SAILING IN SRI LANKA

The result is that Sri Lanka now has a thriving sailing industry for both tourism and manufacturing. Supply Chain challenges are minimised as the college produces much of the component parts themselves. When we visited the college we were shown the 3D printing workshop and also the sail loft which harmonises cutting-edge technology with traditional skills. The stainless steel workshop produces, rigging components and fittings, whilst the rope-making shop produces much of the running rigging for the sailboats.

Presently there is a fleet of ten charter boats ranging from fifty feet cruising sailing catamarans to the unique “Ocean Diamond” which is an eighty feet sailing ‘boutique hotel’. Sail Lanka Charter operates the vessels for charter by individuals and groups.

BIG CAT: THE 27-METRE OCEAN DIAMOND IS EQUIPPED WITH 10 CABINS, EACH WITH A PRIVATE BALCONY.

The Ocean Diamond class is no ordinary floating hotel. The mastermind of Sea Leisure Yachting Group hails from Europe, however he and his family have lived in Sri Lanka for many decades and he is a very keen sailor of dinghies and yachts. So, when Ocean Diamond was being designed he insisted that she be a proper sailing vessel and pretty much self-sustainable. Ocean Diamond has engines, however she can cruise comfortably under sail. The air conditioning for the ten-passenger cabins is powered by a vast array of solar panels on the upper deck. Recognising that passengers demand top-quality food, the top ‘inside’ deck is a restaurant, offering five-star dining with the galley being open to the gaze of the diners – you actually see your food being prepared. There is also a wet bar which opens to the restaurant for drinks service of fine beverages. The cabins are stylish and en-suite with private balconies, air conditioning and ample storage space. There is also a wardrobe, writing desk and vanity area.

EXPLORE THE COASTS: SRI LANKA OFFERS A DIFFERENT SAILING EXPERIENCE, FROM THE COLOURFUL TEMPLES OF THE NORTH, TO THE WHALE WACTHING OF THE SOUTH.

So, what is it like to live aboard? We spent a night on Ocean Diamond in the blue waters of the capital of Colombo. The food was first class, with the chef explaining how he sourced local produce from the ‘upcountry’ farming area of Nuwara Eliya at nearly 2000 metres above sea level. The seafood was fresh and locally caught by the crew. The whole dining experience had the ambiance of a five-star hotel with the table service being friendly and knowledgeable, all with wonderful sea views. Breakfast tea and short eats were taken on our own private veranda whilst enjoying the fresh sea air and stunning views of the Sri Lankan coastline. Sea Leisure Yachting Group was formed to represent all the various divisions under one group.

More information www.slyg.global and www.sail-lanka-charter.com Dubai International Boat Show stand MLL-76.