FAQ – Pearl Divers Sri Lanka
Find answers to the most common questions about scuba diving, activities, and planning your trip with Pearl Divers in Unawatuna & Trincomalee.
Diving Basics
Do I need to know how to swim to try scuba diving?
Not necessarily. Our Try Diving (Discover Scuba Diving) programme is designed for beginners, even those who are not confident swimmers. You’ll practise in shallow water with close instructor supervision, and life jackets are available for added comfort.
Do I need to be certified to dive?
No. Beginners can join guided experiences like Try Diving or snorkelling without certification. However, if you want to dive independently or go deeper, you’ll need a certification such as PADI Open Water Diver, which we also offer.
How old do you need to be to scuba dive in Sri Lanka?
The minimum age for scuba diving is usually 10 years old for beginner programmes like Discover Scuba Diving. Children 8+ can try special programmes such as PADI Bubblemaker in a pool or shallow water.
Is scuba diving safe?
Yes. At Pearl Divers, safety is our top priority. We are a PADI 5-Star Dive Centre with trained instructors, small groups, and modern equipment. We also carry emergency oxygen and first aid kits on all trips.
What equipment do you provide?
We provide all necessary scuba gear, including mask, fins, snorkel, wetsuit, BCD, regulator, tanks, and weights. For activities like snorkelling, life jackets and fins are included.
Diving in Sri Lanka (Season & Marine Life)
When is the best time to dive in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka has two diving seasons thanks to the monsoons:
- South Coast (Unawatuna): October – April
- East Coast (Trincomalee): May – October
This means you can dive in Sri Lanka all year round, simply by choosing the right coast.
What marine life can I see while diving?
Sri Lanka’s reefs are full of life: turtles, reef fish, moray eels, rays, Napoleon wrasse, and reef sharks are common. In Trincomalee, you may also encounter dolphins and whales in season. Every dive offers something new.
Is Sri Lanka good for wreck diving?
Yes. Sri Lanka is home to fascinating wrecks such as the SS Rangoon (Unawatuna) and the Navy Museum site (Trincomalee). These dives combine history with thriving marine ecosystems, making them popular with advanced divers.
Which is better for diving — Unawatuna or Trincomalee?
Both are excellent, but at different times of the year:
- Unawatuna (Oct–Apr): Calm south coast seas, wrecks, and colourful reefs.
- Trincomalee (May–Oct): Clear waters, dramatic rock formations, and seasonal whale sightings.
Booking & Travel Logistics
Can non-divers or family members join the boats?
Yes. Non-divers are welcome on many trips. They can snorkel, relax on the boat, or enjoy the views while certified divers explore below.
How do I book a dive or activity with Pearl Divers?
You can book directly through our website, contact us via phone/email, or visit our dive centres in Unawatuna or Trincomalee. We recommend booking in advance during peak season to secure your spot.
Do you offer accommodation packages with diving?
Yes. Pearl Divers guests receive 25% off accommodation at our partner resorts, including Pearl Beachfront Apartment, Green Escape, and Horizon Hilltop in Unawatuna. You can also combine diving with stays at these properties.
How do I get to Unawatuna or Trincomalee from Colombo?
- Unawatuna: About 2 hours by car on the Southern Expressway, or by train to Galle.
- Trincomalee: Around 5–6 hours by road, or a short domestic flight. We can help arrange local transfers if needed.
Safety, Comfort & Eco Practices
What if I feel nervous or anxious underwater?
That’s very common for beginners. Our instructors are trained to guide you at your own pace, starting in shallow water until you feel comfortable. Most people relax and enjoy themselves within minutes.
Do you follow eco-friendly diving practices?
Absolutely. We follow reef-friendly guidelines, avoid damaging corals, and encourage divers to practise good buoyancy. We also run marine conservation programmes like Dive Against Debris to keep our reefs healthy.
What safety measures are in place on boats and during dives?
All boats are equipped with life jackets, emergency oxygen, first aid kits, and communication devices. Our staff are trained in emergency response, and group sizes are kept small for personalised supervision.
Still Have Questions?
If your question isn’t listed here, feel free to reach out. Our team is happy to help you plan the perfect diving or activity experience in Sri Lanka.