Bentota, a beautiful coastal town in Sri Lanka, is a paradise for scuba divers. The crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean, teeming with marine life, coral reefs, and shipwrecks, create an unforgettable underwater experience.
When to Dive
The best time to dive in Bentota is during the dry season, from November to April. During this time, the visibility of the water is excellent, and the currents are calm.
Dive Sites
Bentota offers a variety of dive sites suitable for both beginners and experienced divers. Here are some of the popular ones:
- Canoe Rock is a submerged rock formation teeming with colorful fish, crustaceans, and coral reefs.
South Reef, located south of Canoe Rock, is known for its rocky underwater terrain and rich marine life. Divers can expect to see schools of fish, moray eels, and octopus.
Hundirangala, a shallow reef with a depth of only 12 meters, is a great spot for beginner divers and night dives. It's home to lionfish, porcupinefish, and a variety of other marine creatures.
What to See
The underwater world of Bentota is a kaleidoscope of colors. Divers can expect to see a variety of fish, including angelfish, butterflyfish, clownfish, surgeonfish, and Moorish idols. Other marine life includes turtles, rays, sharks, and crustaceans like crabs and lobsters. The coral reefs are also a sight to behold, with a variety of hard and soft corals in all shapes and sizes.
Dive Centers
There are many reputable dive centers in Bentota that offer diving courses, certifications, and guided dives. These dive centers will provide you with all the necessary equipment and ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable diving experience. Here are some of the well-rated dive centers:
- Sunshine Dive Center
- Diyakawa Water Sports Centre
- Ceylon Divers Bentota
Safety
Diving is a safe activity when done properly. Always follow the instructions of your dive guide and be aware of your surroundings. Make sure you are properly certified and insured before diving.
Bentota is a great place to experience the beauty of the underwater world. With its clear waters, rich marine life, and variety of dive sites, Bentota is sure to please divers of all levels.