Boat tours around Galle deliver excellent value with reliable operators and well-organized excursions. The standout experience is whale watching, where you’ll spot blue whales and dolphins in their natural habitat ($130). The peaceful Koggala Lake tours showcase local wildlife, while the Kalametiya Sanctuary offers prime birdwatching opportunities. I especially love the Rock Island snorkeling trips near Unawatuna – the crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life make this a must-do activity. For a splurge, the 3-day sailing adventures from Mirissa ($620) combine comfort with authentic coastal exploration. Let’s explore the best boat tours worth your time and money.
Key Points
- Whale watching cruises in Galle and Mirissa offer sightings of marine mammals in their natural habitat, with pricing starting from $130 per person.
- Koggala Lake boat tours provide a serene exploration of the lake’s natural beauty, priced from $60 per person.
- Birdwatching tours at Kalametiya Sanctuary offer a unique experience, with prices starting from $50 per person.
- Snorkeling and marine activities at Rock Island near Unawatuna allow for vibrant wildlife encounters, costing $28.95 per person.
- Multi-day sailing vacations from Mirissa provide a unique experience along Sri Lanka’s southern coastline, priced from $620 per person.
Whale Watching Cruise From Galle & Mirissa
The Whale Watching Cruise from Galle and Mirissa offers travelers a chance to spot these majestic marine mammals in their natural habitat. Priced from $150 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, continental breakfast, and lunch.
With a maximum of 12 travelers per booking, the cruise allows for an intimate wildlife experience. While some reviews mention a bumpy ride and concerns about overcrowding, the crew’s professionalism and helpfulness have been highlighted.
Travelers should note the cruise’s physical fitness requirements and that it’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility issues.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Whale Watching Cruise is a compelling option for nature enthusiasts visiting Galle.
Read our full review: Whale Watching Cruise From Galle & Mirissa Review
Book now: Check availability
Koggala Lake Boat Tour
A private Koggala Lake boat tour offers travelers a serene and immersive experience exploring the natural beauty of this tranquil inland waterway near Galle, Sri Lanka.
Priced from $60 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, private boat transportation, and entrance tickets.
Though not wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. Infants must sit on laps, and the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant women, or those with heart conditions.
With a perfect 5-star rating across multiple reviews, this boat tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into Sri Lanka’s stunning natural landscapes.
Read our full review: Koggala Lake Boat Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Kalametiya Sanctuary Birdwatching Boat Ride
For travelers seeking a unique birdwatching adventure near Galle, the Kalametiya Sanctuary Birdwatching Boat Ride offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in Sri Lanka’s rich avian diversity.
Located in Galle, this private tour takes guests on a 6:30 AM boat ride through the Kalametiya Sanctuary, a renowned bird-watching hotspot. The tour includes knowledgeable safari guide commentary, as well as food and drinks.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the experience is suitable for most travelers, except those with back problems or serious medical conditions. Priced from $50 per person, the tour allows free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours in advance, making it a flexible and convenient option for nature enthusiasts.
Read our full review: Kalametiya Sanctuary Birdwatching Boat Ride Review
Book now: Check availability
Mirissa Whale-Watching Boat Trip – Galle
Mirissa, a coastal town in southern Sri Lanka, presents the perfect opportunity for travelers to embark on an unforgettable whale-watching adventure.
Operated by ZRI Adventures, this tour offers a chance to spot these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Priced from €67.78 per person, the experience includes transportation via tuk-tuk and complimentary bottled water and snacks.
While most travelers can participate, those with back problems or serious medical conditions may want to reconsider.
With an impressive 4.8/5 rating based on 4 reviews, the tour has received positive feedback on its organization and crew attentiveness, though some participants missed whale sightings.
The host acknowledges the feedback and plans to improve communication on start times.
Read our full review: Mirissa Whale-Watching Boat Trip – Galle Review
Book now: Check availability
Sports Boat- Private Whale Watching Trip( Free Breakfast & Paid Pick-Up)
This private whale watching tour in Galle, Sri Lanka, offers travelers an immersive, up-close encounter with the magnificent marine giants.
Rated 4.8 out of 89 reviews, the trip boasts a 93% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence.
Included in the package are breakfast, snacks, bottled water, and live commentary by a naturalist.
The tour departs at 7 AM, with free pickup within 5 km of Mirissa.
Pricing starts at €774.63 per group (up to 8 people), with a cancellation policy of 24 hours.
Read our full review: Sports Boat- Private Whale Watching Trip( Free Breakfast & Paid Pick-Up) Review
Book now: Check availability
Birdwatching Boat Ride in Kalametiya Sanctuary
Travelers seeking a unique birdwatching experience can embark on a boat ride through the Kalametiya Sanctuary in Galle, Sri Lanka.
The private tour is priced from $21 per person and includes commentary from a knowledgeable safari guide. The boat ride starts at 6:30 am and returns to the meeting point, with food and drinks provided.
While the activity isn’t wheelchair accessible, a moderate fitness level is recommended. Guests can book with confidence, as the tour offers free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling up to 24 hours before the start.
With a 5.0 rating from a single review, this birdwatching boat ride promises an immersive encounter with Sri Lanka’s diverse avian wildlife.
Read our full review: Birdwatching Boat Ride in Kalametiya Sanctuary Review
Book now: Check availability
River Cruise for Birds Watching in Galle
For an immersive birdwatching experience, travelers can embark on a private river cruise along the Ging River in Galle, Sri Lanka.
Accompanied by a naturalist guide, you will spot native Sri Lankan bird species while cruising. The tour is limited to a maximum of 4 people per booking, ensuring a personalized experience.
Pickup and drop-off services are available from selected hotels, and safety equipment like life jackets is provided.
Priced at $108 per group, the cruise offers excellent value, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Reviews indicate a 5.0 rating, highlighting the tour’s quality and customer satisfaction.
Read our full review: River Cruise for Birds Watching in Galle Review
Book now: Check availability
Snorkeling On Beautiful Rock Island – Unawatuna by Boat
Situated just off the coast of Unawatuna, the beautiful Rock Island offers a captivating snorkeling experience for visitors to Galle.
Operated by Sun Diving Sri Lanka, a PADI 5-Star Dive Resort, this tour takes guests on a boat journey to discover the island’s vibrant marine life.
For $28.95 per person, the tour includes snorkeling equipment, refreshments, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
With a maximum of 20 participants, the experience provides an intimate and personalized outing.
Past guests have praised the tour’s organization and the chance to spot fascinating creatures like octopus in their natural habitat.
Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer, this excursion promises an unforgettable underwater adventure.
Read our full review: Snorkeling On Beautiful Rock Island – Unawatuna by Boat Review
Book now: Check availability
Whale Watching Boat Tour From Galle
Departing early from your Galle hotel, this whale watching boat tour takes guests on an unforgettable journey to spot the majestic marine creatures off the coast of Mirissa.
Accommodating up to 8 travelers, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned private transport, and a shared boat for the whale watching experience.
While not wheelchair-accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, excluding those with back problems, heart conditions, or pregnancy.
Priced from $118 per person, the tour offers a lowest price guarantee and flexible cancellation/rescheduling policies.
With confirmation upon booking and a likely sell-out, this whale watching adventure is an opportunity not to be missed.
Read our full review: Whale Watching Boat Tour From Galle Review
Book now: Check availability
Whale Watching in Mirissa by Catamaran Cruise
Embarking on an early morning catamaran cruise, travelers are treated to an unforgettable whale watching experience off the coast of Mirissa.
This 6:30 AM tour, operated by Tuktukdude Leisure, takes a maximum of 25 participants on a journey to spot whales in their natural habitat. The tour includes a freshly prepared breakfast and lunch, refreshments, and a wildlife conservation fee.
Participants can even try stand-up paddle boarding during the cruise. Pickup and drop-off at the Mirissa Fisheries Harbour are provided.
While non-refundable, this whale watching tour is likely to sell out, so travelers should check availability and confirm meeting location details prior to the activity.
Read our full review: Whale Watching in Mirissa by Catamaran Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Whale Watching Boat Tour in Mirissa
Travelers seeking an unforgettable whale watching experience can embark on a shared boat tour from Mirissa Fisheries Harbour at 6:30 AM.
The tour includes entrance tickets, a liter of bottled water, and hotel pick-up and drop-off. While food and drinks aren’t included, the tour offers a chance to spot whales in their natural habitat.
However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart problems. A moderate level of physical fitness is required.
Priced from $78 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a lowest price guarantee.
Read our full review: Whale Watching Boat Tour in Mirissa Review
Book now: Check availability
Whale Watching Cruise From Unawatuna
The Galle whale watching cruise transports travelers to the open ocean, providing an immersive encounter with the region’s majestic marine life.
This 6-hour excursion departs from Unawatuna, offering the chance to spot whale sharks, blue whales, humpbacks, and killer whales in their natural habitat.
With round-trip transportation, complimentary meals, and a maximum group size of 12, the tour caters to adventurous travelers.
While not recommended for pregnant individuals or those with limited mobility, the cruise presents a unique opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures up close.
Priced from $130 per person, the Galle whale watching experience promises an unforgettable day on the water.
Read our full review: Whale Watching Cruise From Unawatuna Review
Book now: Check availability
Sailing Vacation From Mirissa (3 Days/2 Nights)
Departing from the coastal town of Mirissa, this 3-day, 2-night sailing vacation offers guests the chance to enjoy the captivating waters of Galle, Sri Lanka.
Priced from $620 per person, the package includes accommodation on a yacht, 3 meals per day (except for breakfast and lunch on the final day), an English-speaking captain, and access to water sports activities.
While personal expenses, tips, and non-included meals are additional costs, the tour provides a comprehensive sailing experience.
With a private group setting and a non-refundable cancellation policy, this sailing vacation promises an unforgettable adventure along Sri Lanka’s scenic southern coastline.
Read our full review: Sailing Vacation From Mirissa (3 Days/2 Nights) Review
Book now: Check availability
Whale Watching Boat Tour From Koggala
An exhilarating whale-watching adventure awaits visitors in Galle, Sri Lanka.
The Whale Watching Boat Tour from Koggala, operated by Lakpura LLC, offers a chance to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Priced from $99 per person, the tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and an English-speaking chauffeur.
Guests will embark on a shared boat for the whale-watching experience and receive entrance tickets and bottled water. While food, drinks, and gratuities aren’t included, the tour provides a convenient and affordable way to spot whales off the coast of Galle.
Booking in advance is recommended, as this private tour is likely to sell out.
Read our full review: Whale Watching Boat Tour From Koggala Review
Book now: Check availability
Bespoke Whale Watching Cruise to Witness Finned Giants – Mirissa
Galle’s picturesque harbor serves as the starting point for a bespoke whale watching cruise that takes visitors to witness the majestic finned giants of the deep.
Departing from Mirissa Fisheries Harbour, the 3-hour tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to observe whales in their natural habitat. Priced at $84.00 per person, the cruise accommodates a maximum of 2 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
With flexible scheduling and easy cancellation policies, this tour is an ideal choice for nature enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable encounter with Sri Lanka’s marine wildlife.
Operated by Sri Lanka Day Tours, the activity is accessible by public transportation and suitable for most participants, providing a truly unique and immersive whale watching adventure.
Read our full review: Bespoke Whale Watching Cruise to Witness Finned Giants – Mirissa Review
Book now: Check availability
Sailing Vacation From Mirissa (7 Days/ 6 Nights)
Set out on a 7-day sailing adventure from Mirissa, exploring the picturesque waters of Galle, Sri Lanka.
The trip includes 3 nights’ accommodation on a yacht, along with select meals. Enjoy water sports and a private tour, all while enjoying the stunning coastal scenery.
The tour starts at 4 PM from the Mirissa Fisheries Harbour and returns to the same location. Though non-refundable, the experience is a great way to witness Sri Lanka’s natural beauty from a unique perspective.
Priced from €1,801.02 per person, the sailing vacation is operated by Lakpura LLC and excludes beverages and unspecified meals.
Read our full review: Sailing Vacation From Mirissa (7 Days/ 6 Nights) Review
Book now: Check availability
Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary Catamaran Bird Watching Tour
For a truly unique bird watching experience, visitors can opt for the Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary Catamaran Bird Watching Tour. Priced from $55 per person, this private tour takes guests on a journey through the serene Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary, located in Galle, Sri Lanka.
Travelers will enjoy bottled water, fresh coconut, and Cavendish banana during the tour. The experience includes private transportation, all parking fees, and taxes.
Pickup and drop-off are available from hotels around Kalametiya, Tangalle, and Rekawa, making it a convenient option. Although not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and welcomes service animals.
Most travelers can participate in this immersive bird watching adventure.
Read our full review: Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary Catamaran Bird Watching Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Common Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Tours?
Generally, passengers can bring their own food and drinks on boat tours. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand as some may have restrictions or offer on-board catering services.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Special Requirements for the Tours?
Most boat tour operators have age restrictions, often requiring children to be accompanied by an adult. Life jackets and other safety equipment may be mandatory. It’s best to check specific tour policies before booking.
Can I Customize the Itinerary or Duration of the Boat Tours?
Yes, many boat tour operators allow customers to customize the itinerary and duration of the tour. This provides flexibility to accommodate individual preferences and needs. Specific details should be checked with each operator.
Do the Boat Tours Offer Any Discounts or Package Deals?
Many boat tour operators offer discounts and package deals to attract customers. They may provide group pricing, family packages, or seasonal promotions. It’s best to inquire about any special offers when booking your tour.
What Should I Bring With Me on the Boat Tours?
When going on a boat tour, it’s a good idea to bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and water. Packing a light snack or camera can also enhance the experience. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended for safety.
The Sum Up
Galle offers a variety of boat tours and cruises that cater to different interests. From whale watching and birdwatching to scenic lake tours and sailing vacations, there’s something for all. With options ranging from group tours to private charters, visitors can choose the experience that best suits their preferences and budget. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Galle’s waterways provide an excellent way to explore the region’s natural wonders.