Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Minister Mahinda Amaraweera has said that operators should reduce the fee foreigners are charged for whale-watching, as it was too steep.

The Minister said he had received complaints, and warned that too high prices could be a deterrent to many and harm Sri Lanka’s reputation as a tourist-friendly country.

The Mirissa, Kalpitiya and Kapparatota coastlines are frequently inhabited by both whales and dolphins and tour operators and resort owners charge tourists over Rs. 6, 000 a person to be taken by boats close enough to view the mammals.  

The Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Minister asked that prices are reduced to at least Rs. 4,000 so that tourists do not feel they are being swindled.

‘Foreigners don’t have to be entitled to any special privileges,’ the Minister quipped.