Blue whales commonly sighted off southern Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has recently completed its first fully fledged whale watching season.

Between 08 October 2008 and 13 April 2009, Mirissa Water Sports had 108 whale watching expeditions, during which Blue whales were encountered 71 per cent of the time. The strike rate was even higher during the December to April period, peaking from January to April. During March and April Blue whales were recorded almost every day.

The early arrival of the monsoon rains made the seas too rough after the 13th April. The data confirms that the South of Sri Lanka is the most reliable place in the world in which to see Blue Whales, during the main season.

To see a full account o the seasons whale sightings, click here.

Other species recorded during the season by boats from Mirissa Water Sports and the Ceylon Fishery Harbours Corporation/Walkers Tours included the following.

Additionally, with the recent military defeat of the Tamil Tigers (LTTE), whale watching opportunities will hopefully arise on the East coast, especially in the area around Trincomalee, which was once famous for Blue Whales.

Cortesy of Jetwing Eco Tours

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