The coastal hub of Negombo delivers practical and scenic boat experiences worth every rupee. Airport transfer options provide good value, with one-way trips to Dedduwa Boat House ($39) and Colombo port ($32) offering comfort and views. Daily scenic rides ($33) showcase the town’s maritime charm, while mangrove tours ($31) reveal local wildlife and culture.
Two standout experiences caught our attention: The Negombo Lagoon Safari ($43) impresses with its intimate look at fishing communities and rich bird life, while the Dutch Canal Tour ($240) – though pricey – offers the most comprehensive historical perspective of colonial waterways.
Let’s explore these top-rated water excursions in detail.
Key Points
- Scenic boat rides in Negombo operate daily from 9 AM to 4 PM, offering a maximum of 6 participants with safety gear provided.
- Guided mangrove boat tour departs from Bandaranaike International Airport, priced from $30.68 per person with free cancellation and wheelchair accessibility.
- Negombo Lagoon Boat Safari accommodates up to 15 passengers at $43 per person, including hotel pickup/drop-off, refreshments, and boat charges.
- Dutch Canal Boat Tour offers a 2-hour ride for $240 per person with bottled water included and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
- One-way airport transfer from Colombo to Dedduwa Boat House starts at $39 per person, with private transfer and free cancellation/rescheduling available.
Transfer Between Colombo Airport and Dedduwa Boat House by Jetwing, Bentota
Booking a transfer between Colombo Airport and the Dedduwa Boat House in Bentota can be a convenient option for travelers arriving in Sri Lanka.
Operated by Lakpura LLC, the one-way airport transfer service costs from $39.00 per person, with the price varying based on group size. The private transfer includes all taxes, fees, and excess luggage charges.
While food, drinks, and gratuities are excluded, the service offers free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling up to 24 hours before the experience. Despite not being wheelchair accessible, the transfer is suitable for most travelers and includes infant seats.
Confirmation is provided upon booking, and the option to reserve now and pay later is available.
Read our full review: Transfer Between Colombo Airport and Dedduwa Boat House by Jetwing, Bentota Review
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Private Transfer From Sri Lanka Colombo Airport (Cmb) to Colombo Cruise Port
How convenient it’s to arrange a private transfer from Colombo Airport (CMB) to the Colombo Cruise Port.
This service costs from $32.31 per group (up to 2 people) and includes all taxes, VAT, parking, and airport tolls.
Passengers are allowed one standard suitcase per person, and excess luggage charges apply for oversized or extra bags.
The transfer service meets passengers at the airport and drops them off at the cruise pier or a hotel in the city center.
Infants and children must use provided car seats.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the transfer, and payment can be made later.
The duration varies depending on traffic, but it’s a private service for your group only.
Read our full review: Private Transfer From Sri Lanka Colombo Airport (Cmb) to Colombo Cruise Port Review
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Boat Riding in Negombo
Visitors often embark on scenic boat rides in Negombo, Sri Lanka, to enjoy the coastal beauty of the region.
These boat tours operate daily from 9 AM to 4 PM and aren’t recommended for travelers with back problems, heart conditions, or pregnant women.
The maximum number of participants is 6, and safety gear is provided.
The meeting point and end point are the same in Negombo. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and travelers can reserve their spot and pay later.
The boat riding experience costs from $33 per person, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the activity starts.
Read our full review: Boat Riding in Negombo Review
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Negombo Transit Mangrove Boat Ride Tour From Airport
This guided Negombo Transit Mangrove Boat Ride Tour departs directly from Bandaranaike International Airport, offering travelers a scenic introduction to Sri Lanka’s coastal wetlands.
The private tour is priced from $30.68 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand. Travelers can expect luggage assistance, a meet-and-greet service, an English-speaking driver, and air-conditioned transportation.
The tour is wheelchair-accessible, and infant seats are available. Pickup and drop-off locations are flexible, with an additional surcharge for destinations outside Negombo. Guests should provide their flight details and contact information in advance.
The tour operates daily from 12:00 AM to 11:30 PM, with the duration depending on traffic conditions.
Read our full review: Negombo Transit Mangrove Boat Ride Tour From Airport Review
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Sri Lanka Private 21 Days Tour Include Sightseeing,Wild Life,Cultural,Boat Tour
A 21-day private tour of Sri Lanka offers travelers an immersive exploration of the island’s diverse wonders, from captivating cultural heritage to thrilling wildlife experiences and a serene boat tour.
The tour, which starts in Negombo, includes private accommodation for 20 nights and air-conditioned transportation.
Travelers can enjoy daily breakfast and have the option to add favorite locations.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and infants can sit on laps.
Prices start from $3,700 per person, with a lowest price guarantee and flexible cancellation and rescheduling policies.
Read our full review: Sri Lanka Private 21 Days Tour Include Sightseeing,Wild Life,Cultural,Boat Tour Review
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Negombo Lagoon Boat Safari From Negombo
Negombo Lagoon Boat Safari offers travelers a serene and immersive experience exploring the enchanting waterways of the Negombo Lagoon.
Priced at $43 per person, this tour accommodates up to 15 passengers and includes hotel pickup/drop-off, refreshments, and boat charges.
While not wheelchair-accessible, the safari is suitable for most travelers, except those with back problems, pregnant women, or serious medical conditions.
Confirmation is provided at booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours prior.
Pickup takes place at the hotel lobby, and the operator will reconfirm the time in advance.
Additional charges may apply for different drop-off locations, and providing a WhatsApp contact is recommended for better communication.
Read our full review: Negombo Lagoon Boat Safari From Negombo Review
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Dutch Canal Boat Tour From Negombo
For travelers seeking a unique perspective of Negombo’s historic waterways, the Dutch Canal Boat Tour offers a captivating 2-hour private boat ride along the Hamilton Canal.
Operated by Lakpura LLC, the tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, and a qualified rescue and first aider on the boat.
Priced at $240 per person, the tour provides complimentary bottled water and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Most travelers can participate, though the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
The tour departs at 7 am, and confirmation is received upon booking, with the lowest price guaranteed.
Read our full review: Dutch Canal Boat Tour From Negombo Review
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Common Questions
Is There a Minimum Group Size for the Boat Tours?
The minimum group size for boat tours can vary, but many operators don’t have strict requirements. Some may offer private tours for smaller groups or individual travelers, while others may have a minimum of 2-4 people to run a tour.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?
Yes, you can typically bring your own food and drinks on the boat tours. Most operators allow this as long as you take care to avoid making a mess or disturbing other passengers.
Are the Boats Wheelchair Accessible?
Most boat tours and cruises accommodate passengers with disabilities. Many boats have wheelchair-accessible ramps and spaces to ensure a comfortable experience for all travelers. It’s best to inquire about accessibility when booking to ensure the tour meets your needs.
How Long Do the Boat Tours Typically Last?
Boat tours typically last 1-2 hours, depending on the specific tour. Some offer extended cruises of 3-4 hours. Duration can vary based on the route, sights, and activities included. Visitors should check tour details to select an option that fits their schedule and interests.
What Should I Bring With Me on the Boat Tour?
When going on a boat tour, it’s best to bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, water, snacks, and any necessary medications. Comfortable, breathable clothing and closed-toe shoes are also recommended to ensure a pleasant and enjoyable experience.
The Sum Up
Negombo offers a variety of boat tours and cruises for visitors to enjoy. From transfers between the airport and nearby destinations to leisurely lagoon safaris, there are numerous options to explore the city’s waterways and natural surroundings. Travelers can choose from private transfers, group tours, or independent boat rides, depending on their preferences and budget. Whether seeking a scenic adventure or a convenient transportation solution, Negombo’s boat tours and cruises provide an excellent way to experience the local waterways.