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Sea Trials, New Friends and a Name for the Journey There is a particular moment when an old boat stops being a project and starts becoming a boat again. I think I reached that point recently with my 2012 MacGregor 26M. After years of storage, repairs, electrical work, rigging, batteries, paperwork, inspections and more than a few occasions when I wondered what on earth I had gotten myself into, the boat is now spending almost every day on the water at Bolgoda Lake. And she is

Lightning Risks During Tropical Monsoon Storms Tropical waters around Sri Lanka can experience intense electrical storms, particularly during monsoon transitions and fast-moving evening squalls. While direct lightning strikes on yachts are relatively uncommon, they do occur and can cause severe damage to electronics, rigging systems, batteries, navigation equipment, and onboard communications — even when a vessel is safely anchored or tied up in a marina. Modern sailboats wit

Sri Lanka is becoming an increasingly popular stop for international cruising yachts crossing the Indian Ocean. However, all foreign pleasure craft must follow strict arrival and clearance procedures coordinated through authorized local shipping agents. Arriving at the Lotus Tower Colombo Sri Lanka International pleasure craft, cruising yachts, and circumnavigating sailboats are not permitted to self-clear into Sri Lanka. All foreign vessels must coordinate arrival through a

Sri Lanka is one of the few islands in the world shaped almost entirely by two seasonal monsoons. These weather systems control rainfall, sea conditions, surfing seasons, fishing activity, diving visibility, and even the best times for coastal travel. Because the island sits in the Indian Ocean close to the equator, weather can change dramatically between the west and east coasts at the same time of year. Understanding the monsoon seasons helps travelers plan safer and more e

After years of traveling across North America, from the lakes and vast forests of Canada to the volcanic landscapes of Hawaii, I found myself returning to Sri Lanka with a striking realization. The land in much of North America feels geologically young. The mountains, lakes, and forests seem freshly carved, as if the last Ice Age had only just retreated. Wildlife is often sparse, and the ecosystems feel like they are still in the process of settling. Sri Lanka, by contrast, f

From jungle giants to the largest animals ever to live on Earth, Sri Lanka offers one of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences anywhere in the world. Sri Lanka may be one of the very few places on Earth where, with a bit of luck and planning, a traveler can see wild elephants and blue whales in the same day — without needing a helicopter expedition into remote wilderness or scour the coastline for glimpse of a Blue Whale. For those wanting an unforgettable aerial persp

First Solo Run in Heavy Rain on Bolgoda Lake Today I headed out to the boat alone around 2:00 pm at the dock on Bolgoda Lake. The boat was ready and waiting. I connected the negative battery terminal, lowered the outboard, and the 40HP Yamaha started immediately without hesitation. After a brief idle to warm up, I put on my life jacket, stepped onto the dock, and released the bow and stern lines. The lake was calm at first — almost still — with no wind. A heavy monsoonal patt

After 2 months of preparation, troubleshooting, rigging, and anticipation, May 7th 2026 finally marked the first successful launch and sea trials of our pristine MacGregor 26M at the beautiful Bolgoda Lake from the docks of the Ceylon Motor Yacht Club. Towering over the marina with its 30-foot mast, the boat immediately drew attention from members and visitors alike. Its bright blue hull, crisp white accents, and gleaming white sails made it hard to miss among the other wat

Major ports Colombo Port & Port City - Galle Harbor - Trincomalee Harbor Marina contact info Harbor entry notes Customs/immigration Anchorages protection from swell holding quality nearby fuel/water dinghy landing safety notes best season Bolgoda Lake Mirissa Galle Trincomalee Passikudah Sri Lanka Navy / Coast Guard emergency numbers official websites radio/contact procedures if known safety guidance Emergency / Marine Services boat repair fiberglass work mechanics fuel do

Sri Lanka offers some of the most scenic coastal sailing routes in the Indian Ocean, but local conditions can change quickly depending on monsoon season, currents, fishing traffic, and visibility. Good passage planning and updated weather information are essential. Key considerations Monsoon seasons affect sea state and wind direction Fishing boats and nets are common near shore Night navigation requires caution Some harbors have shifting sandbars and traffic Visibility can c

Sri Lanka’s coastline offers far more than beautiful beaches. The island’s coastal waters support rich marine life, traditional fishing communities, surfing destinations, coral ecosystems, and centuries-old maritime culture. Whether arriving by yacht, exploring by kayak, diving offshore reefs, or simply walking along the shoreline, visitors quickly discover that Sri Lanka’s coastal life is deeply connected to the sea. whales dolphins sea turtles reef fish Crocodiles, monitor