Looking for an escape? Check out Dunk Island! This tiny yet amazing island off the eastern coast of Sri Lanka is a paradise for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and beach lovers. With crystal-clear waters and a seemingly endless stretch of white sand beaches, Dunk Island is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for some temporary peace and quiet.
Surrounded by coral reefs and lined with palm trees, Dunk Island is perfect for swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, and sunbathing. In the evening, relax in one of the island’s many cafes and watch the sun set behind the rainbow-hued horizon.
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History
Dunk Island was first sighted by Europeans in the late 15th century, but it wasn’t until 1952 that it was officially claimed and named by a British crew. At just 2 hectares in size, Dunk Island is one of Sri Lanka’s smallest inhabited islands – but don’t let its size fool you; this little spot has plenty to offer nature enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. Take the time to sample some of Sri Lanka’s best snorkelling, discover a patchwork of ancient coral reefs and sea kraits whose brightly colored scales add a beautiful touch to this idyllic destination.
Dunk Island is also home to many species of endemic birds and reptiles including the famous Sri Lankan Junglefowl (Gallus lafayetti) that still roams its beaches today in search for food.
Climate
Dunk Island enjoys a mild, tropical climate with about 260 days of sunshine per year. The temperatures range from 24°C in the morning to 29°C at night. Average monthly rainfall is around 400 mm and January is usually the wettest month. Getting there
Dunk Island is located off the south-western coast of Sri Lanka, between the towns of Tangalle and Batticaloa. Access to Dunk can be made by private yacht or charter boat from any major island port in Sri Lanka. Clients interested in hiring a speedboat will depart on an exclusive tour either with 3N1 Oceans Ltd or Sealink Private Ventures Ltd., allowing guests 1 ½ hours at sea before touching land in scenic and dramatic semi-circular Surfing Bay.
Culture
The people of Dunk Island are mainly descendants of the Portuguese and Dutch colonizers who first arrived in Sri Lanka in the 16th century. Today, they enjoy a traditional lifestyle with an emphasis on fishing and agriculture. Visitors are also welcome to watch the daily life of islanders and participate in many cultural activities including morning rosary which wards off any evil spirits trying to enter Dunk Island’s waters during the heat of day. Information about Festerday
Dunk Island has been declared a “Festival Destination” by Seychelles International Tourism Board, giving it special designation as one of Sri Lanka’s many must see locations for group travellers.
Politics
Dunk Island is part of the Northern Province. The current provincial council Member from Dunk constituency is A. P. Muralitharan, who was also elected to Parliament in March 2010 as a United National Party (UNP) candidate from the Batticaloa district. He had earlier served as minister of fisheries and agriculture, a post he was removed from following his opposition to the end the Sri Lankan civil war.
Dunk Island is also known locally as “Dunk – Kadaikyku” which means “Dunk Island – the Sleeping Giant”. This is because Dunk Island was believed to have been turned into an island by Lord Buddha during his lifetime. He subsequently led a giant elephant to submerge it under water so that no one would ever be able to find it again and encumber its shipping routes. An alternative legend states that the entire area surrounding Dunk was simply underwater before, since when Native American sailors discovered Banda Asiatica.
Government services
There is no government presence on Dunk Island. Educational services are provided by a local church and the health care needs of islanders are met by a clinic operated jointly by the medical sector and the United Nations Development Programme. There is however, an airstrip which provides limited access to mainland Seychelles for emergency evacuations. The nearest medical facility is located in Mahé, approximately 150 kilometres away from Dunk Island.
Tourism
Dunk Island is one of Sri Lanka’s many must see locations for group travellers. The island is noted for its crystal clear waters, lush vegetation and unspoiled beaches. Activities available on the island include snorkelling, diving and kayaking. There are also a number of restaurants serving local cuisine as well as international favourites.
Dunk Island can be reached by ferry from Mahé or PrasLINX Seychelles Airport . As of December 2017, this is the most cost effective option. From Mahé there are at least six ferries per week from March to November and three a week during June-August. The island can also be reached by hire car or boat taxi from Seychelles International Airport using one of many water taxis running around all mornings and evenings.
Transport
There is no regular passenger transport to Dunk Island. It can only be reached by ferry or air. The main ferry from PrasLINX Airport to Mahé Harbour takes 25 minutes and when it’s operating, the return journey is even quicker at about 15 minutes. When you arrive in Mahé , the ferry takes another 15 minutes to Dunk Island .
The Flying Boat Ferry from PrasLINX Airport is a high speed route, taking about 10-15 minutes to reach Seychelles International Airport. It does have a stopover at Mahé along with one more stopping point before reaching Dunk Island – Beaver Rock Marine National Park.
Cuisine
Local cuisine on Dunk Island has a variety of seafood dishes as well as curry and chicken. There are also a number of Western restaurants including the award winning Sunset Beach Bar & Grill which offers both international and local favourites. The island can be explored in an hour or so by foot, giving you plenty of time to enjoy some fresh air and delicious food at one of the many stops on your way!
Wildlife
Dunk Island is a haven for wildlife including elephants, hippopotamuses and flamingos. Adventurers can explore the island on horseback, by boat or even on foot. There are also several conservation projects underway that hope to protect Dunk Island’s endangered flora and fauna. The island is an important nesting site for sea birds and its diverse ecosystem maintains biodiversity on the whole of Mahé Island.
Conclusion
Dunk Island, also known as Qeshm Islands, is a group of islands situated in the Strait of Hormuz, south of Iran. The islands are a popular destination for charters as they offer beautiful landscapes as well as excellent watersports.
FAQ
What Is The Ferry Schedule?
The Flying Boat Ferry leaves PrasLINX Airport at 09:00 every day except for national holidays. The trip takes about 10-15 minutes and arrivals in Mahé are around 15 minutes after departing Dunk Island.
What Is The Best Season To Visit?
June and September are generally the warmest months for overseas visitors. There can be some changes in climate depending on your location during winter so it’s difficult to give a specific advice. Generally March through June is ideal. Bring necessary clothing such as a sweater or jacket if you’re planning on visiting over night, especially when temperatures fall below 25 degrees Celsius at any time of year!
Where Should I Book A Private Boat?
We recommend you get in touch directly with Dunk Island Charters or Marine Adventures so that they can arrange the best available trip. Booking early is recommended however, we have all types of accommodation on offer to suit everyone’s needs. Please contact us below for more information and any queries regarding booking your travels!
How Much Should I Tip?
There are no rules specific to tipping but it will be appreciated if you do so . Although the price of your ticket will not specifically include tips, it is extremely common to tip a little extra on arrival and departure. You can also get additional staff by tipping them more!
What Is The Wake Height For A Private Boat?
The wake of your Dunk Island Charters or Marine Adventures Private Boat will typically be 0.9m (29″). We have several ways to keep your children entertained such as seas, water sculptures and inflatable games. There’s also an option to take them snorkelling which makes it more exciting!
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