Seal Island lies a short distance offshore from Mossel Bay and is home to a large colony of Cape fur seals, which makes it one of the most reliable wildlife outings on the western end of the Garden Route. A boat trip from the harbour takes you out past the headland and around the island, where seals crowd the rocks, slide into the water and squabble over the best spots. Seabirds such as gannets, cormorants and gulls use the same rocks, and common dolphins are often seen in the bay. In the whale season, roughly from June to November, southern right and humpback whales can pass close to shore, and boat operators often combine the trip with a look for them. The excursion is short, usually a couple of hours at most, and it gives a very different view of Mossel Bay from the town, with the cliffs, the lighthouse and the long beach all visible from the water. The island is also known as a place where great white sharks hunt seals, which is part of the story the crew will tell, though you are not in the water on this trip.
What to expect
You check in at the harbour, listen to a safety briefing and board a small boat. The crew steer out to the island, cut the engine or slow down near the seals and give you time to look and photograph. The ride can be bumpy when there is a swell, so bring a light waterproof jacket and consider motion sickness tablets if you are prone to sickness.
Trips are subject to weather and sea conditions, and an operator may cancel or reschedule if the sea is rough, so build a spare day into your plans if you can.
Choosing a trip
Mossel Bay has several operators, and the products range from simple seal-viewing trips to sunset cruises and whale-watching outings. A trip that names Seal Island is the one for seals and birdlife, while whale-watching boats focus on the winter and spring season. Check what is included and the age rules with the operator, and be aware that prices vary by trip type and group size. If you are curious about the sharks, ask the crew what they know about local activity, because they will usually have a good story.
Planning it
Go in the morning, when the sea is usually calmer, and wear layers, sunglasses and sun protection, since the glare off the water is strong. Combine the trip with a walk on the St Blaize Trail, a visit to the Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex and a seafood lunch at the harbour for an easy day in Mossel Bay. Children who like animals tend to enjoy the noise and smell of the seals, but they need to stay seated and wear life jackets as instructed by the crew.
Photography and comfort
Bring a camera with a zoom or a phone with a good lens, and keep it in a waterproof pouch, because spray can reach the deck. Sit toward the middle of the boat for the smoothest ride, and hold on when the crew say so. If you are interested in the island's reputation as a hunting ground for great white sharks, ask the crew what they have seen and whether they run any dedicated shark-viewing outings.
Return to shore with an appetite, and head to the harbour for a seafood lunch or a walk along the beach to dry off.
What to expect
The experience
A guided small-boat trip from Mossel Bay harbour to Seal Island, with time to watch the Cape fur seal colony, seabirds and, in season, dolphins and whales.
Best time
Morning, when the sea is usually calmer; June to November adds a chance of whales on the way.
How long
About one to two hours on the water, plus check-in and the briefing.
Tips
Bring a waterproof layer, sunscreen and sunglasses, take a motion sickness tablet if you need one and expect the trip to be rescheduled in rough weather.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Wildlife lovers and families who want a short boat outing with a good chance of animals.
- Families
- Children who like animals usually love the seals; they must stay seated and wear life jackets as instructed.
- Couples
- A scenic morning trip followed by a harbour lunch.
- Pair with
- The St Blaize Trail and the Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex.
- Time needed
- Half a day with check-in and lunch.
Good questions
What will I see on a Seal Island trip?+
Mainly Cape fur seals on the rocks, plus seabirds and often dolphins. Whales can be seen in season, roughly June to November.
Do I get in the water?+
No, this is a viewing trip from the boat. Swimming with seals is a separate experience on offer at Plettenberg Bay.
What if the sea is rough?+
Operators decide on the day and may cancel or reschedule in poor conditions, so keep a spare day in your plans.
Will I get seasick?+
It can be bumpy when there is a swell. Take motion sickness medication beforehand if you are prone to it.
How long is the trip?+
Usually one to two hours on the water, depending on the operator and the sea. Check the details when you book.
