Plettenberg Bay: Swim with the Seals

Greater Plettenberg Bay, Garden Route



Jump on the boat for a guided trip to Robberg Nature Reserve, where you get up close & personal with the playful Cape Fur Seals! FREE Photos are made available to you after the trip!

Swim with Cape Fur Seals at Robberg Nature Reserve

This guided 30-minute seal snorkeling experience near Plettenberg Bay suits families and wildlife enthusiasts seeking a natural marine encounter.

Highlights

  • Swim with Cape Fur Seals in their natural environment
  • Suitable for the whole family
  • Scenic boat trip to Robberg Nature Reserve
  • Option to stay dry and view seals from the boat
  • Free photos and videos provided
  • Waterproof action cameras available to rent

Description

The experience begins at the dive centre where your guide will assist with fitting snorkel gear. Changing rooms and lockers are available on site. After gearing up, you’ll walk to the boat and receive a safety briefing before a short boat ride to the Robberg Nature Reserve seal colony, home to 6,000–8,000 seals.

Once there, you will snorkel with a qualified guide for 30 minutes amidst curious and gentle Cape Fur Seals. After the swim, return to the centre to use showers and changing rooms. Free photos and videos of your encounter will be available after the trip.

Safety and Rabies Update

Recent isolated rabies cases in seals have led to enhanced safety measures coordinated with authorities and other operators. Experienced marine spotters monitor seal behavior, and guides carry first aid kits for bites. The boat remains close to swimmers for immediate assistance. The operator has a 30-year accident-free record and works closely with a local trauma doctor prepared for seal bite incidents. If you prefer, you can opt for a seal viewing trip from the boat instead of swimming.

Includes

  • Professional dive guide
  • Wetsuit
  • Snorkelling equipment (mask and fins)
  • Guaranteed seal sightings

Excludes

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Towels

Important Information

  • Please arrive at the dive centre at least 45 minutes before the scheduled departure.
  • Provide a WhatsApp number when booking for easy communication.
  • The activity is weather dependent and may be rescheduled if cancelled.
  • Spectators can join as seal viewing guests for R550.
  • Group discount: R100 off per person for bookings of 4 or more.
  • Free photos are provided after the trip.

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For best experience, bring a towel and swimwear, and check weather conditions before booking. Early morning trips often offer calm seas and better seal activity.

Frequently Asked Questions

It is a guided 30-minute snorkeling tour to swim with Cape Fur Seals near Robberg Nature Reserve on the Garden Route.
The tour starts at the dive centre near Plettenberg Bay, where guides fit you with snorkel gear.
Yes, the experience is designed to be suitable for the whole family, including children.
You can swim among the seals in their natural environment at Robberg Nature Reserve, getting up close safely.
Yes, there is an option to remain on the boat and view the seals without snorkeling.
Free photos and videos of your seal encounter are provided after the tour.
Waterproof action cameras are available to rent for capturing underwater footage of the seals.
Check the website for current operating hours and seasonal availability.
No prior experience is necessary as guides assist with equipment and safety instructions.
Robberg Nature Reserve is a short boat ride from Plettenberg Bay along the Garden Route coast.

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