Colombo itself isn't a boating city, but Beira Lake in the centre and the Muthurajawela wetlands just north offer options from a five-dollar paddle to a proper mangrove safari. Best for: nature and birdwatching fans, families, couples.
What to Expect
Difficulty ranges from easy. Group sizes are typically 2-12. Tours available in English, Sinhala.
Our Top Picks
4 hand-picked activities for this trip
Beira Lake Pedal Boat Hire
30 minutes2-4easy
Best for budget travellers and families
- View Seema Malaka shrine from water level
- See Gangaramaya Temple architecture and surroundings
Colombo Harbor Evening Cruise
1.5 hours4-20easy
Best for couples
- Working container port operations and maritime activity
- Colombo Lighthouse and Fort historic architecture
Muthurajawela Wetland Boat Safari
2 hours2-12easy
Best for nature and birdwatching fans
- Purple herons and Indian cormorants nesting in mangrove canopy
- Early morning light for photography and wildlife observation
Negombo Lagoon Fishing Boat Add-on
1 hour2-12easy
Best for day-trippers extending their wetland tour
- Traditional wooden outrigger boats with handmade nets
- Observation of cast-net fishing techniques unchanged for centuries
Booking Advice
Best season December to March is the most comfortable stretch for outdoor boat tours.
More on Colombo
For sights rather than tours, see the things to do in Colombo. The Colombo guide covers where to stay and how to get around.
We arrange all of these for our guests. Tell us which one and when you are in Colombo.