Whales and Dolphins Education Programme in Matara

An hour learning what species swim in Sri Lankan waters and how to spot them.

The Great Whales Education Programme is a one-hour classroom session in Matara where you learn about the whales and dolphins in Sri Lankan waters, led by Ms. A.H. Deepika Kumari, who has over 12 years of experience in whale and dolphin watching. The session covers the history of commercial watching in Sri Lanka, the main species you might encounter, current sightings, and what to expect on a live watching trip, with open discussion, refreshments, and locally made souvenirs available to buy.

What’s included

• One-hour education session led by an experienced guide.
• coffee, tea, bottled water and snacks.
• open discussion where you can share your own knowledge and ask questions.
• access to locally designed whale and dolphin souvenirs for purchase.

Times

• Every day No fixed time

Before you book

Group Private 1 group tour ›

Live guide English

Meeting point and pickup No hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point. 1 with pickup ›

Ages Adult (18 to 50 years) · Senior (51 to 95 years) · Youth (13 to 17 years) · Child (5 to 12 years) · Under 5: can't be booked

Cancellation and refunds Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Good to know

Low physical effort Pets welcome Public transport nearby

Operated by Great Whales

Prices and times updated yesterday

Need assistance?Message us on WhatsApp or by email›

Traveler reviews

5.00 ★★★★★ Exceptional 7 verified traveler reviews

Read all the reviews ›

The experience

You arrive at the education centre in Matara for an hour session that covers the marine life you'll see if you book a live watching trip. Ms. A.H. Deepika Kumari, one of the first members of the whale and dolphin watching industry in Sri Lanka, leads the discussion through the species that inhabit Sri Lankan waters (including the Blue Whale, the largest mammal on earth), and explains why they gather here. You'll learn the main watching points around the country, the boats and yachts used for trips, and what conditions and seasons bring the best sightings.

The session is structured as an open discussion, so you exchange what you already know and ask questions. Topics include the commercial watching history in Sri Lanka, the current species sightings, how long a live watching trip takes, weather conditions that affect departures, and the facilities different boat operators provide. Coffee, tea and snacks are served throughout, so you're not sitting through an hour on an empty stomach. Children from age 5 are welcome, making it suitable for families who want to build knowledge before heading out on the water.

At the end of the session, you can buy tickets for a live dolphins and whales watching trip departing from Mirissa, 30 minutes away, or Polhena Beach, 15 minutes from the centre. Locally designed and handmade whale and dolphin souvenirs are also on sale, so you can take something home that supports the local makers.

Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (13 to 17 years); Child (5 to 12 years). Children under 5 can't be included in the booking.

What species of whales and dolphins actually live in Sri Lankan waters?

The programme covers the main species found in Sri Lankan waters, including the Blue Whale, and explains which ones are most commonly sighted. Ms. Kumari discusses current sightings so you know what you're likely to encounter if you book a live watching trip.

How far is Matara from Mirissa, where the live watching trips depart?

Matara is 30 minutes' travelling time from Mirissa and Mirissa Beach, the most famous dolphin and whale watching point in the area. It's 15 minutes from Polhena Beach, another departure point for live watching trips.

Can I book a live watching trip after the education session?

Yes. At the end of the programme, you can buy tickets for a live dolphins and whales watching trip from Mirissa or Polhena Beach. The education session prepares you for what to expect on the water.

What's included during the one-hour session?

Coffee, tea, bottled water and snacks are provided throughout the hour. All fees and taxes are included in the price, and you'll have access to locally made whale and dolphin souvenirs to purchase.