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Delft Island Sri Lanka is an isolated, raw, and beautiful place, where wild horses roam among Dutch and Portuguese colonial ruins and turquoise waters remain untouched by crowds. Take the government ferry from Kurikadduwan (twice daily) to explore Portuguese forts, ancient baobab trees, and the mysterious Growing Stone. You can swim in crystal-clear shallow lagoons, spot thousands of migratory birds, and experience Tamil fishing culture with just 4,000 residents. This extensive guide reveals everything you need to plan your perfect island adventure.
Every year on my birthday, I love to spend the day at the beach. It has become a little tradition of mine since 2017, when I first moved to Sri Lanka. There’s something about the ocean—the sound of the waves, the salt in the air, and the endless horizon—that makes the day feel peaceful, grounding, and special. No matter what’s happening in my life, celebrating by the sea reminds me why I chose life in this country.
Why To Visit Delft Island Sri Lanka?
Why should you consider visiting Delft Island, one of Sri Lanka’s most enchanting yet overlooked destinations? This remote gem offers an authentic escape from crowded tourist hotspots, where you’ll discover rich cultural heritage and fascinating historical remnants that tell stories of ancient civilizations.
The island’s pristine natural beauty captivates visitors with stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife roaming freely across unspoiled terrain.
You’ll find the surrounding ocean exceptionally inviting – its calm, shallow waters create perfect conditions for safe swimming, making it ideal for families and water enthusiasts alike.
This extensive Delft Island travel guide reveals why discerning travelers choose this destination for its unique blend of tranquility and adventure.
The Delft Island attractions provide unforgettable experiences that showcase Sri Lanka’s hidden treasures away from mainstream tourism. It became one of my favorite places in Sri Lanka.
A Brief History of Delft Island
When Dutch forces established control in 1658, they renamed it after their homeland city of Delft.
The colonizers built impressive infrastructure including churches, administrative buildings, and defensive structures that you can still explore today.
British rule followed in 1796, maintaining the Dutch name while establishing administrative control from the mainland.
Understanding Delft Island history reveals centuries of cultural fusion between Tamil, Dutch, and British influences that shaped the unique character you’ll experience during your visit.
How To Get To Delft Island?
Planning your journey to this historically rich island requires careful timing and preparation.
To learn how to reach Delft Island Jaffna, you’ll first take a bus or tuktuk from Jaffna to Kurikadduwan, which takes about one hour. From Kurikadduwan Jetty, you’ll board the government ferry for a one-hour crossing to Delft Island.
The Delft Island ferry schedule operates twice daily – morning and afternoon departures – though services depend on weather conditions. The Sri Lanka Navy ferry departs around 8am and offers more stability than wooden boats.
If you miss the government ferry or it’s overcrowded, private boats are available for 35,000 LKR. Travelers often share this cost, making it more affordable when government boats reach capacity.
Top Things To Do In Delft Island
You’ll discover fascinating historical remnants across Delft Island, from Portuguese and Dutch forts to the iconic Queen’s Tower that stands as a symbol of colonial architecture.
The island’s ruins of ancient Buddhist temples and Hindu kovils offer glimpses into its rich spiritual heritage.
Don’t miss watching the wild horses roam freely across the landscape, and explore the old horse stables that once housed these magnificent animals.
Visit Portuguese/Dutch Forts
As you explore Delft Island’s historical landscape, the Portuguese and Dutch forts stand as evidence to centuries of colonial influence in Sri Lankan waters.
When you visit Portuguese/Dutch forts on Delft Island close to Jaffna, you’ll discover remarkably preserved colonial architecture that tells fascinating stories of maritime power struggles.
The main fortress, built with coral and limestone, remains a colonial stronghold that still stands in ruins today. You’ll find massive walls and strategic positioning that once controlled important sea routes.
These weathered structures showcase impressive engineering techniques adapted to local materials and tropical conditions.
Walking through these ancient fortifications, you can imagine Portuguese traders and Dutch administrators who once commanded these waters.
The forts offer excellent photography opportunities while providing tangible connections to Sri Lanka’s complex colonial past.
Queen’s Tower
Beyond the colonial fortifications, Queen’s Tower emerges as one of Delft Island’s most intriguing architectural mysteries. This tall coral-stone tower stands as a monument to the island’s complex history, though its exact purpose remains debated among historians and visitors alike.
You’ll find this enigmatic structure rising prominently from the landscape, believed to have served either as a lighthouse guiding ships through treacherous waters or as a strategic survey point for monitoring the surrounding seas.
The tower’s coral-stone construction showcases the resourcefulness of its builders, utilizing locally available materials.
When exploring things to do in Delft Island, Queen’s Tower offers you a fascinating glimpse into maritime history. Its weathered walls and commanding presence make it an essential stop for anyone seeking to understand the island’s strategic importance throughout different colonial periods.
Ruins of a Buddhist Temple & Hindu Kovil
Scattered across Delft Island’s landscape, the haunting ruins of ancient Buddhist temples and Hindu kovils tell a compelling story of the island’s rich multicultural heritage.
You’ll discover these sacred remnants reflecting the island’s diverse spiritual history surrounded with centuries old banyan trees that create an almost mystical atmosphere.
As you explore the ruins of a buddhist temple & hindu kovil, you’ll witness how different faiths coexisted peacefully on this remote island.
The weathered stone foundations and crumbling walls speak to generations of worship and devotion.
These archaeological treasures showcase intricate carvings and architectural elements that highlight the skilled craftsmanship of ancient builders.
The spiritual significance of these sites makes delft island worth visiting for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers seeking authentic experiences.
Watch The Wild Horses Roam Free
Moving beyond the spiritual ruins that dot Delft Island’s landscape, you’ll encounter one of nature’s most enchanting spectacles – wild horses roaming freely across the windswept terrain.
These magnificent creatures are descendants of animals brought by the Portuguese centuries ago, now living completely untamed across the island’s scrublands.
You’ll spot these Delft Island wild horses grazing or galloping across open fields. They’ve adapted perfectly to the harsh, arid conditions, developing remarkable resilience.
The horses remain completely wild – maintaining their distance from visitors while continuing their natural behaviors.
When considering what to see in Delft Island Sri Lanka, watching these majestic animals represents an unforgettable wildlife experience.
Their presence adds a mystical quality to this already fascinating destination, creating memories that’ll last forever.
Old Horse Stables
The massive stone foundations of colonial-era horse stables stretch 150 meters across Delft Island’s landscape, offering a tangible connection to the island’s military past.
These old horse stables once housed cavalry horses during Dutch and British colonial periods, serving as a vital military outpost. You’ll find the weathered stone walls remarkably well-preserved despite centuries of exposure to sea winds and tropical weather.
Walking through the ruins, you can imagine the bustling activity that once filled these quarters. The sheer scale demonstrates the strategic importance colonial powers placed on Delft Island.
Most Delft Island tour guides will explain how these stables supported mounted patrols across the northern peninsula. You’ll appreciate the engineering skills required to construct such massive structures using local coral stone and imported materials.
Dutch Court
Where else can you explore centuries-old Dutch colonial justice than among the weathered remains of Delft Island’s administrative courthouse? The Dutch Court stands as a haunting symbol of colonial rule, where legal proceedings once determined the fate of locals under foreign governance.
These crumbling stone walls tell stories of power, control, and administrative decisions that shaped island life for generations.
You’ll find yourself walking through history as you examine the remains of the Dutch administrative building, imagining the judicial activities that occurred within these weathered chambers.
During your Delft Island day trip from Jaffna, this historical site offers unique insights into colonial legal systems.
The courthouse ruins provide excellent photography opportunities while allowing you to contemplate the complex legacy of Dutch occupation on this remote island.
Pigeon Nests
Among Delft Island’s most fascinating colonial remnants, you’ll discover an intricate network of stone pigeon nests that once served as the Dutch administration’s primary communication system.
These carefully constructed structures allowed carrier pigeons to transport messages efficiently across the island and mainland, connecting remote outposts with administrative centers.
You’ll find these historic nests scattered throughout the island, each representing a significant piece of Sri Lanka’s colonial telecommunications history.
The Dutch engineered this ingenious system to overcome communication challenges posed by Delft Island’s isolated location and rugged terrain.
When considering if Delft Island is worth visiting, these unique pigeon nests provide compelling evidence.
The best time to visit Delft Island coincides with dry season months, ensuring ideal exploration conditions for examining these remarkable colonial artifacts up close.
Take A Picture Inside A Big Baobab Tree
Standing majestically near the island’s center, Delft’s ancient baobab tree offers you one of Sri Lanka’s most unique photo opportunities.
This remarkable 400-year-old giant features a hollow trunk spacious enough to shelter several people comfortably. You’ll find yourself stepping inside nature’s own cathedral, where the curved interior walls create perfect space for memorable photographs.
The tree’s massive circumference and weathered bark tell stories of centuries past. You can capture stunning shots from both inside and outside this natural wonder.
Since figuring out how to get to Delft Island requires advance planning, and where to stay in Delft Island options are limited, make sure you allocate sufficient time to explore this incredible baobab tree during your visit. At least two nights are reccommended.
Devil’s Well
After exploring the island’s natural wonders above ground, you’ll discover one of Delft’s most enigmatic attractions lies hidden beneath the surface.
Devil’s Well stands as one of nature’s most perplexing mysteries on the island. This freshwater well defies logic by never running dry, maintaining its water levels even during severe droughts when other sources fail.
You’ll find this remarkable geological anomaly fascinating as locals share stories about its supernatural properties. The well’s consistent water supply has sustained island communities for generations, earning both reverence and superstition from residents.
While planning your visit, consider staying at nearby delft island accommodation to fully experience this mystical site. The well’s mysterious nature makes it a must-see attraction that’ll leave you pondering its secrets long after departure.
Growing Stone
While Devil’s Well captivates visitors with its endless water supply, another geological wonder awaits your discovery on Delft Island.
The Growing Stone stands as one of the island’s most mystifying attractions, defying conventional understanding of how rocks behave.
Locals firmly believe this boulder continuously increases in size over time, though scientists haven’t definitively explained this phenomenon.
What makes this stone even more remarkable is its spiritual significance to the community. You’ll find it serves as an active worshipping place where devotees gather to pray and make offerings.
When you visit the Growing Stone, you’re experiencing both a geological curiosity and a sacred site.
The boulder represents the fascinating blend of natural mystery and cultural reverence that defines Delft Island’s unique character.
Giant Footprint
Beyond the Growing Stone’s spiritual mysteries, Delft Island reveals another legendary wonder that’ll spark your imagination.
You’ll discover a massive footprint etched into the island’s rocky terrain, believed to belong to an ancient giant from local folklore. This mysterious impression captivates visitors with its supernatural origins and perfectly preserved shape.
The giant footprint serves as compelling evidence of the island’s mythical past, where legends speak of colossal beings who once roamed these lands.
You can examine the deep indentation and marvel at its remarkable size, far exceeding any human foot. Local guides will share fascinating stories about how this mark came to exist, connecting you to centuries-old tales that have shaped the island’s cultural identity and spiritual significance.
Quindah Tower
From ancient legends to colonial history, Delft Island’s Quindah Tower stands as a remarkable symbol of Portuguese architectural ingenuity.
You’ll discover this distinctive stone tower rising dramatically from the island’s landscape, built during the 16th-century Portuguese occupation. The cylindrical structure showcases impressive masonry work that’s withstood centuries of monsoons and coastal weathering.
You can explore the tower’s weathered exterior and imagine its strategic importance as a watchtower overlooking the surrounding waters. Local guides often share fascinating stories about its construction and military significance during colonial times.
The tower’s unique design reflects Portuguese architectural techniques adapted to Sri Lankan conditions.
Don’t forget your camera – the tower creates stunning silhouettes against Delft’s expansive skies, especially during golden hour photography sessions.
Coral Walls
Delft Island’s coral walls represent one of nature’s most extraordinary building materials repurposed by human ingenuity.
You’ll discover an architectural marvel that’s completely unique to this remote island – entire homes and fences constructed exclusively from dead coral.
As you explore the village, you’ll witness how generations of islanders have masterfully transformed bleached coral skeletons into stunning structural elements.
These aren’t decorative accents; they’re complete walls forming the backbone of residential buildings. The coral’s natural porous texture creates excellent insulation while its calcium carbonate composition guarantees remarkable durability against harsh coastal weather.
You’ll find this building technique exists nowhere else in Sri Lanka.
Each coral wall tells a story of resourcefulness, where islanders turned ocean remnants into permanent shelter, creating a distinctive architectural heritage that’s both functional and breathtakingly beautiful.
Aloe Vera Fields
As you venture across Delft Island’s terrain, you’ll encounter vast stretches of wild aloe vera plants that transform the landscape into a natural pharmacy.
These wide stretches of wild aloe covering the island’s sandy soils create an impressive sight that’s both beautiful and beneficial. The hardy plants thrive in Delft’s arid conditions, spreading across acres of terrain in dense formations.
You can walk through these natural aloe fields and observe how the succulent plants have adapted to the island’s harsh environment. The thick, fleshy leaves store precious moisture, allowing them to flourish despite limited rainfall.
Local communities have traditionally harvested these plants for their medicinal properties, using the gel for treating cuts, burns, and skin ailments throughout generations.
We really enjoyed a cold aloe vera juice at the Navy camp, just next to Queen’s Tower.
Flamingos & Migratory Birds
Something magical happens when seasonal migrations bring thousands of birds to Delft Island’s pristine wetlands and shallow lagoons.
You’ll witness nature’s spectacular show as elegant flamingos arrive during specific times of the year, transforming the island’s waters into a pink-hued paradise.
The shallow lagoons create perfect feeding conditions for these magnificent birds, allowing you to observe their graceful movements and feeding behaviors up close.
Beyond flamingos, you’ll spot various migratory species that use Delft as an essential stopover point during their long journeys.
Bring binoculars and your camera to capture these incredible moments.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best viewing opportunities when birds are most active.
You’ll find the northern and western shores particularly rewarding for birdwatching adventures.
Swim In Turquoise Shallow Waters
While flamingos paint the skies above, Delft Island’s crystal-clear turquoise waters invite you to experience their stunning beauty firsthand.
You’ll find yourself in a swimmer’s paradise where shallow, pristine waters stretch endlessly before you. The island’s unique geography creates perfect swimming conditions. You can wade far out into the sea without worrying about sudden depth changes, making it ideal for swimmers of all skill levels.
The crystal-clear visibility allows you to see the sandy bottom beneath your feet as you venture deeper. These tranquil waters offer a rejuvenating escape from Sri Lanka’s tropical heat.
You’ll discover that the gentle waves and warm temperatures create an almost therapeutic swimming experience. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or aquatic adventure, Delft Island’s turquoise shallows provide an unforgettable natural swimming pool.
Take A Boat Sunset Tour
What better way to crown your Delft Island adventure than watching the sun melt into the horizon from the deck of a traditional boat? You’ll glide across calm waters as the sky transforms into a canvas of brilliant oranges, pinks, and purples. The fiery skies reflecting on turquoise waters create an absolutely magical experience that’ll leave you breathless.
If you take this tour, you’ll cruise along Delft’s coastline, passing ancient coral formations and spotting seabirds returning to their roosts.
The gentle rocking of the boat and the warm evening breeze make this the perfect way to unwind after exploring the island. It’s a magical way to end your visit, creating memories you’ll treasure long after leaving Sri Lanka’s northern waters.
Enjoy Drinks From Palmyra (Palmera) Palms
After soaking in those stunning sunset views, you’ll want to sample one of Delft Island’s most authentic local experiences. The Palmyra palm stands as the signature tree of both Jaffna and Delft, and you shouldn’t miss trying fresh Palmyra drinks during your visit.
Locals have mastered using every part of this remarkable tree. They harvest the sap to create invigorating beverages like toddy, while the fruit provides nourishment. Leaves get woven into mats, and trunks serve as building materials. Nothing goes to waste.
When you taste that fresh Palmyra drink, you’re experiencing centuries of local tradition. The sweet, slightly fermented flavor offers a unique taste that perfectly captures the essence of island life and connects you directly with Delft’s cultural heritage.
Wildlife and Nature on Delft Island
Three distinct ecosystems converge on Delft Island to create a remarkable wildlife sanctuary that’s largely untouched by modern development.
You’ll encounter coastal mangroves, dry grasslands, and rocky shores that support diverse species. Wild ponies roam freely across the island – descendants of horses brought by Dutch colonizers centuries ago. These hardy animals have adapted perfectly to the harsh conditions.
Bird enthusiasts will spot migratory species including flamingos, pelicans, and various shorebirds that use the island as a stopover.
The surrounding waters teem with marine life, making snorkeling rewarding around coral formations. You’ll also find monitor lizards, land crabs, and numerous butterfly species.
The island’s isolation has preserved its natural balance, offering you authentic wildlife encounters without crowds or commercialization that plague other destinations.
Local Culture and Community
Since Delft Island remains one of Sri Lanka’s most isolated communities, you’ll discover a Tamil fishing culture that’s remained virtually unchanged for generations.
The island’s 4,000 residents primarily speak Tamil and practice Hinduism, with several small kovils (temples) dotting the landscape.
You’ll witness traditional fishing methods using outrigger boats called “vallams” and observe women weaving palmyra leaves into baskets and mats.
The community operates on a barter system for many daily transactions, and you’ll find locals incredibly welcoming despite limited English.
Visit during Pongal or Deepavali festivals to experience authentic Tamil celebrations.
You’ll notice how families work together in fishing, farming, and animal husbandry, maintaining strong communal bonds that’ve sustained them through centuries of isolation.
Best Time to Visit Delft Island
While Delft Island welcomes visitors year-round, you’ll find the ideal window falls between May and September when the northeast monsoon subsides and seas remain relatively calm.
During this dry season, you’ll experience minimal rainfall and clearer skies, making boat transfers from Jaffna more reliable and comfortable.
July offers particularly favorable conditions with warm temperatures and gentle breezes perfect for exploring the island’s attractions. The calm waters during these months also provide better visibility for spotting marine life during your ferry journey.
Avoid visiting during October through January when the northeast monsoon brings heavy rains and rough seas, potentially disrupting boat services.
February through April can be unpredictable with occasional showers, though still manageable for determined travelers seeking fewer crowds.
Where to Stay in Delft Island
You’ll find three distinct accommodation options on Delft Island that cater to different travel preferences and budgets.
The Delft Village Stay offers an authentic local experience in the heart of the community, while both the Delft Jungle Beachfront Villa and Delft Eco Beachfront Villa provide stunning oceanfront locations with unique characteristics.
Each option gives you direct access to the island’s natural beauty and cultural attractions.
Delft Village Stay
After watching Shanneler’s inspiring video about Delft Island, discovering Delft Village Stay becomes an obvious choice for conscious travelers seeking authentic experiences.
This unique eco-retreat showcases a young entrepreneur’s vision, transforming his grandparents’ land into a sustainable campsite that benefits both nature and locals.
You’ll stay in charming tents and villa right in the village, just two minutes from the beach. The property operates on sustainable principles with minimal environmental impact while maintaining affordability.
With an exceptional 9.6 rating from nearly 200 reviews, guests consistently praise the warm hospitality and creative touches.
You’ll enjoy evening campfires with relaxing Tibetan music, organized tours, and access to nearby shops. It’s genuine ecotourism that delivers positive vibes and immersive island experiences.
Delft Jungle Beachfront Villa
Escape from everyday life reaches new heights at Delft Jungle Beachfront Villa, where rustic charm meets pristine coastline in perfect harmony.
You’ll discover breathtaking sea views stretching endlessly across the horizon, creating an unforgettable backdrop for your island retreat. The villa’s private beach guarantees complete privacy, letting you unwind without crowds or distractions.
This seaside sanctuary delivers exceptional value, earning an outstanding 9.9/10 rating from guests who consistently praise its peaceful atmosphere and authentic character.
You’ll experience true solitude surrounded by natural beauty, where tranquil ambiance defines every moment of your stay. The villa perfectly captures Delft Island’s unspoiled essence, offering a quiet, scenic escape that connects you directly with the shoreline’s raw magnificence and untouched wilderness.
Delft Island Travel Tips for Tourists
You’ll want to plan your trip carefully since Delft Island’s remote location requires specific preparation and timing.
Understanding the ferry schedule, packing the right supplies, and knowing what food and drinks are available will make your visit much smoother.
We’ll cover the essential safety tips, comfort items, and must-have gear that’ll guarantee you’re ready for this unique Sri Lankan adventure.
Delft Island Ferry Schedule
Three ferry services connect Delft Island to the mainland, making your journey planning straightforward once you understand the schedule patterns.
You’ll find ferries departing from Kurikadduwan Jetty in Jaffna to Delft Island twice daily at 9:00 AM and 2:30 PM. Return trips leave Delft at 10:30 AM and 4:00 PM, giving you roughly 5-6 hours on the island for exploration if you want to explore island without spending a night there.
The 45-minute journey costs approximately 50 LKR per person each way. You should arrive at the jetty 30 minutes early since ferries won’t wait for latecomers. We went with morning Navy boat and were not charged anything.
Weather conditions can affect schedules, particularly during monsoon season from October to January. Don’t rely on Sunday services as they’re often irregular.
Food, Drinks, and What to Pack
Planning your meals becomes simple once you’ve secured your accommodation.
Food at Delft Village Stay is very affordable, making it convenient to dine where you’re staying. However, if you’re craving variety, there’s a local restaurant available for a different dining experience. Small local shops also provide additional options for snacks and essentials.
Pack light, breathable clothing suitable for tropical weather, along with sun protection like hats and sunscreen.
Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring the island’s terrain. Don’t forget a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout your adventure.
Since Delft Island maintains a simple, rural atmosphere, pack any specific medications or personal items you might need, as shopping options remain limited to basic necessities.
Safety, Comfort, and Essentials
While Delft Island offers a peaceful retreat from urban chaos, understanding basic safety considerations guarantees you’ll maximize your comfort during the visit.
The island’s remote location means limited medical facilities, so pack a thorough first-aid kit with prescription medications, antiseptics, and pain relievers.
Protect yourself from intense sun exposure with coral-safe high-SPF sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, and lightweight long-sleeved clothing. The coral-scattered coastline requires sturdy footwear to prevent cuts and injuries while exploring.
Bring insect repellent for evening mosquitoes and other bugs. Since there’s no ATM on the island, carry sufficient cash for boat rides, guide fees, and refreshments.
Download offline maps beforehand as cellular coverage can be spotty. Most importantly, inform someone about your travel plans and expected return time for safety.
Sustainable & Responsible Travel Tips
Since Delft Island’s pristine coral reefs and diverse wildlife face increasing pressure from tourism, you’ll want to minimize your environmental impact during your visit.
Choose reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine ecosystems when snorkeling. Don’t touch or stand on coral formations, as they’re extremely fragile and take decades to grow. Avoid feeding wild horses and other animals, which disrupts their natural behavior and diet.
Pack reusable water bottles and shopping bags to reduce plastic waste. Dispose of trash properly or pack it out entirely.
Respect archaeological sites by not climbing on ruins or removing artifacts. Support local communities by purchasing handicrafts directly from artisans and hiring local guides.
Stay on designated paths to prevent erosion and protect vegetation. Your responsible choices help preserve this unique island for future generations.
Final Thoughts: Is Delft Island Worth Visiting?
Why should you consider adding this remote Sri Lankan island to your travel itinerary? Delft Island Sri Lanka offers an authentic escape from Sri Lanka’s tourist crowds.
You’ll discover wild horses roaming freely, ancient Dutch ruins, and pristine beaches without commercialization. The boat journey itself becomes part of the adventure, crossing turquoise waters while spotting dolphins.
This isn’t a destination for luxury seekers or those wanting extensive amenities. You’ll find basic facilities and limited dining options.
However, if you’re seeking genuine cultural immersion, historical intrigue, and untouched natural beauty, Delft delivers exceptionally.
The island rewards curious travelers who appreciate simplicity over sophistication. You’ll leave with unique memories unavailable elsewhere in Sri Lanka.
For adventurous souls wanting authentic experiences in Sri Lanka, Delft Island absolutely deserves a spot on your itinerary.
Erzsebet Frey (Eli Frey) is an ecologist and online entrepreneur with a Master of Science in Ecology from the University of Belgrade. Originally from Serbia, she has lived in Sri Lanka since 2017. Eli has worked internationally in countries like Oman, Brazil, Germany, and Sri Lanka. In 2018, she expanded into SEO and blogging, completing courses from UC Davis and Edinburgh. Eli has founded multiple websites focused on biology, ecology, environmental science, sustainable and simple living, and outdoor activities. She enjoys creating nature and simple living videos on YouTube and participates in speleology, diving, and hiking.