HOW TO BE A RESPONSIBLE OCEAN EXPLORER

Sri Lanka is home to some incredible marine life, and few creatures capture the hearts of ocean lovers quite like sea turtles. Whether you’re diving or snorkeling, encountering these graceful reptiles is a magical experience; but it’s also a privilege that comes with responsibility.

Many visitors to Hikkaduwa’s famous Turtle Beach witness people feeding turtles despite large signs advising against it. While it may seem harmless, this practice disrupts natural behaviors and is not something the diving community support. Our center encourages responsible interactions with marine life.

Here’s what you need to know to ensure your turtle encounter is both respectful and unforgettable.

The Golden Rules of Turtle Encounters

If you find yourself face-to-face with a sea turtle in Sri Lanka’s waters, remember these key guidelines:

Look, but don’t touch – Turtles may seem friendly, but touching them can cause stress and damage their sensitive skin. Imagine a stranger suddenly patting your head; it’s not a pleasant experience.
Avoid feeding them – Feeding turtles, especially in areas like Turtle Beach, disrupts their natural diet and can make them dependent on humans. It also alters their behavior and affects the local ecosystem.
Give them space – Always maintain a respectful distance of at least a few meters. If a turtle swims toward you, remain still and let it move on its own terms.
Never attempt to ride a turtle – While it may sound absurd, some people actually try to do this. Turtles are not meant to be touched or ridden, and such behavior can cause them harm.
Move calmly – Quick movements and loud noises can startle turtles. If you want to observe them peacefully, keep your actions slow and deliberate.

Busting Common Turtle Myths

“Turtles like being touched.”

This is a common misconception. Just because a turtle doesn’t immediately swim away doesn’t mean it enjoys being petted. It may simply be tolerating the interaction or feeling stressed.

“Feeding them helps them survive.”

Turtles have thrived in the ocean for millions of years without human assistance. When they become accustomed to being fed, they stop foraging naturally, which can lead to malnutrition. Leftover food also attracts other marine life, disrupting the balance of the ecosystem.

“Turtles always swim slowly.”

While turtles are often seen gliding gracefully through the water, they are capable of surprising bursts of speed when they feel threatened. If a turtle suddenly dashes away, it may be a sign that it is stressed by human presence.

General Snorkeling & Diving Etiquette

Turtles are just one of many incredible marine species in Sri Lanka, and it’s important to practice responsible behavior whenever you enter the ocean:

Avoid chasing or cornering marine animals.
Be mindful of your fins, accidental kicks can damage coral reefs.
Never remove anything from the ocean, except for trash.
Use reef-safe sunscreen to prevent harmful chemicals from polluting the water.
Follow local guidelines and respect your dive or snorkel guide’s instructions.

Organizations like PADI emphasize responsible marine interactions, ensuring that marine life, including turtles, remains undisturbed for future generations to enjoy.

Be Informed, Be Responsible

Turtles have been around for millions of years, but their future depends on how we treat them today. By following these simple guidelines, you can help protect them while still enjoying an incredible experience in Sri Lanka’s waters.

If you want to dive deeper into marine conservation and responsible snorkeling and diving, keep exploring, stay informed, and always respect the ocean.