Walvis Bay: Kayak with Seals at Pelican Point & Brunch

Summary

Kayaking among seals at Pelican Point near Walvis Bay Namibia

You’ll paddle alongside playful seals at Pelican Point with a local guide who knows every current and sandbar. Expect cold air on your cheeks, curious pups swimming close, and brunch waiting after you come ashore. It’s not polished or fancy — just wild coast energy and real moments you’ll remember long after leaving Walvis Bay.

What’s the experience like?

"You’re about to get wet," our guide Jonas grinned, handing me a paddle that still smelled faintly of salt. I’d barely zipped my jacket before the wind caught it — that kind of crisp Atlantic air you only get out here near Walvis Bay. The drive out to Pelican Point felt like crossing into another world: sand on one side, ocean on the other, and then suddenly all these seals barking and flopping around as we dragged the tandem kayaks down to the water.

I’ll admit, I was nervous about kayaking with so many seals (they said over 60,000 live here — can that be right?). But Jonas just laughed and said they’re mostly curious, not aggressive. As soon as we pushed off, a few pups started following us, popping up right by the kayak. Their whiskers looked like tiny paintbrushes. At one point I paused paddling just to listen — it’s noisy but in a funny way, like a hundred dogs trying to outdo each other. My hands got cold fast but honestly I didn’t care; you sort of forget everything else when you’re surrounded by all that movement and noise.

We stuck to the protected side of the peninsula (thankfully), so it wasn’t rough at all. No experience needed — which is good because my steering was questionable at best. Jonas pointed out some older seals sunbathing on the sandbank and told us how their numbers have changed over the years. He also brought up something about tides I didn’t quite catch — maybe I was distracted by a seal sneezing next to me (yes, really). After paddling for what felt like both an hour and five minutes at once, we came back in for brunch: coffee so strong it made my hands shake and some pastries that tasted even better than they looked. Not sure if it was hunger or just being outside for so long.

I still think about those seal eyes peeking up from the water — there’s something weirdly calming about it. If you’re anywhere near Walvis Bay and want something different than just standing on shore watching wildlife, this half-day kayaking tour is worth getting up early for.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak with seals at Pelican Point

• Arrive at Pelican Point
• Join tandem kayak tour
• Explore seal colony by kayak
• Enjoy sightseeing on protected side

Top questions

How far is Pelican Point from Walvis Bay?

It’s about 35 km outside of Walvis Bay by road.

Do I need kayaking experience for this tour?

No previous experience is needed; it’s beginner-friendly.

Are children allowed on the Pelican Point kayaking tour?

Yes, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

What’s included in the half-day kayaking tour?

The tour includes a local guide, bottled water, and brunch after kayaking.

Is vegetarian or vegan food available for brunch?

Yes, vegetarian or vegan options are available if requested when booking.

Will I see seals during the kayak tour?

Yes, you’ll kayak among a large colony of seals living at Pelican Point.

What level of fitness do I need?

A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended for this activity.

If my cruise ship is late can I get a refund?

No refunds are issued if you miss the tour due to late or non-arrival of your cruise ship.

What’s included

Your morning includes guided kayaking among Pelican Point’s seal colony with all equipment provided, bottled water throughout your paddle, and a relaxed brunch served after returning ashore—vegetarian or vegan options are available if you let them know when booking.