From the bustling ports of Colombo, you’ll find a refreshingly diverse selection of water excursions. The small group city tours with port pickup are perfect for travelers short on time, while the Galle boat safaris showcase Sri Lanka’s stunning coastline. I’m especially fond of the private sailing trips – they offer that intimate connection with the Indian Ocean you just can’t get any other way.
The whale watching cruises are a real highlight, particularly during migration season when blue whales frequent these waters. For families and thrill-seekers, the banana boat rides and speed boat adventures deliver pure fun without breaking the bank.
Most tours cater well to various mobility needs, and the generous cancellation policies make booking worry-free. Let’s explore the standout water tours in Colombo.
Key Points
- The Sunset Sailing Cruise offers a scenic 2-hour private tour with up to 6 people, providing stunning views of Colombo’s city skyline.
- The Sunset Sailing Cruise departs at 3:00 PM from the Sail Lanka Charter pontoon, accommodating up to 25 participants at €80.31 per person, including refreshments.
- The Birdwatching Tour provides a boat ride through the Muthurajawela Marsh, priced from $45 per person, allowing visitors to observe the diverse local avifauna.
- The Negombo Highlights tour is a 12-hour excursion that includes a traditional catamaran ride, priced at $54 per person, showcasing the region’s natural beauty.
- The Sunset Sailing tour is a 1-hour experience in the Port City, offering breathtaking sunset views over the Indian Ocean.
Colombo City Tour (Small Group With Pickup From Cruise Ship)
The Colombo City Tour (Small Group With Pickup From Cruise Ship) offers travelers an immersive introduction to the historic and cultural highlights of Sri Lanka’s capital.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, the small-group experience provides personalized attention from the guide, who shares insights into the city’s landmarks.
The tour hits key sights like the Seema Malaka Buddhist temple, Old Parliament, and vibrant Pettah markets.
Travelers enjoy the convenience of port pickup and drop-off, as well as included entrance fees to the National Museum.
While moderate fitness is required, the tour accommodates strollers and infant lap-sitters.
With 92% recommendation from past guests, this tour is a great option for cruise ship visitors to explore Colombo.
Read our full review: Colombo City Tour (Small Group With Pickup From Cruise Ship) Review
Book now: Check availability
Banana Boat Ride in Port City
Adventurous travelers can book a thrilling Banana Boat Ride in Sri Lanka’s bustling Port City. The 15-minute activity costs $21.26 per person and is suitable for all ages.
Riders are towed behind a speedboat on an inflatable tube, with boat drivers adjusting the speed to accommodate thrill-seekers or those preferring a calmer ride. The experience includes safety gear and a briefing, but it’s not suitable for pregnant women.
Participants must bring a change of clothes, as jewelry and littering aren’t allowed.
The Port City is a significant maritime location with well-developed ports for trade, commerce, and transportation, making it an ideal setting for this exciting water activity.
Read our full review: Banana Boat Ride in Port City Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Galle Day Tour With Boat Safari & Tea Factory Visit – All Inclusive
Departing from Colombo, this private day tour whisks travelers to the historic city of Galle, where they’ll embark on a captivating boat safari and visit a renowned tea factory.
Priced from $135 per person, the tour includes all entry fees, activity costs, private transportation, and lunch.
Pickup and drop-off are provided from various locations across the region. The tour is wheelchair accessible and caters to a minimum of two people.
With a 5.0 rating based on 3 reviews, this comprehensive package offers an excellent opportunity to explore Galle’s natural and cultural wonders.
Guests can enjoy free cancellation or reschedule up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Private Galle Day Tour With Boat Safari & Tea Factory Visit – All Inclusive Review
Book now: Check availability
All Inclusive Private Sailing Day Experience in Colombo
Embark on an all-inclusive private sailing adventure in Colombo, where you’ll spend a day immersed in the city’s coastal splendor.
This 10-hour experience, limited to just 10 participants, features an English-speaking host and is wheelchair accessible. Priced at €804.97 per person, the tour includes free pickup, breakfast, lunch, and drinks.
Enjoy dolphin watching, water sports, and stunning views of the sunrise and Colombo City. Additional swim gear and food/drinks are available for purchase.
However, the experience isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with pre-existing medical conditions. With a flexible cancellation policy, this private sailing day is an exceptional way to explore Colombo’s coastal offerings.
Read our full review: All Inclusive Private Sailing Day Experience in Colombo Review
Book now: Check availability
Giant Loop Cruise Mirissa
Travelers often embark on the Giant Loop Cruise Mirissa, a premier whale watching and scenic cruising experience in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Offering a private tour, the cruise provides a 5-star rating based on 3 reviews. The all-inclusive package includes coffee, tea, breakfast, private transfers, an English-speaking guide, and access to whale watching and a luxury yacht cruise.
Pickup is available from hotels in Colombo, Galle, and Mirissa, with a start time of 5:00 AM. The cruise is wheelchair accessible and allows service animals.
Bookings can be made with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the lowest price is guaranteed.
Read our full review: Giant Loop Cruise Mirissa Review
Book now: Check availability
West Coast Beach, River Mangroves Lagoon, Wildlife Boat Tour
This comprehensive 8-hour tour takes guests on a captivating journey along Sri Lanka’s West Coast, exploring the Madu River’s mangrove lagoons and the diverse wildlife that thrives within.
Priced from $90 per person, the tour is limited to 10 participants and is available in English and German.
Highlights include a slow cruise through the mangroves, spotting birds and crocodiles, and guided walks on Bentota Beach and a spice/herbal garden.
The Madu Ganga, a RAMSAR wetland and national sanctuary, is a crucial ecosystem that supports various aquatic species.
Refreshments and transportation via modern speedboats are included, though the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those carrying large bags.
Read our full review: West Coast Beach, River Mangroves Lagoon, Wildlife Boat Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Cruise Excursions Colombo Sri Lanka Half Day Tour Excursion Colombo Sri Lanka
Guests craving a more urban adventure can opt for the Colombo Sri Lanka Half Day Tour Excursion. This private tour provides a rundown of the city, with an air-conditioned vehicle and knowledgeable guide.
At $56.54 per person, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at the Colombo Port, bottled water, and comprehensive passenger insurance. Guests can explore Colombo’s highlights, from its diverse architecture to its vibrant street life, with the convenience of a private tour.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a 5.0-star rating, this excursion offers a hassle-free way to discover the charms of Colombo.
Read our full review: Cruise Excursions Colombo Sri Lanka Half Day Tour Excursion Colombo Sri Lanka Review
Book now: Check availability
A Sunset Cruise at Colombo Port City
For those seeking a tranquil way to experience Colombo’s stunning cityscape, a sunset cruise along the Port City offers an unparalleled perspective.
This private 2-hour tour accommodates up to 6 people and is led by an English-speaking US captain. As the sun dips below the horizon, enjoy scenic views of the city’s illuminated skyline and the unique vantage point of the Colombo Harbor.
The cruise includes bottled water, beer, and all necessary safety equipment. With a flexible cancellation policy and easy booking options, this sunset excursion is a must-do for visitors looking to end their day in Colombo on a high note.
Read our full review: A Sunset Cruise at Colombo Port City Review
Book now: Check availability
Birdwatching Boat Ride in Muthurajawela Marsh
Why not embark on a captivating birdwatching boat ride through the serene Muthurajawela Marsh? Priced from $45 per person, this 5-star rated tour offers a chance to spot diverse avian species in their natural habitat.
Led by an English-speaking naturalist, the experience includes a boat ride, water, and hotel transfers. The tour departs at 6:30 AM and isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate.
Cancellation and rescheduling are free up to 24 hours prior. Whether you’re a birdwatcher or nature enthusiast, this tour provides an immersive exploration of Colombo’s stunning wetlands.
Read our full review: Birdwatching Boat Ride in Muthurajawela Marsh Review
Book now: Check availability
Negombo City Highlights With Traditional Catamaran Ride
Explore the highlights of Negombo, a vibrant coastal city near Colombo, on a captivating tour that includes a traditional catamaran ride.
This 12-hour excursion departs from Colombo or Negombo, allowing you to discover Negombo’s top attractions.
Cruise along the Negombo lagoon on a catamaran, a classic local boat, and admire the scenic waterways and surrounding mangroves.
Visit historical landmarks, bustling markets, and beautiful beaches.
The tour is priced at $54 per person and includes pickup and drop-off service.
With a duration of 12 hours, it’s an excellent way to learn about the charming coastal culture of Negombo.
Read our full review: Negombo City Highlights With Traditional Catamaran Ride Review
Book now: Check availability
Sunset Sailing in Port City
Sailing into the golden sunset aboard a graceful catamaran is a captivating experience offered in Port City.
This 1-hour sunset sailing tour is priced from $62.16 per person and can accommodate up to 2 participants. Conducted in both Singhalese and English, the tour allows you to enjoy stunning views of the sunset over the Indian Ocean.
The experienced captain positions the boat for optimal sunset viewing, making it an ideal activity for romantic moments or gathering with friends and family.
The tour includes safety gear and a briefing, but isn’t suitable for pregnant women. Comfortable clothing is recommended for this sailing experience.
Read our full review: Sunset Sailing in Port City Review
Book now: Check availability
7 Days Absolute Fishing & Wildlife Safari by Boat
Embarking on a comprehensive 7-day fishing and wildlife adventure, the Days Absolute Fishing & Wildlife Safari by Boat promises an immersive exploration of Colombo’s diverse natural wonders.
Priced at €1,306.89 per person, this small-group tour (limited to 7 participants) offers a range of activities, including lagoon fishing, boat and jeep safaris, deep-sea fishing, whale watching, and lake fishing.
Highlights include visits to Kalpitiya, Negombo, Mirissa, and Yala National Park, where travelers can encounter a wealth of marine and terrestrial wildlife.
With comfortable transportation, English-speaking guides, and flexible booking options, this safari provides an exceptional opportunity to discover the natural riches of the region.
Read our full review: 7 Days Absolute Fishing & Wildlife Safari by Boat Review
Book now: Check availability
Sunset Sailing Cruise In Colombo Port City
Travelers can typically board the sunset sailing cruise in Colombo Port City at 3:00 PM.
The cruise accommodates up to 25 people and departs from the Sail Lanka Charter pontoon in Port City Colombo. Priced at €80.31 per person, the experience includes refreshments like snacks, coffee/tea, and a welcome drink.
The cruise is wheelchair and stroller-accessible, but not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.
Advance booking is required, and participants must provide their vehicle details for a gate pass. The cruise returns to the original meeting point, and travelers can expect to receive their booking confirmation within 48 hours, subject to availability.
Cancellations and rescheduling are free up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Sunset Sailing Cruise In Colombo Port City Review
Book now: Check availability
Speed Boat Ride in Port City
The speed boat ride in Port City offers a thrilling 15-minute excursion on the water, accommodating up to 4 participants at a time.
Priced at ₹4,432 per person, this activity allows visitors to explore and relax in the ocean, with the possibility of witnessing marine life.
The experience includes the boat ride, safety gear, training, and guidance.
It’s not suitable for pregnant women, and participants are advised to bring a change of clothes.
Booking is easy, with no upfront payment required and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The activity is available in English and Singhalese, making it accessible to a wider audience.
Read our full review: Speed Boat Ride in Port City Review
Book now: Check availability
Whale Watching Cruise With Kingfisher Tours Srilanka
The Whale Watching Cruise offered by Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka provides an opportunity to spot majestic marine mammals in their natural habitat.
Priced from $45 per person, the private tour departs from Colombo and includes pickup, transportation, and entrance fees. Travelers can expect to see whales and other wildlife during the cruise.
However, the tour has received mixed reviews, with customers citing issues with the cancellation policy and difficulty changing dates.
While the inclusions, such as breakfast and lunch, are appealing, potential participants should be aware of the lower overall rating of 2.5 out of 5 based on 2 reviews on TripAdvisor.
Read our full review: Whale Watching Cruise With Kingfisher Tours Srilanka Review
Book now: Check availability
From Colombo: Hikkaduwa Village Tour With Boat Ride & BBQ
Departing from Colombo, this immersive tour transports visitors to the charming Hikkaduwa village, offering a comprehensive exploration of the region’s vibrant local culture and natural wonders.
Highlights include a boat ride through the serene Hikkaduwa lagoon, a visit to a family-run coir industry, and a tour of the Mask Museum.
Travelers can also witness gem extraction at a moonstone mine, stroll pristine beaches, and indulge in a private barbecue dinner featuring fresh seafood.
With round-trip transportation from Colombo, this tour provides a well-rounded experience showcasing the best of Hikkaduwa.
Priced at $155 per person, it’s a value-packed adventure not to be missed.
Read our full review: From Colombo: Hikkaduwa Village Tour With Boat Ride & BBQ Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Transfer From Colombo Cruise Port to Sri Lanka Colombo Airport (Cmb)
For travelers departing Colombo Cruise Port and needing efficient transportation to Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), a private transfer is an excellent option.
The transfer includes all taxes, VAT, parking/airport tolls, meet and greet service, tips, and gratuities. Passengers are allowed one standard suitcase per person.
The driver will wait 60 minutes after the effective landing time, and travelers should contact assistance if the driver isn’t found. Infants and children require baby/child seats, and the transfer is stroller accessible but not wheelchair accessible.
However, past customer reviews indicate communication issues and problems with driver availability and reservation confirmation.
Read our full review: Private Transfer From Colombo Cruise Port to Sri Lanka Colombo Airport (Cmb) Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
Colombo offers a variety of boat tours and cruises that cater to different interests. From city tours and banana boat rides to whale watching and day trips, there’s something for all. Travelers can explore the city’s sights, visit nearby destinations, and enjoy the scenic waterways. Whether it’s a group tour or a private experience, these activities provide a unique way to experience Colombo and its surroundings.