Plettenberg Bay is one of the best places in South Africa to meet Cape fur seals, and the colony on the rocks off the Robberg peninsula is the reason. This trip takes a small group by boat from the town to the seal colony, with a stop at the Robberg Nature Reserve, and lets you get into the water with snorkelling equipment while the seals swim around you. They are curious and playful animals, and they will often come close to investigate, spin past and vanish again. The trip lasts about an hour and a half, with the offshore part taking about an hour, and groups are limited to twelve people, which keeps it personal. It is an exciting experience rather than a gentle one, because the water in the bay is cool and the swell can pick up, so it suits people who are comfortable in the sea. Reviewers on rate it highly, with many saying it was the highlight of their trip. If you would rather stay dry, boat trips that only watch the seals also run from the town.
What the trip involves
You arrive about half an hour early at the meeting point in town, are briefed on safety and fitted with snorkelling equipment, and then board the boat. The crew motor out to the colony, hold position, and explain how to behave around the seals before you slip into the water.
Staying calm and not chasing the animals gives the best encounters. The booking page lists snorkelling gear, drinks and souvenir photos as included, but does not mention wetsuits, so check what is provided and consider the water temperature when you choose what to wear.
Safety and comfort
This is a trip for people who are comfortable swimming in open water, and there are health limits, since it is not recommended for anyone with back problems or serious heart or medical conditions. Follow the crew's instructions closely, including any guidance on protective gear and on keeping your distance, because wild seals can bite if they feel cornered. Bring a swimsuit, a towel, sun protection and a warm layer for the boat ride back, and take seasickness tablets in advance if you are prone to it.
Planning it
The summer months bring calmer, warmer conditions, but the trip runs through much of the year, and the operator decides on the day based on the sea. Book ahead in the December holidays. Combine it with a walk at Robberg Nature Reserve, which looks down on the same seal colony from the cliffs, and with lunch in town. Cancellation is free up to a day before, according to the booking page, which makes it easy to reschedule if the weather turns.
What to expect
The experience
A small-group boat trip from Plettenberg Bay to the seal colony off Robberg, with snorkelling in the water beside the seals and a stop at the nature reserve.
Best time
Summer mornings for calmer, warmer conditions, though the trip runs through much of the year when the sea allows.
How long
About an hour and a half, with the offshore part taking around an hour.
Tips
Arrive half an hour early, check whether wetsuits are provided, follow the crew's guidance on keeping your distance and take seasickness tablets if you need them.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Confident swimmers who want a close wildlife encounter they will talk about for years.
- Families
- Check the operator's age conditions, and note that the water is cool and the swell can be lively for children.
- Couples
- A shared adventure that is more memorable than a standard boat trip.
- Pair with
- A walk at Robberg Nature Reserve and lunch in Plettenberg Bay.
- Time needed
- Half a morning.
Good questions
Do I need to be a strong swimmer?+
You should be comfortable swimming in open water, as the bay is cool and the swell can be lively. The operator briefs you before you get in and the crew stay close.
What is included?+
The booking page lists snorkelling equipment, drinks and souvenir photos, and it does not mention wetsuits. Check what is provided and dress for the water temperature.
How big are the groups?+
Groups are limited to twelve people, which keeps the trip personal. Arrive about half an hour early for the briefing.
Is it safe to swim with wild seals?+
The crew give safety instructions and the operator provides guidance on protective gear. Wild seals can bite if cornered, so keep your distance and follow the crew's rules.
What if the weather is bad?+
The operator decides on the day based on the sea. Free cancellation is available up to a day before, so check the terms on the booking page.
