Sri Lanka is a paradise for backpackers. From cozy cafes to cool parties to gorgeous beaches and wonderful people – there is something for everyone here. Divers also get their money’s worth, because the underwater world around the island has a lot to offer.
After a failed first attempt to travel to Sri Lanka during COVID-19, I made a new attempt this year. And here I am! For a few days now I have been living in Unawatuna, a small town in the South of Sri Lanka, not far from Colombo. In addition to my remote job, I help out at Sun Diving Centre a few days a week – a decision that followed my heart, as I have long wanted to work as a diving instructor again or at least in a dive centre.
Arriving in the dive centre family
On the very first day I was given a warm welcome and immediately introduced to the family atmosphere of the dive centre. Everything is a bit more relaxed here: while the boat is being loaded or the equipment is being assembled, people sing, laugh and dance. This relaxed attitude makes working here a real pleasure.
The selection of dive sites is impressive. I found the wrecks particularly exciting, including the SS Orestes, which is one of the best dives in Sri Lanka.
My first dive – A wreck full of history
On my first day, I was lucky enough to explore the wreck of SS ORESTES WRECK GALLE (NO NAME / TANGO WRECK). Visibility was very good for the region at over 10 meters, and I was impressed by the variety of marine life that roams here. That’s exactly what makes it so special: the variety and diversity that the dive sites offer. There’s something for every taste – whether you want to discover reef fish, mysterious wrecks or smaller sea creatures (there are endless nudibranchs).
Why Sun Diving Centre is special
A highlight at Sun Diving Centre is the relaxed yet professional atmosphere. The team is international, passionate and keen to offer every diver – whether beginner or experienced professional – a great time.
What is also special is that there is a very special diving spot here for people who are trying diving for the first time. Normally these spots are rather dull and don’t have much to offer. But here you get your money’s worth. Just a five-minute boat ride and you’re there. You can usually see the bottom of the sea from the surface. And underwater you don’t just see fish, there is even a small wreck that you can examine and an artificial reef has even been built. Certainly not a bad conclusion for a first dive.
Diving and life in Unawatuna
After a day of diving, there are plenty of ways to end the day in a relaxed manner in Unawatuna. Whether with a fresh coconut drink on the beach, dinner in one of the many small restaurants or exploring the surrounding area – it never gets boring here. An insider tip is the nearby Angel Beach, which is perfect for relaxing with its quiet location.
My volunteering here is the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation. I am grateful for the experiences I have had here and the people I have been able to get to know. So if you want to experience Sri Lanka not just as a tourist, but as part of a community – and dive into the fascinating underwater world at the same time – then Sun Diving Centre might be just the thing for you.
Click and check out the Sun Diving Centre workaway profile if you’re interested in a volunteering opportunity with them during season times! https://www.workaway.info/en/host/925146897345
By Sue
