Questions and answers
Everything guests ask before a seal swim, in one place.
Booking and prices
How much does it cost to swim with seals in Plettenberg Bay?
R1 295 per person, or R1 195 per person for 4 or more swimmers in one booking. Seal viewing from the boat is R795. All equipment, the guide and photos are included. Full prices.
How do I book?
Use the booking form to pick a date, a departure and your group, then pay by card at the secure checkout. You can also WhatsApp or call +27 82 829 0809.
How far ahead should I book?
A day or two is usually enough. In the December and Easter holidays, book several days ahead, and longer for groups.
Do children pay the same as adults?
Yes. Each guest needs a full seat on the boat and a full set of kit.
Can I buy a gift voucher?
Yes, for the swim or the viewing trip. See gift vouchers.
The trip
How long does the trip take?
About 1.5 hours from launch to landing, with up to 30 minutes in the water. Arrive 30 minutes early and allow two and a half hours in total.
Where do we meet?
At the Offshore Adventures office in the Central Beach car park, Hopwood Street, Plettenberg Bay, 30 minutes before your departure. Directions.
What times do trips leave?
10:00, 12:00, 14:00 every day, weather and numbers permitting, with an extra early trip in peak season. We are closed on 25 December and 1 January.
What is included?
The boat trip, a guide in the water, wetsuit, mask, snorkel, fins, life jacket, change rooms with warm showers and lockers, and photos of your trip.
What should I bring?
A swimsuit, a towel and something warm for afterwards. Full packing list.
Will we definitely see seals?
Yes. The colony lives at Robberg all year. How close individual seals come in the water is up to them.
Do you take photos?
Yes. Your guide photographs each trip and the photos are included. A custom video is R200.
Who can come
Do I need to be able to swim?
You need to be comfortable floating in the sea. The wetsuit keeps you up, flotation aids are available, and a guide is with you. Weak swimmers are welcome; tell us beforehand.
Have I got to have snorkelled before?
No. The guide shows you how the mask and snorkel work before you get in.
What is the minimum age?
We recommend the swim from age 6 and the viewing trip from age 2. Family guide.
Will you have a wetsuit in my size?
Yes. We carry sizes from small children to XXXL.
I have a disability. Can I take part?
Yes. Contact us before you book so the crew can plan the launch and the swim around you.
Can I come along without swimming?
Yes, on a seal viewing ticket, if there is space on the boat.
Safety and conditions
Is swimming with seals safe?
It is a guided wildlife encounter with sensible precautions, and it is not risk free. Read the safety page for the detail.
Should I worry about sharks?
Sharks visit the colony mainly in winter. Swims pause in June and July, spotters watch from the mountain in May, August and September, and the boat stays with the swimmers.
What about rabies in seals?
Rabies has been confirmed in Cape fur seals along the southern African coast since 2024, including a few cases in Plett. We watch the colony before every swim, keep a guide in the water and have shortened the swims. Any bite or scratch needs washing and same-day medical care. More detail.
What happens in bad weather?
We run in most weather, including rain. Strong easterly wind or swell cancels trips. You are told in advance and can rebook or have a full refund. Policy.
How cold is the water?
Around 17°C in winter and 20°C in midsummer. The wetsuit keeps most people comfortable.
Will I get seasick?
The ride is short, but there is swell at the colony. If you are prone to seasickness, take medication beforehand and keep your eyes on the horizon.
Did we miss yours?
Send the crew a message and you will get an answer from someone who was on the water this week.