Scuba Diving in Nilaveli
About This Activity
Nilaveli, a tranquil beach town on Sri Lanka's northeast coast, has become one of the country's most sought-after scuba diving destinations. Located just 16 km from Trincomalee in the Eastern Province, Nilaveli boasts calm turquoise waters, rich marine biodiversity, and access to one of Sri Lanka's top marine parks—Pigeon Island National Park.
Scuba diving in Nilaveli is particularly popular between April and October, when sea conditions are calm and underwater visibility is excellent. During this time, divers can easily explore shallow coral gardens, vibrant reef systems, and even shipwrecks. The area is beginner-friendly, but also rewarding for experienced divers who want relaxed dives with stunning scenery.
The star attraction is Pigeon Island, just a short boat ride from Nilaveli Beach. This marine sanctuary is home to blacktip reef sharks, green turtles, clownfish, and over 100 species of coral. Its shallow reef slopes and high visibility make it perfect for Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) sessions and snorkelers. Certified divers can enjoy the island's multiple dive sites, including drift dives and deeper coral beds.
Another popular dive site near Nilaveli is the Irakkandai Shipwreck, a 90-meter iron ship lying at 10–12 meters deep. Now colonised by corals and marine life, it offers a unique opportunity for wreck and reef lovers.
Several PADI-certified dive centres operate in Nilaveli, offering everything from beginner sessions to full Open Water Diver and Advanced Open Water courses. Most dive shops maintain small group sizes—typically 3–5 divers per instructor—for safety and personalized instruction. Costs for fun dives start from $50 USD, while beginner DSD packages are around $70–75 USD, and certification courses range between $350 and $400 USD.
In addition to diving, Nilaveli offers visitors soft, sandy beaches, laid-back beachfront cafes, and nearby cultural sites in Trincomalee. Whether you're looking to complete your first dive or log a few relaxing reef dives, scuba diving in Nilaveli provides a peaceful and breathtaking underwater experience, far from the hustle and bustle of more touristy areas.
Best time to Visit
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This is at its finest from April to October, providing an ideal setting for unforgettable experiences during these pleasant months.
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Year's busiest month is December
Required Time for Explore this Activity
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Visitors typically require around 4 hour to explore and enjoy its key highlights.
Activity Cost
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Cost Per Person: 50 USD to 100 USD