In season (November to March), if whales have been spotted in the bay we recommend departing from Mirissa Harbour at 07.00 for a 3 to 4-hour optional Whale Watching boat ride on the warm Indian Ocean (your guide will book your tickets but you must pay locally - approximately $70 per person, depending on the exchange rate).
You can hope to see Blue whale, Bryde´s whale, Sperm whale, Fin whale and sometimes a Killer whale. Blue whales in concentrations not seen elsewhere in the world will be the highlight. Common dolphin, Bottlenose dolphin, Spinner dolphin, Risso's dolphin and Striped dolphin are also seen in these clear waters and you may even see turtle, bluefin tuna and flying fish.
Afterwards leave Mirissa and transfer 1-hour to the fortified town of Galle. Galle Fort has a colourful history, as it was originally built by the Portuguese and later heavily fortified by the Dutch. It is today a World Heritage Site, with a multi-ethnic and multi-religious population living within its walls.
Enjoy a Walking Tour of Galle Fort, after which you will be dropped off at your hotel on the beautiful Galle Coast.
Note: Expect the shared boat ride to be fairly chaotic. Private boat rides are available for a supplement. Wear a jacket as it can get cold on the boat and take a sun hat, sun glasses, binoculars, sunscreen, camera & small towel. Take your own snacks & drinks. You will be on the water for several hours in seas that can be rough, so if you are not a good sailor remember to take preventative travel sickness tablets well in advance.