The eye contact is fine. Nice image. Often we fail to notice small potential distractions due to the small viewfinders. The green leaf at the top right corner doesn't add much to the image.

I use a tripod in the boat as I can't handhold my lens. Handholding gives the maximum freedom and if you are able to get sharp shots using handholding, then that is preferable. Else, monopod, tripod etc. One has to take into account the swaying of the boats and click accordingly.

Cheers,
Sabyasachi