Sri Lanka’s first-ever underwater museum declared open in Galle

Sri Lanka’s first-ever underwater museum located off Galle shores was declared open on April 5 by Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Piyal De Silva, Navy said. This underwater museum was built off Galle shores under the close supervision of the Commander of the Navy, upon a proposal by the Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa.

The construction work was carried out utilizing the manpower of the Sri Lanka Navy. This special museum is located off the shores of Galle, which attracts a large number of both local and foreign tourists. Further a large collection of artifacts and sculptures made by Navy has been placed here.‍‍

All the statues placed here have been handmade by naval personnel and these unique sculptures have been produced from concrete and eco-friendly materials. The site will promote the formation of corals which will be an added beauty to the site with the passage of time.

The whole underwater story has been set at a depth of around 50 feet in the Galle harbour area providing a unique sightseeing experience for anyone including children, adults, experienced divers, scuba beginners as well as ordinary swimmers.

Initially it was decided to establish this underwater museum utilizing discarded train compartments and fishing vessels. However, since it was not possible to source discarded train compartments and boats at such short notice, the Navy changed the concept and came up with the new design concept comprising plaques and sculptures and replicas of artifacts. Further, the ICC Construction (Pvt) Ltd, INSEE Cement (Lanka) Limited and Sri Lanka Ports Authority extended enormous support in this regard.

The main aim of this project is to promote the regeneration of corals and fish breeding. It is very encouraging to see that the fish breeding has already started at this underwater museum site. By the next season, it is certain that tourists will be able to dive in this area and the surrounding hotels will be able to add this site to their list of tourist attraction. Meanwhile, the fishery community is advised not to engage in fishing at this site during the initial stage, as once fish breeding to take place the fishers could reap its maximum benefits in the future.

Marking another milestone in the annals of Sri Lanka Navy, Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Piyal De Silva who is a veteran in underwater diving, declared open this first-ever underwater museum by cutting the ribbon. Addressing on this occasion, Commander of the Navy expressed his thanks to Commander Southern Naval Area, Rear Admiral Kassapa Paul and other officers and sailors of the command for playing a praiseworthy role during the construction of this mega project.