THE SAILING SHIP EARL OF SHAFTESBURY AND THE SS CONCH, THE WORLD’S FIRST STEAM-POWERED OIL TANKER, BOTH LIE WITHIN 20 MINUTES BOAT JOURNEY FROM THE SHORE

Hikkaduwa’s diving season runs from November until late April

The village of Hikkaduwa sits just to the north of the historic town of Galle. Its position makes it ideal to visit some of the many interesting and beautiful historic wrecks.

Beginner’s have the amazing chance to practise their shallow water skills in the safe waters of Hikkaduwa Marine Reserve reef. This gives them a great opportunity to experience sea conditions in a contained environment, as well as view the colourful reef fishes and resident turtle population.

Divers here can expect warm seas, with an average temperature of 26C, little in the way of currents and good visibility. Our rock formation sites vary from the unearthly, massive boulder floors of Goda Gala to the stunning pinnacle of Kirala Gala.

We have some excellent sites for spotting nudibranchs, morays, barracuda and rays. Large pelagic species are occasional treats, with passing whale sharks, mantas and sometimes a glimpse of dolphins or whales from the dive boat.