Seal Viewing at Robberg Nature Reserve, Plettenberg Bay

Over 6000 seals swimming and diving on the rocks at Robberg.

A boat trip from Hobie Beach in Plettenberg Bay takes you to Robberg Nature Reserve to watch a colony of over 6000 Cape Fur Seals in their natural habitat. The 90-minute outing is led by a guide and skipper who point out the seals diving, swimming and sunbathing, including seal pups. Free downloadable photos of the trip are included. Valuables can be left at the kiosk.

The experience

The boat leaves Hobie Beach and crosses Plettenberg Bay's waters to the Robberg Peninsula, where the seal colony lives. You'll watch the animals in an untouched environment: seeing them dash, dive, jump and frolic in the water and on the rocks. The seals are highly sociable with each other and curious about visitors, so you get to observe their behavior up close without disturbing them. Keep an eye out for the seal pups, which tend to draw attention.

Your guide, Ash, and skipper, Chris, narrate the trip and share insights into the seals' lives and habits. The boat ride itself is scenic, crossing the bay before reaching the reserve. Sightings are guaranteed, so if the seals aren't visible for any reason, the operator will work with you on a solution. The whole outing runs 90 minutes from start to finish.

You can leave valuables at the kiosk before boarding, so you don't have to worry about them during the trip. After the outing, you'll receive free downloadable photos of your adventure. Children from age 1 are welcome. Infants can sit on an adult's lap or ride in a pram or stroller. Public transportation options are available near Hobie Beach if you're not driving.

What’s included

• Boat ride from Hobie Beach to Robberg Nature Reserve.
• live guide and experienced skipper.
• guaranteed seal sightings.
• free downloadable photos of the trip.
• use of the kiosk to store valuables.

Before you book

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

AgesAdult (21 to 64 years) · Senior (65 and older) · Youth (12 to 20 years) · Child (6 to 11 years) · Infant (1 to 5 years)

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. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 13 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortStroller-friendlyPublic transport nearbyNot recommended with back problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Plett Seal Adventures

Is this one for you?The 90-minute duration fits a morning or afternoon slot without eating into the rest of your day in Plettenberg Bay, so you can combine it with other activities or beach time on Hobie Beach itself.

Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (12 to 20 years); Child (6 to 11 years); Infant (1 to 5 years).

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.

How many seals are in the colony at Robberg?

The colony holds over 6000 Cape Fur Seals, so there's plenty to observe during the boat ride.

What do the seals do during the trip?

You'll watch them swim, dive, jump and play in the water and sunbathe on the rocks. Seal pups are often visible and tend to be curious about the boat.

How long is the boat ride?

The outing takes 90 minutes total, including the crossing from Hobie Beach to Robberg and the time spent watching the seals.

Can I bring my camera and phone on the boat?

Yes, you can bring cameras and phones. Free downloadable photos of the trip are also provided after the outing, so you'll have images even if you don't photograph everything yourself.