Sri Lanka Cruises

Unravel the Wonders of Sri Lanka on a Cruise

Sri Lanka, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” is a cruise destination that promises vibrant landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a rich cultural tapestry. With its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and ancient heritage sites, visiting Sri Lanka by cruise opens up a world of delightful experiences. Did you know that Sri Lanka is home to eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Sacred City of Kandy and the historic town of Galle? A cruise allows you to explore its iconic highlights while relaxing comfortably at sea!

Explore the Top Harbours of Sri Lanka

Here are five harbours in Sri Lanka that will offer you unforgettable experiences during your cruise:

Popular Ports Before or After Your Sri Lanka Cruise

Several key ports are typically included in Sri Lankan cruises, offering additional experiences to enrich your journey:

The Ideal Times to Cruise to Sri Lanka

The best time to visit Sri Lanka often varies based on the specific regions you’re interested in exploring. Generally, the ideal period for cruising is from December to March when temperatures range from 24°C to 30°C, making it pleasant for outdoor adventures. The shoulder months of April to June offer slightly warmer temperatures but less humidity, making it a good alternative if you prefer to avoid the peak tourist seasons. Conversely, the monsoon season, from May to September, may bring heavy rains—so it’s best to avoid this time if you prefer drier conditions.

Cruising Costs Overview for Sri Lanka

Curious about the prices for cruises to Sri Lanka? A typical 1-week cruise generally costs between $1,500 and $3,500 for standard options and $4,500 to $8,000 for luxury experiences. For longer cruises lasting 2 weeks, prices can range from $2,500 to $6,000 for standard packages and upwards of $9,000 for luxury options. Generally, you’ll find that the cheapest times for cruising are from April to early June and mid-September to early October. Dining in the region tends to cost around $20 to $50 for a meal, while drinks can average about $8 to $12 each.

Major Cruise Lines to Sri Lanka

• Princess Cruises
  With a fleet of 17 ships, Princess offers two vessels visiting Sri Lanka, including Crown Princess and Coral Princess. Departures typically occur from domestic ports like Sydney and Brisbane, as well as from international ports such as Singapore and Auckland. Known for its variety of onboard activities and exceptional dining experiences, Princess Cruises promises fun for all ages while emphasizing cultural immersion at every destination.
• Cunard
  Cunard operates a fleet of 4 and offers itineraries to Sri Lanka with Queen Anne and Queen Mary 2. Departures most often take place from Sydney or international ports like Southampton and Cape Town. Renowned for its elegance and sophisticated cruising experience, Cunard is ideal for travelers seeking luxury and classy onboard entertainment.
• Celebrity Cruises
  With a fleet of 16 ships, Celebrity offers itineraries to Sri Lanka with Celebrity Millennium departing from Singapore or Mumbai. Celebrity Cruises is celebrated for its contemporary design and excellent dining options, making it popular among cruisers who appreciate a high-quality dining experience alongside sleek, modern amenities.
• Holland America Line
  With a fleet of 11, Holland America features two ships, Zuiderdam and Volendam, that sail to Sri Lanka. These cruises primarily depart from Sydney or international ports including Singapore and Fort Lauderdale. Known for its immersive destination experiences and upscale ambiance, Holland America provides a relaxed cruising environment focused on local culture and heritage.
• Norwegian Cruise Line
  Operating a fleet of 20 ships, Norwegian offers two vessels, Norwegian Dawn and Norwegian Sky, that visit Sri Lanka. Departures most often occur from Port Louis or Singapore. Renowned for its freestyle cruising concept, Norwegian allows guests maximum flexibility in dining, activities, and entertainment options, ensuring an enjoyable cruise experience for everyone.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Oceania Cruises
  The roughly 8 ships in Oceania’s fleet feature 5 sailing to Sri Lanka, such as Vista and Sirena. Departures generally occur from Singapore and Miami. Oceania is known for its superb culinary offerings and destination-rich itineraries, allowing guests to savour local flavours while experiencing unique cultural excursions.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
  Regent has a fleet of 6 ships, with 4 offering itineraries to Sri Lanka—particularly Seven Seas Navigator and Seven Seas Voyager. Cruises typically sail from Bangkok (Klong Toey) or Miami. Regent is famous for its all-inclusive luxury experience where everything is taken care of, providing cruise enthusiasts with the utmost in comfort and premium service.
• Silversea
  Silversea operates a fleet of 13 ships, with two, Silver Dawn and Silver Whisper, sailing to Sri Lanka. Departures generally occur from Brisbane or Perth and international ports such as Singapore and Mumbai. Silversea offers an ultra-luxurious experience, focusing on intimate service and exclusive excursions tailored to enhance the guest experience.
• Azamara Cruises
  With 4 ships, all of which visit Sri Lanka, Azamara’s fleet includes Azamara Onward and Azamara Pursuit. Departures most often take place from Port Louis or Singapore. Azamara is recognised for its destination-focused itineraries that allow cruisers to explore deeper into local cultures while enjoying longer stays at each port.
• Ponant
  Ponant has a fleet of 11 ships, with Le Laperouse offering routes to Sri Lanka. Departures are often from Colombo or Mumbai. Ponant is known for its elegant yachts and unique expedition-style cruising, blending adventure with refined experiences—perfect for those looking to explore off-the-beaten-path locations.

Alternative Regions to Consider for Your Cruise

If Sri Lanka has captured your interest, consider these alternative regions for your next cruise adventure:

• Asia: Offering a rich tapestry of culture, stunning landscapes, and a variety of cuisines, Asia beckons travellers with destinations like Thailand and Malaysia that promise unique experiences and adventures.
• Maldives: The Maldives is recognised for its white sandy beaches and vibrant coral reefs, ideal for sun-seekers and snorkel enthusiasts alike. The tranquil island setting creates the perfect escape for relaxation.
• Indian Ocean: For those seeking adventure, the Indian Ocean encompasses diverse islands, such as Mauritius and Seychelles, where marine life flourishes and stunning beaches beckon relaxation.
• Bali: Known for its serene landscapes and vibrant culture, Bali offers the perfect getaway to relax and explore ancient temples, lush terraced rice paddies, and art of local craftsmanship.
• Caribbean: For sun-soaked beaches and tropical vibes, the Caribbean promises lively island culture and myriad activities—including water sports, hiking, and delicious local cuisine!

A cruise to Sri Lanka offers unparalleled experiences blending stunning landscapes with rich culture. Book your unforgettable journey with CruiseAway today and explore the beauty of this remarkable island!