Plettenberg Bay: Swim with Seals at Robberg Reserve & Snorkel Tour

Snorkel with fur seals in Plettenberg Bay’s wild Robberg waters

You’ll launch straight from Plettenberg Bay’s beach for a wild ride to Robberg Reserve, then snorkel among playful Cape fur seals in their natural home. All equipment is provided, even souvenir photos, so you can focus on laughing through your mask and soaking up every splashy second.

Step-by-step itinerary

Swim with seals at Robberg Marine Reserve

• Beach launch into the sea
• Boat ride to seal colony
• Snorkel with playful fur seals

The experience

The first thing that hit me was the sound: hundreds of Cape fur seals barking like they were arguing about breakfast. We’d just bounced over the waves from Plettenberg Bay, salt spray stinging my cheeks, and suddenly there they were, flopping and sliding around the rocks at Robberg Nature Reserve. I remember the boat launch being a bit more “hold on tight” than I’d expected. Our guide, Jono, grinned and yelled something about “proper South African adventure!” as we shot out past the breakers. My heart was already racing before I even got near the water.

I fumbled a bit with my wetsuit (they had every size under the sun, thankfully) and tried to listen while Jono explained how to use the snorkel mask without fogging it up. The air smelled sharp (seaweed and cold Atlantic), and when I slid into the water, it was colder than I’d braced for. But then one of the seals zipped right past my face, twisting upside down like he was showing off. You could hear them underwater too (little squeaks and clicks) way more curious than I thought they'd be. At one point I laughed so hard my mask filled up. Honestly, swimming with seals is nothing like an aquarium or zoo. It’s chaos and joy all at once.

There were kids in our group (smallest was maybe six?), and they kept shrieking every time a seal popped up close. It felt safe though. The guides kept an eye on everyone, drifting nearby but not hovering. Afterward, back on the boat, someone handed me a hot drink (I think it was rooibos tea?) and we just sat there for a minute watching the colony bark and tumble over each other. The wind picked up and you could smell sunscreen mixed with wet neoprene: oddly comforting now that I think about it.

I still think about that moment floating in green-blue water, sunlight flickering through bubbles while those wild animals darted around us like they owned the place (which… they do). If you’re anywhere near Plettenberg Bay or looking for a day trip with real energy, not just ticking off sights, this swim with seals tour is worth every chilly second.

What’s included

Your day includes a lively beach launch from Plettenberg Bay, all snorkeling equipment (with plenty of wetsuit sizes), expert local guides keeping things safe and fun, plus souvenir photos so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own camera along for those wild seal moments.

Options for this experience

3 options

Swim with seals at 10:00Guide in English · 10:00, 12:00 and 14:00Snorkel among playful fur seals in groups in Plettenberg Bay, on South Africa's Garden Route. No prior experience needed!

Swim with seals at 12:00Guide in English · 10:00, 12:00 and 14:00Snorkel among playful fur seals in groups in Plettenberg Bay, on South Africa's Garden Route. No prior experience needed!

Swim with seals at 14:00Guide in English · 10:00, 12:00 and 14:00Snorkel among playful fur seals in groups in Plettenberg Bay, on South Africa's Garden Route. No prior experience needed!

You'll see the exact price of each option when you check availability.See dates and prices

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 10:00, 12:00 and 14:00

Book up to1h before

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Child (6 to 12 years) · Under 6: can't be booked

GroupUp to 12

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Low physical effortWheelchair accessibleStroller-friendlyPublic transport nearbyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Offshore Adventures

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (6 to 12 years). Children under 6 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

Is previous snorkeling experience required for this swim with seals tour?

No experience is needed. Guides provide instructions and all gear.

Where does the seal snorkeling take place?

The activity happens at Robberg Marine Protected Area near Plettenberg Bay.

Are wetsuits and snorkel gear provided?

Yes, wetsuits in many sizes plus all snorkeling equipment are included.

How long does this swim with seals activity last?

The whole adventure takes about 1.5 hours from start to finish.

Are souvenir photos included in this tour?

Yes, you’ll receive souvenir photos after your seal snorkeling experience.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?

The activity is wheelchair accessible. Check specific needs before booking.

Do I need to bring anything special for this day trip?

No special gear needed. Everything required is supplied by Offshore Adventures.