked on a pioneering photo expedition to snorkel with whales, capturing the majestic Blue Whales in stunning imagery. Our extraordinary photographs were featured in renowned publications including Red Bull, Daily Mail UK, and Dive Photo Guide. This inaugural venture into snorkeling with whales was led by French animal rights activist and talented underwater choreographer Marianne Aventurier, alongside skilled photographers Alex Barnab Voyer and Roubaud Alexandre. Their passion and expertise guided us to Mirissa, where we explored new horizons in whale photography, all while adhering strictly to legal guidelines.
This experience not only deepened our understanding of the responsibility involved in snorkeling with whales but was also enriched by Marianne Aventurier's profound knowledge and the inherent risks of the activity.
Our Experince in Securing Permits for BBC Blue Planet in Sri Lanka
In 2017, we reached a significant milestone by securing permits for the esteemed BBC Blue Planet crew to film the breathtaking marine wonders of Sri Lanka. Despite encountering considerable resistance from the Wildlife Department, our determination and perseverance led to this groundbreaking collaboration.
This achievement showcased Sri Lanka’s rich marine biodiversity to a global audience. The captivating footage produced by the Blue Planet team highlighted the extraordinary beauty of Sri Lanka's whale snorkeling experiences, inspiring viewers around the world.
Dates Group Sailing - 2025
Mirissa
3-7 March - (if you like you can share the filming permit fee)
Kalpitiya
17 - 21 March - (if you like you can share the filming permit fee)
Trinco
24 - 28 March - (if you like you can share the filming permit fee)
Cost of Filming Permit For a Group
250 USD for one day
350 USD for 2-6 days
400 USD for 7-13 days
450 USD for 14-20 days
500 USD for 21-30 days.
If you visit two WPAs, then you need to apply for two permits.
Filiming Permit
A filming permit is an official authorization required to capture photographs or videos within wildlife protected areas (WPAs) or to document wildlife in general. In Sri Lanka, this permit is essential for both protected areas and regions where the wellbeing of animals is under the jurisdiction of the Wildlife Department.
This is how a personal permit look like, here.
Sri Lankan Whale Species
Pygmy Blue whale
Omura's whale
About this Whale Snorkeling
Best season : Second, Third & Forth weeks of December & from mid February to mid April
Available : Daily
Best time to start : Early mornings (we change the time depending on local eventualities)
Arranging time needed : Two weeks (to acquire filming permit)
Starting point : Kalpitiya, Mirissa and Trinco
Activity starting time : Usually around 6 AM / In Mirissa after 11.30 AM
Whole touring hrs : 3-6 hrs (depends)
Number of snorkelers : If you really care about the animal, stick to 3-4 snorkelers the most.
Be mindful : A wildlife officer will be onboard the boat. Copy of your videos/photos needed to submit to Wildlife Department - watermarks can be used on them.
Restrictions : One of our staff members will impose strict monitoring of boat maneuvers and underwater photographers. Sudden boat maneuvers and accelerations are discouraged. No animal touching encouraged. Please keep your plastics within the boat. Copy of your production must be submitted to us before you depart.
Probability of taking good photographs : 20% per day / 100% - if tried 5 days.
A good snorkeler : Uses fins and snorkels in submissive colors / do not make noises jumping into water and snorkeling.
Sri Lankan sea water temperature : Above 20°C/68°F all year around. Usually around 27-28°C. Check today's temperature.
Option 1
Fixed-date & sharing
Dinghy boat - 250 USD per person in Trinco, Kalpitiya & Mirissa - Minimum 3 or Max 4 snorkelers needed to run the operation
Speed boat - 300 USD per person in Mirissa - Minimum 3 or Max 4 snorkelers needed to run the operation
Price includes : Filiming permit from Willdlife Department with your name on the permit / Our administrative fee / Boat / Professional skipper / Seeker / Fresh fruits & water on board / All Gov taxes.
Not included :
- 30 USD - per day - our company person on board (this is a mandatory expense) /
- 8 USD or 20 USD - Park entrace fee - (8 USD per person, per day, in Kalpitiya & Trinco & 20 USD per person, per day, in Mirissa.) /
- 8 USD - Fins and mask per pare (recommend bringing your personal gear).
Option 2
Charting your own boat
Dinghy boat - 400 USD per boat in Trinco, Kalpitiya & Mirissa
Speed boat - 800 USD per boat in Mirissa
Price includes : Boat / Professional skipper / Seeker / Fresh fruits & water on board / All Gov taxes.
Not included :
- Filming permit - 250 USD for one day / 350 USD for 2-6 days / 400 USD for 7-13 days / 450 USD for 14-20 days / 500 USD for 21-30 days. /
- One time payment of our administrative fee to acquire permits - (150 USD per first person and 50 USD for each additional person) /
- 30 USD - per day - our company person on board (this is a mandatory expense) /
- 8 USD or 20 USD - Park entrace fee - (8 USD per person, per day, in Kalpitiya & Trinco & 20 USD per person, per day, in Mirissa.) /
- 8 USD - Fins and mask per pare (recommend bringing your personal gear).
Option 3
Deciding where to go once you are arrived in the Island.
It is nearly impossible to predict if the mammals be there in a certain place in a certain time of the day. So, why would not you come to Sri Lanka first - and then ask us to take to where the mammals are? Email us to arrange your trip.
Option 4
Charter an ultra modern yacht & speedboats.
We have access to few catamarans with cabins and speedboats. On those catamarans, well equipped with on-board kitchen, the chef and the staff will look after you fine! Standby safety craft offers you the freedom. Of cause, anchoring near the shore for land accommodation is also possible. Email us to arrange your trip.
Optional : Snorkelling guide 80 USD per trip / Pro underwater photographer 200 USD per day / Rent a pro underwater camera, here.
Feedback us : Our drivers and service providers are advised not to promote any other activities outside of our acknowledgment, established personal contacts or nudge you for shopping. Please leave your feedback about our services on our Google feedback page.
You may bring : Motion sickness pills / Hat and sun glass / Sun cream / Camera
We love holiday planning!
Snorkelling with Whales In Mirissa,
the optimal conditions for underwater photographers—featuring the clearest visibility and calmest seas—are typically from mid-February to mid-April. During this period, you can capture stunning images of blues, sperms, pilot whales, dolphins, and whale sharks.
The calmer beach season in Mirissa generally begins in October. Interestingly, these magnificent creatures are often more visible during the off-season, from April to October. This time of year is ideal for taking a local flight to observe marine mammals from above.
However, it's worth noting that the growing number of whale-watching boats in Mirissa—around 40 to 70—tends to be less accommodating towards underwater photographers and snorkelers. Many boat operators express dissatisfaction with both snorkelers and those who legally or illegally cater to them. Additionally, there's a local superstitious belief that underwater observers bring bad luck to the whale-watching industry. In reality, it's the irresponsible practices of some illegal operators that often drive whales farther from shore. For a deeper understanding of these issues, you may find our video insightful.
Given these dynamics, it’s common for Wildlife Officers to accompany boats that venture out for underwater photography in Mirissa.
Snorkelling with Whales In Trincomalee,
underwater photographers will find the best visibility and sea conditions from mid-February to September. During this period, the waters are particularly clear and conducive for capturing stunning underwater images. Mammal sightings peak from February to mid-April and again from August to September. While Trincomalee generally records slightly fewer whale encounters compared to Mirissa, it still offers remarkable opportunities for marine photography.
From mid-February to mid-April, Trincomalee is a hotspot for a diverse array of whale and dolphin species. This is the prime time to observe Beaked Whales and the largest gatherings of Bryde's Whales. Blues and Sperm Whales are most commonly sighted between October and April, while Orcas are frequently spotted in September. Pilot Whales and False Killer Whales appear between March and June, and Spinner Dolphins are commonly seen around Koddiyar Bay in the mornings.
For your boating needs, Trincomalee offers a range of options. The most common boats are 18-21 ft dinghies powered by 20-40 hp kerosene engines, some of which come with sunshades. We also provide access to a fleet of modern catamarans with cabins for overnight stays, along with a beautifully refurbished lobster hull boat and a speedboat. Explore your options here.
It's worth noting that the Wildlife Department and Coast Guards in Trincomalee are still developing their monitoring and permit systems.
Snorkelling with Whales In Kalpitiya,
underwater photographers will find the optimal visibility and sea conditions from mid-February to mid-April. This unique destination in Sri Lanka is renowned for its exceptional Sperm Whale sightings, which are among the best recorded in the country. Kalpitiya also occasionally hosts Humpback and Killer Whales.
Kalpitiya's proximity to the Indian Peninsula makes it a prime location for marine life. The Gulf of Mannar, enriched by phytoplankton and zooplankton from the Southwest monsoon rains and winds from Kerala, attracts a diverse array of marine mammals, including Dugongs. Additionally, the largest vibrant coral reef in Sri Lanka lies just off Kalpitiya's coast.
For those interested in extended stays, we can arrange a speed boat or catamaran for more than seven days. Explore your options here. Alternatively, for shorter trips, we offer 18-21 ft dinghies equipped with 20-40 hp kerosene engines.
If you're an adventurous spirit looking to explore uncharted waters with minimal bureaucratic hurdles, we have a few exclusive suggestions that promise a unique and uncrowded experience.
Conclusion
In Sri Lankan waters, snorkeling with whales or photographing marine mammals underwater without a valid filming permit from the Wildlife Department of Sri Lanka is prohibited. To obtain this permit, you must seek approval from the Director General of the Wildlife Department in Colombo. The process generally takes about 2-3 weeks and specifies the exact Whale Protection Area (WPA) and the designated filming dates. This regulation is in place to ensure that wildlife interactions are conducted with the utmost responsibility and respect for the animals' wellbeing.
Unfortunately, many snorkelers engage in whale snorkeling without fully understanding the legal requirements or are misinformed by local travel agents or boat operators. If you find yourself snorkeling without the appropriate permit, it is best to avoid interactions with Sri Lankan Wildlife Officers, the Navy, and Coast Guards.
For a truly rewarding and responsible whale snorkeling experience, always ensure you are in compliance with local regulations and respect the marine animals' space. Enjoy your adventure with both excitement and consideration for wildlife.
Contact us to arrange your personal experience with snorkeling with whales!
Tara –
I booked with cctsl in hopes of filming blue whales; they were honest with me while we were corresponding stating whale sightings were very scarce in the area that I was hoping to travel to. Knowing about the uncertainty of nature and “no guarantees” I decided to take the gamble…I’m glad I did! Out of the 3 days to sea, I got a very calm blue whale (the same one!) on 2 of those days. We also saw a brydes whale, dwarf sperm whale and spinner dolphins. I will definitely book with CCT the next time I visit Sri Lanka!
Merrill McCauley –
We booked trips with Cross Country Travels to swim with whales in Trino and Kalpitiya and we had such a wonderful time! The boats they took us in were well-maintained, comfortable and the boat captains were very friendly, knowledgeable and experienced about the local waters. Our whale guides were also very friendly, knowledgeable and tried hard to find us whales to swim with, which we did! We swam with sperm whales, fin whales and also spinner dolphins and sea turtles. I had corresponded a lot with the owner of CCT (Anu) prior to our trip and he was super helpful in setting us up with the trip of our dreams to Sri Lanka, handling all of the logistics and our lovely accommodations in Trino and Kalpitiya. It was very helpful to have him as a local tour owner/operator, because he was able to have connections to local whale guides/fishermen in the area who would call him or our captain to tell them where anyone else was seeing the whales, which really increased our chances of seeing and being able to swim with them. Also, most importantly, Anu and his guides were very respectful of the whales and wildlife when we did see them and did not do anything to harass them, which was great to see. Would definitely recommend booking your Sri Lanka whale swim adventure with CCT!
Elvina –
We had a glorious trip to Sri Lanka with CCT. Anu and team were so incredibly thoughtful and lined up a trip like no other. We went there for the whales, but I fell in love with the scenery, the food and the genuine hospitality of the people. I particularly loved the impromptu stops for roadside delicacies! Thanks for a great trip!!
Elvina