SEAL ISLAND TRIP

FALSE BAY'S SEAL ISLAND TRIP

Discover the Wonders of the ‘Real’ Seal Island: A Unique False Bay Adventure

Embark on a Seal Island trip. Nestled in the northern centre of False Bay, just 8 nautical miles from Simon’s Town. This iconic island is home to an astonishing population of approximately 75,000 Cape Fur Seals, alongside a diverse array of endangered sea birds, including a small penguin colony.

This natural sanctuary also tells a dramatic tale of survival: newly weaned seal pups bravely navigate the bay’s waters to their feeding grounds, often encountering the formidable great white sharks that inhabit the area. While our tours are not designed or licensed for shark sightings, an incidental encounter would be an exciting bonus.

This once-in-a-lifetime adventure offers an unparalleled glimpse into the marine life of False Bay. Book your trip today and experience the magic of the ‘Real’ Seal Island!

QUICK INFO

Location:
Simon’s Town to Seal Island, False Bay.

Price:
R950.00 per person.

Duration:
1.5 Hours

Times:
10h15 & 13h45 

Transfer: Transfers can be arranged at R750 per person.

False Bay's Seal Island Trip

What to Expect on Your Cruise

Spectacular Views
As you journey to Seal Island, soak in breathtaking panoramas of False Bay. To the south, marvel at Cape Point and Cape Hangklip, with the iconic Table Mountain rising in the north and the pastel hues of the Hottentot’s Holland mountain range stretching across the eastern horizon.

En-Route Wildlife Encounters
On the way, be prepared for delightful surprises:

  • Pods of dolphins, including migratory groups can number in the hundreds.
  • Resident Bryde’s whales and seasonal visitors like Southern Right and humpback whales.
  • Fishing penguins and hunting seals, often slap their prey on the surface to break it into manageable pieces.

Seal Island Experience
Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Seal Island:

  • Playful seals frolicking in the shallows or surfing the waves at the southern end of the island.
  • Close encounters as we circle the 2-hectare island at an intimate distance, observing enormous bull seals (weighing up to 350 kg) and smaller females (around 90 kg).
  • Thousands of spirited young seals showcasing their natural exuberance.

Seal Breeding Season
During the main breeding season in October and November, witness up to 20,000 pups being born. This unique period includes an extraordinary biological phenomenon: females mate five days after giving birth but delay their pregnancy for four months through a process called delayed implantation. Meanwhile, the males remain on the island, fiercely protecting their harems.

Harmonious Wildlife
Seal Island is a testament to nature’s balance, where seals, birds, and penguins coexist in perfect harmony.

  • Meet at our office in Simon’s Town at 10H15 or 13H45
  • Sign Idemnity forms
  • Head off to the Pier to board the boat to Seal Island, False Bay.
  • Expert guide providing captivating stories and insights from years of experience.
  • Spectacular scenery showcasing the beauty of False Bay and its surroundings.
  • Visit South Africa’s most famous seal habitat.
  • Opportunities to spot endangered sea birds and a small penguin colony.
  • Potential sightings of dolphins and whales.
  • Highest safety standards for a secure and professionally managed experience.
  • Wind jacket
  • Sunblock and Hat
  • Camera
  • Sunglasses
  • Do not over indulge in alcohol the night before as you will be horribly sea sick.

We have a very high success rate, but we are working with wild animals. Please be aware of this, so you do not arrive with unrealistic expectations. Marine animal sightings and activity are never guaranteed and even during peak season, there may be days when the sightings are lower than expected.

Simon’s Town, sometimes spelt Simonstown, is a town in the Western Cape, South Africa and is home to Naval Base Simon’s Town, the South African Navy’s largest base. It is located on the shores of False Bay, on the eastern side of the Cape Peninsula. For more than two centuries it has been a naval base and harbour. 

  • Go shark cage diving
  • Visit the penguins at Boulders beach
  • Visit Cape Point Nature Reserve
  • Visit Mineral World Top Stones
  • Go Kayaking
  • Go water biking 
  • Snorkelling in the Kelp Forests
  • Scuba diving in the Kelp Forests
  • Scuba diving at the various wreck sites in False Bay
  • Walk up to Just Nuisance’s grave
  • Have fish and chips on the pier

The price for the False Bay’s Seal Island Trip is from R950 per person excluding hotel transfers.

Cancellation Fees

For Exclusive Hire & Groups of 5 or More:

  • 30 days or more before the start date: 75% cancellation fee
  • 15 days or less before the start date: 100% cancellation fee

For Individuals & Groups of Fewer Than 4:

  • Less than 7 days before the start date: 75% cancellation fee
  • 48 hours or fewer before the start date: 100% cancellation fee

In the event of cancellation by ASEC, no cancellation fee will apply, and deposits will be refunded. Please Note: As of October 1, 2023, card transaction fees will not be refunded by the bank. Refunds will be issued minus the card fee.

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