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 |   | |   | ___ __|  ___ |  |   \ \ /   |
\____|\___/     _|   _|  _|___|   \_/   _____| 

 --- A GOPHER-LIKE INTERFACE FOR HIVE BLOCKCHAIN ---

Diving with an Electric Ray

BY: @detlev | CREATED: July 27, 2025, 3:26 a.m. | VOTES: 630 | PAYOUT: $39.76 | [ VOTE ]

A Magical electric Encounter in Nilaveli

During my time on Sri Lanka’s east coast, I had one of those dives you dream about – warm waters, thriving reefs, a great crew, and a rare electric ray sighting that absolutely blew my mind. Add a turtle, loads of macro life, and the vibe of Nilaveli, and you have a perfect underwater day.

[IMAGE: https://files.peakd.com/file/peakd-hive/detlev/23xejpjtUgo64RYWqJpHGUA3nn5UZTZ6Z2ZGVPErnUyceJoCgU2h8kiGHRTP2vQPJRRmC.png]

Hey Hive Family
meet a rare seen fish
and let us travel the world again

Boat Ride to Pigeon Island – Dive Begins

We kicked off the day with the amazing Pearl Divers team, who brought us by boat to a site near Pigeon Island in just 20 minutes. The water was calm and inviting at a pleasant 28°C, and visibility was great.

[IMAGE: https://files.peakd.com/file/peakd-hive/detlev/23y8qjG4yKnChnH6MTJJreM8RCHiGGjcRqJ4npiNBuCU3w7spTeMFWgw1ZRrdY5NRCk6j.jpeg]
See more at my other post about diving at Sithanane pare where we met this strange white worm.

Our dive started at about 8 meters, slowly descending into a world of coral gardens, sandy stretches, and colorful marine life. I had my GoPro rolling, ready to capture memories – though I didn’t know yet just how special this dive would be.

[IMAGE: https://files.peakd.com/file/peakd-hive/detlev/AKcao4ffjdQmTSAwePi7Qpc7cC2SVr2c9Crx6g7ZKkw93vUQP8uA3ZppKAAysLY.jpeg]

Yeah, that me under water. Don’t think you look way better wearing as mask and your octopus….🤣

A Rare Encounter: The Marbled Electric Ray

Suddenly, gliding ahead of me, I spotted a disk shaped creature covered in a hypnotic pattern of white-beige spots on a dark brown body. At first, I thought it was a stingray.

I quickly realized I was face-to-face with a marbled electric ray (Torpedo sinuspersici). Whooot - what

[IMAGE: https://files.peakd.com/file/peakd-hive/detlev/Eoke5yC6V7xJRuKUxMwKkdzjNWqLbfo3i9btrfQ8WdAaf9a9Hu2J4zbepbcnYA8H5zR.jpeg]

These rays are part of the Torpedinidae family, known for their ability to generate electric shocks using special organs on either side of their head. Though the shock isn't dangerous to humans unless provoked, it’s enough to stun prey or scare off predators.

https://youtu.be/VdlFUOOleGA?si=QJb1Pv6eWdaBfRA5

Wanne know more about that animal?

Sure, here are some sources
👉 Read more on Wikipedia
📸 Sightings on iNaturalist

I followed it for several minutes at a safe distance – it didn’t bury itself like other rays but floated calmly just above the sandy bottom, turning gently and moving with effortless grace. It was a rare and magical moment, and I still can’t believe how lucky I was to catch it on video.

🐢 Turtles, Nudibranchs & Reef Surprises

The dive had even more in store. We later encountered a peaceful green sea turtle resting beneath a coral overhang, blinking at us like a wise old monk.

https://youtu.be/ZMhbliJ0bBY?si=4r-9ZWiiQIgQtayQ

All around us, the reef was alive with nudibranchs, cleaner shrimp, lionfish, and even a well-camouflaged stonefish.

[IMAGE: https://files.peakd.com/file/peakd-hive/detlev/23tRxNYtzDxbPdReJ7Me52YZWtxkVZ8T8vr8GPcXv5Fr1FzdodfQkx5WsCuziF9xvLgqt.jpeg]

We stayed down for just under an hour before ascending and completing our 3-minute safety stop at 5 meters, floating in the big blue and smiling behind our regulators.

🤿 Pearl Divers – Where Passion Meets Professionalism

The whole experience was made even better thanks to Pearl Divers Nilaveli. Their base is right on the beach, and they offer true PADI 5-star service – professional, friendly, and absolutely focused on safety and fun.

[IMAGE: https://files.peakd.com/file/peakd-hive/detlev/EoK7JXmWdLM9QZCL43QL4EFgNznXNJS2M4KFQz4FbELr2qppiryDzdg8kVrbS8MZsGN.jpeg]

[IMAGE: https://files.peakd.com/file/peakd-hive/detlev/EoiWG7eMuL7LhE7GpYbMSB26Jv3ZbASYkVcmAPku5UGg5hBj8QKQr4BcaZAFvJ1uLaJ.jpeg]

From delivering tanks to the boat to double-checking gear and offering detailed site briefings, everything was smooth. Our guide Shan went above and beyond, pointing out the smallest critters, helping us spot the ray, and explaining every step with clarity and care.

If you’re planning a dive in Nilaveli – don’t miss Pearl Divers.

🌴 Nilaveli – Sri Lanka’s Peaceful East Coast Gem

Nilaveli is a beach town that still feels wild and real. Unlike the busy south coast, this stretch of sand offers peace, space, and crystal-clear waters. The vibe is slow, calm, and totally chill – perfect for both diving and unwinding after.

[IMAGE: https://files.peakd.com/file/peakd-hive/detlev/EoCZypRVxE53JcH3fxrYEELJNfJs1Bh8jr47scSwxTbG6fXk1YH6CX84CoYXTMVsLP2.jpeg]

[IMAGE: https://files.peakd.com/file/peakd-hive/detlev/EoAao7bMNCWzf8yhHSZNwBR5poPAVUGgnzVzMbVLFK41uH6GjpKUM6SoJ8TLcqwogqE.jpeg]

[IMAGE: https://files.peakd.com/file/peakd-hive/detlev/Eoc8QcctnaVwBmaX5CtzcLD1EwrFWka6J2sifGXRK4PpEPmM6MdxZxEdDWDwdJ5DWFq.jpeg]

There are great little restaurants nearby, serving fresh seafood and spicy local curries, and the sunsets from the beach or pool are the perfect end to any dive day.

If you're looking for a peaceful, authentic ocean escape in Sri Lanka, Nilaveli is a top pick.

What does other diver say

After checking some posts, I like to ask this divers about their feedback @gooddream,@scubahead,@feithy26,@world.wanderer, @rizalirawan,@hientran,@raj808,@kev.incredible, @amavi,@mariasalve

Have a great day everybody
and let us travel the world again

[IMAGE: https://files.peakd.com/file/peakd-hive/detlev/kbB5MEUf-98F4F9C1-F663-4296-807D-4D91BFB89304_1_105_c.jpeg]
pic by @detlev

Enjoy the #BeerSaturday
have 3 pics and a story
around beer – and go!

[IMAGE: https://files.peakd.com/file/peakd-hive/detlev/euzyFxJb-Enjoy20Engage20Follow20Detlev.gif]
@Detlev loves HIVE

More from @Detlev
Get / shop my book by HIVE
JOIN BeerSaturday Challenge
Enjoy Engage Follow

TAGS: [ #worldmappin ] [ #srilanka ] [ #dive ] [ #ray ] [ #nilaveli ] [ #travel ] [ #gems ] [ #posh ] [ #diving ] [ #fish ]

Replies

@worldmappin | July 27, 2025, 3:26 a.m. | Votes: 1 | [ VOTE ]

Congratulations, your post has been added to The WorldMapPin Map! 🎉You can check out this post and your own profile on the map. Be part of the Worldmappin Community and join our Discord Channel to get in touch with other travelers, ask questions or just be updated on our latest features.

@theguruasia | July 27, 2025, 3:53 a.m. | Votes: 1 | [ VOTE ]

The south coast isn’t clear yet — it’s still windy and rainy!
Until today, I didn’t even know electric rays could be found in Sri Lanka.

$WINE

Is there a chance we could bring a #HiveFest to Sri Lanka?

@detlev | July 27, 2025, 5:14 a.m. | Votes: 1 | [ VOTE ]

That's a good idea 👍

Are you coming to Kuala Lumpur this year for a discussion?

... and if you like a good 🍺

@theguruasia | July 27, 2025, 6:07 a.m. | Votes: 1 | [ VOTE ]

Actually, I couldn’t attend the next Hive Fest due to a personal reason. Let’s hope the 2026–27 Hive Fest will be in Sri Lanka.
There are lots of attractive locations here (Ella, Nuwara Eliya, South Coast, etc.).

@borsengelaber | July 27, 2025, 4:39 a.m. | Votes: 1 | [ VOTE ]

😲👍🏻

@indiaunited | July 27, 2025, 5:05 a.m. | Votes: 0 | [ VOTE ]

This post has been manually curated by @steemflow from Indiaunited community. Join us on our Discord Server.

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[IMAGE: https://files.peakd.com/file/peakd-hive/bala41288/46eaz12N-image.png]

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@roswelborges | July 27, 2025, 5:59 a.m. | Votes: 1 | [ VOTE ]

What a privilege to be able to experience these unique species firsthand!
Thank you for taking us on this dive!

@marajah | July 27, 2025, 6:31 a.m. | Votes: 1 | [ VOTE ]

Go pro rolling, is it a camera? Am specially interested in the electric shock fish. So if one should provoke it, the shock would be dangerous to the human body?

@detlev | July 27, 2025, 7:43 a.m. | Votes: 0 | [ VOTE ]

GoPro is the name of an action cam. With a good case you can dive up to 30-40m deep.

See https://youtu.be/jGmiYzCPnSE

@marajah | July 27, 2025, 11:37 a.m. | Votes: 0 | [ VOTE ]

Wow, so as you are moving inside the water, did you go in with the cam. Or you stationed it beneath the water? Am asking to know if it is waterproof cam.

@detlev | July 27, 2025, 12:08 p.m. | Votes: 0 | [ VOTE ]

18m deep for 1h

@marajah | July 28, 2025, 6:35 a.m. | Votes: 1 | [ VOTE ]

Thank you sir. You have educated me. There is one thing I so much value about you, you are approachable and accommodating. You always respond with cool mind. Once more, thanks.

@detlev | July 29, 2025, 2:02 a.m. | Votes: 0 | [ VOTE ]

This is just how social media should be

@marajah | July 29, 2025, 10:35 a.m. | Votes: 0 | [ VOTE ]

Exactly. It should represent it's social name. Am grateful.

@patschwork | July 27, 2025, 6:55 a.m. | Votes: 1 | [ VOTE ]

Wow - Es gibt kaum etwas faszinierenderes als die Unterwasserwelt. Wunderschön!

@detlev | July 27, 2025, 7:38 a.m. | Votes: 0 | [ VOTE ]

Hi Patrizia aka @patschwork

Danke und ja - Unterwasser ist ein genialer ganz anderer Lebensraum. Leider sind die Besuchszeiten mit 1h immer zu kurz.

Was ganz anderes - hast Du schon vom http://hive-summit.com in Aachen gehört.

Ende August treffen wir uns für 2-3 Tage nicht nur mit Hivians.

Du bist herzlichst eingeladen!

@patschwork | July 27, 2025, 10:09 a.m. | Votes: 0 | [ VOTE ]

Hallo @detlev,
danke für die Einladung. Allerdings ist das für mich leider nicht machbar - nach den Sommerferien und im Südwesten wäre ich vielleicht dabei :)

@detlev | July 27, 2025, 10:26 a.m. | Votes: 1 | [ VOTE ]

Hi @patschwork dann gern ein nächstes Mal.

Gruß 👋
Detlev

@funtraveller | July 27, 2025, 7:16 a.m. | Votes: 1 | [ VOTE ]

This was such a cool read!

I never knew electric rays could be so graceful underwater. Thanks for sharing the experience and the pics. Loved learning about Nilaveli too, now it's def on my travel list! 🤿⚡🐢

@detlev | July 27, 2025, 7:40 a.m. | Votes: 0 | [ VOTE ]

This east-coast or Sri Lanka is a cool place.

After a trip to the south and the Ella-to-Kandy train, we are back in Trinco.

@latinowinner | July 27, 2025, 8:23 a.m. | Votes: 1 | [ VOTE ]

good to know you're sound and safe. Steve Irwin (aussie icon and owner of Australian Zoo) died some years ago while swimming along a couple of sting rays

@detlev | July 27, 2025, 10:28 a.m. | Votes: 0 | [ VOTE ]

Ups - didn’t know that.

But as a diver you stay close but far enough and luckily the cam has a zoom.

@wanderelle | July 27, 2025, 2:26 p.m. | Votes: 1 | [ VOTE ]

What an incredible dive! 🫡 Spotting a marbled electric ray sounds like a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience ✨ It's awesome that you captured it along with all the other amazing marine life 💖 Pearl Divers sounds like a top-notch team too! 🙌

@raka01 | July 27, 2025, 3 p.m. | Votes: 1 | [ VOTE ]

Amazing 👍🏻

@worldmappin | July 27, 2025, 3:44 p.m. | Votes: 1 | [ VOTE ]

Hiya, @lauramica here, just swinging by to let you know that this post made it into our Honorable Mentions in Travel Digest #2634.Your post has been manually curated by the @worldmappin team. If you like what we're doing, please drop by to check out all the rest of today's great posts and consider supporting other authors like yourself and us so we can keep the project going!Become part of our travel community:

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@detlev | July 27, 2025, 3:55 p.m. | Votes: 2 | [ VOTE ]

Many thanks @lauramica

stay tuned for more Sri Lanka. There was a nice market and a local food store during the last days.

@worldmappin | July 27, 2025, 4:30 p.m. | Votes: 0 | [ VOTE ]

You are very welcome @detlev! it was well deserved. ☀️
We are already looking forward to reading more about your adventures![IMAGE: https://i.imgur.com/XsrNmcl.png]

@stresskiller | July 27, 2025, 4:59 p.m. | Votes: 0 | [ VOTE ]

Nice quality under water video without external lights , water must be very clear there.

@detlev | July 28, 2025, 4 a.m. | Votes: 7 | [ VOTE ]

I have a small rig with just one pro light and a mounted GoPro Cam to use with just one hand.

Works well and isn’t to big.

@robertoasl | July 27, 2025, 5:06 p.m. | Votes: 0 | [ VOTE ]

Me gustan sus fotos.

@robertoasl | July 27, 2025, 5:06 p.m. | Votes: 0 | [ VOTE ]

Hola.

@darine.darine | July 27, 2025, 10:05 p.m. | Votes: 1 | [ VOTE ]

Now tell me the real question... why didn't you go with me? 😆
I love diving so much, and I really wanna go and try it, especially after seeing your experience! Even though I'm still scared a bit. That reef looks so amazing, and all those animals also. Woah, is that a stone fish? I heard it's pretty dangerous to step on. Seeing that ray is truly a miracle! That is such a cool experience of yours.
Hearing you use your go pro reminded me of my long lost one, hope I'll get a new one till the time I'm scuba diving!

@detlev | July 28, 2025, 4:02 a.m. | Votes: 1 | [ VOTE ]

If you are around at HiveFest, Malaysia has some great dive sites.

@darine.darine | July 28, 2025, 7:32 a.m. | Votes: 0 | [ VOTE ]

I'd love to, but most likely I won't be able to

@ssekulji | July 28, 2025, 8:11 p.m. | Votes: 1 | [ VOTE ]

Great stuff!

@sugarfix | July 30, 2025, 7:08 a.m. | Votes: 0 | [ VOTE ]

I'm impressed how that ray can move without actually moving that much

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