Seal Snorkelling in Hout Bay: An Incredible Marine Adventure

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to dive into the ocean and swim alongside playful seals? Well, I have, and let me tell you, it is an experience like no other!

Imagine putting on your snorkel gear, feeling the thrill of anticipation as you dive into the cool, refreshing waters of Hout Bay. As you submerge, you are greeted by a whole new world – a world inhabited by curious and friendly seals.

These adorable creatures, known as Cape fur seals, are famous for their playful nature and inquisitive personalities. They are bound to grab your attention with their acrobatic skills and mischievous behavior. From somersaulting through the water to blowing bubbles, these seals know how to put on a show!

Snorkelling with seals in Hout Bay is not only an exciting adventure but also an opportunity to witness marine life up close and personal. As you swim alongside these charismatic animals, you’ll get a glimpse into their underwater world. The crystal-clear waters provide the perfect window to observe the seals in their natural habitat.

But the joy of seal snorkelling doesn’t end there. As you explore the underwater playground, you might encounter other fascinating species like colorful fish, graceful rays, and maybe even a shy octopus hiding amidst the rocks. It’s a chance to discover the incredible diversity of marine life that inhabits the waters of Hout Bay.

Now, you might be wondering, is seal snorkelling suitable for everyone? The answer is yes! You don’t need to be an experienced snorkeler to enjoy this adventure. The guides are knowledgeable and will provide you with all the necessary instructions and gear to ensure your safety and comfort in the water. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced swimmer, seal snorkelling is an activity that can be enjoyed by all.

So, if you’re ready to embark on a marine adventure like no other, consider seal snorkelling in Hout Bay. It’s an opportunity to connect with nature, witness the beauty of marine life, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Hey, want to have an amazing underwater adventure? Well, how about snorkeling with some playful creatures at Duiker Island? And here’s the best part – you’ll get to enjoy a 50% discount!

Have you ever heard of seals being called “puppies of the sea”? It’s because they’re just so adorable, curious, and always ready to have fun with snorkelers like you!

Located just ten minutes away from Hout Bay Harbour, Duiker Island is a true paradise for seal snorkeling. With almost 8,000 Cape fur seals residing here, it’s the perfect place to meet these charming creatures. The icy ocean water and thick kelp forests surrounding the island also act as a natural barrier against sharks – amazing, right? No need to worry about encountering any Great Whites here!

Did you know that Duiker Island is situated in a special area called the Karbonkelberg zone? It’s part of the Table Mountain National Park Marine Protected Area and is known for its diverse marine and birdlife. This incredible variety is a result of the meeting of the cold Benguela and warm Atlantic currents in this area.

Snorkeling with Seals in Cape Town: Where and How

Once I arrive at the seal-snorkeling base in Hout Bay, I will be guided to the harbor where we will board rubber ducks (Zodiacs) and head to Duiker Island, the snorkeling site.

The entire tour will last approximately two and a half hours, which includes about thirty minutes for meeting the guides and getting ready. The actual time spent in the water with the seals will be around 40 to 60 minutes.

COVID Precautions

• Upon arrival, temperature checks will be conducted, and hand sanitizers will be provided.
• All staff and guests are required to wear masks at all times.
• Throughout the tour, social distancing will be maintained both at the office, in the vehicle, and on the vessels.
• Each time slot will only accommodate up to six guests.
• Regular hand-washing and sanitizing will be required by both staff and guests throughout the entire tour.

I’ve got some important information for you. When you come to our location, you’ll find that all of our equipment is really clean and germ-free. We make sure to sanitize everything thoroughly. But if you’d feel more comfortable, you’re welcome to bring your own equipment. We want to keep everyone safe, so we’re also going to keep some records of our guests. This is just in case we need to trace anyone later on. Your privacy is important to us, so don’t worry, we’ll only keep the information we need and it will be handled carefully. We’re taking these steps to make sure you have a great and safe experience with us.

When it comes to the cost

Snorkeling is a fun activity that allows you to explore underwater and see the amazing marine life up close. And if you’re considering giving it a try, you’ll be glad to know that there are some great inclusions in the cost of the experience.

• Snorkeling equipment and wetsuits: You don’t need to worry about bringing your own gear. We provide all the necessary equipment, including snorkels, masks, and wetsuits, to ensure you have a comfortable and safe snorkeling experience.
• Transportation: We’ve got you covered when it comes to getting to the snorkeling location. We offer convenient transportation from our office in Hout Bay to the location and back, so you don’t have to worry about finding your own way there.
• Refreshments: Snorkeling can be thirsty work, so we make sure to keep you hydrated. We provide drinking water, biscuits, and hot chocolate aboard the boat, so you can stay refreshed throughout the experience.

Now, let’s talk about what you need to bring

Before you set off on your snorkeling adventure, there are a few things you should bring along to ensure you have a great time:

• Face mask: It’s important to have the right gear for snorkeling, and a good face mask is essential. Make sure you bring an appropriate face mask that fits you well.
• ID number: For safety reasons, we require all participants to provide their ID number for sign-in. So don’t forget to bring it along.
• Swimwear: Of course, you’ll need swimwear for snorkeling. Be sure to bring your favorite swimsuit along, so you can enjoy the water to the fullest.
• Towel: After snorkeling, you’ll probably want to dry off, so don’t forget to bring a towel.
• Sunscreen: Sun protection is crucial, especially when you’re spending time in the water. Remember to bring sunscreen and apply it before heading out on your snorkeling adventure.
• Camera: Snorkeling offers some incredible views and opportunities for underwater photography. If you have a waterproof camera, don’t hesitate to bring it along and capture those unforgettable moments.
• Motion-sickness tablets: If you’re prone to motion sickness, it’s a good idea to bring along some motion-sickness tablets, just in case. It’s always better to be prepared.
• Rain jacket: The weather can be unpredictable, so it’s wise to bring a rain jacket. Even if it’s sunny when you start, you never know when a sudden shower might surprise you.

Here are some additional things you should know

• Weather-dependent: Our snorkeling trips are dependent on the weather conditions. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, we may have to reschedule your trip for a later date to ensure your safety and enjoyment.
• Viewing from the boat: If you’re not comfortable snorkeling, or if the conditions are not suitable, you can still enjoy the experience by choosing to view the seals from the boat. It’s a great alternative that allows you to still see the amazing marine life.
• Age requirements: To participate in the snorkeling activity, you need to be at least 10 years old. However, if you’re younger than that, you can still join in on the fun by viewing the seals from the boat, as long as a parent is present.

Hey there! So, if you’re thinking of going snorkeling in Cape Town, I’ve got some cool info for you. No worries if you’ve never done it before. You don’t need any previous experience, but it’s important that you’re a good swimmer and feel comfortable in the water. Safety first, right?

Now, if you want to capture those underwater memories, you can rent an underwater camera right there. It’s super convenient! They’ll give you a 16GB memory card to take home with you. If you already have your own micro SD card, the rental will only cost you R200. Isn’t that great?

Oh, and don’t worry about missing out on any souvenirs. There’s a shop right there on-site, open every day from 9am to 4pm. You can get all your snorkeling gear and whatever else you need.

Here’s another cool thing: you can get vouchers at special rates if you want to give this experience as a gift or plan ahead for yourself. These vouchers are valid for a whole two years from the date of purchase. That’s plenty of time to decide when you want to take the plunge!

So, what are you waiting for? Dive in, my friend! The seals are ready and waiting for you to join them in this amazing snorkeling adventure!

P.S. Don’t wanna miss out on any other happenings in Cape Town? Just subscribe to our weekly newsletter and we’ll make sure you’re the first to know. Exciting, right? See you underwater!