seal island tour cape town

Seal Island Boat Tour

Join us for an incredible maritime adventure to Seal Island, situated in Hout Bay just outside of Cape Town. Our Seal Island Boat Tour offers a delightful and informative experience that will leave you and your family & friends amazed by the wonders of the Atlantic Ocean.

Hop aboard our boat trip to Seal Island, which lasts approximately 45 minutes. We have daily guaranteed departures at 09:00, 09:45, and 10:30, ensuring convenience for all. On weekends and public holidays, we also offer additional cruises at 12:00 and 13:45. Our vessel Calypso can accommodate up to 100 people, so there’s plenty of space for everyone to enjoy the journey comfortably.

Seal Island Boat Tours with Circe Launches

Unlike other passenger boats in Hout Bay, our vessel Calypso is designed specifically for sightseeing on the water. You’ll find over 150 seats positioned around the boat, providing excellent views for everyone. Whether you’re seated near the bow or the stern, you won’t miss any of the seal action.

During the cruise, our friendly crew will share interesting information about the area and its adorable Cape fur seal residents. You might even catch a glimpse of the playful seals splashing around in their natural habitat from our glass bottom. It’s an experience that’s both entertaining and educational.

While onboard, you can purchase soft drinks and light snacks to keep yourself refreshed. However, feel free to bring your own food and drinks, including alcohol, to make the most of your time with us. We want you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the company of fellow adventurers as we venture out to Seal Island.

Ready for a Seal Island Boat Tour in Cape Town?

Ahoy! Prepare yourself for an exhilarating adventure on a delightful Seal Island Boat Trip in Hout Bay just outside of Cape Town. Make sure to book with us to take full advantage of our glass bottom feature.

More Fun-filled Activities in Hout Bay

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Take advantage of our amazing SPECIAL and get a 60% discount on private charters. Ideal for birthdays, private family cruises, proposals and more.

The Ultimate Ocean Adventure

Explore the mysteries of Hout Bay harbour on a guided kayaking tour & add a fun Seal Island Boat Trip.

Explore The Bay On Water

Choose from sunrise, sunset and private guided kayak tours with your family and friends. Get close to our marine wildlife!

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60 Minute Shipwreck Cruise

R130 per adult r70 per child under 14yrs free 2 years or younger, r110 per adult r60 per child under 14yrs free 2 years or younger, daily: 12h15 | 14h00 | subject to change.

*Minimum 15 Pax

60 Minute Chapmans Peak Cruise

Private Charter

Please contact us for more info.

40 Minute Seal Colony Cruise

60 minute special cruise.

After a visit to the Cape Fur Seals at Duiker Island, you then either visit the shipwreck in Moari Bay, or cross the bay to view the splendorous Chapman’s Peak cliffs.

30 Minute High Speed Eco Tours

Whale watching, about drumbeat charters.

Drumbeat Charters has been operating since 1989 and is based in the famous fishing village of Hout Bay offering daily scenic cruises to one of Cape Town’s main attractions.

While aboard you are surrounded with breath-taking scenery of the famous Chapmans Peak Drive and the Sentinel Mountain.

Drumbeat caters for local and international clients and has information leaflets about the seals available in 26 different languages.

We have a 100% safety record.

In addition to this we:, comply with all samsa (south african maritime safety authority) regulations and our vessel is surveyed annually by samsa to ensure that it is seaworthy, employ competent, qualified skippers, ensure that all our crew are fully trained and competent, carry r20mil public liability and passenger liability cover.

The vessel, Drumbeat II has been purposefully designed and built in Cape Town for the sea and weather conditions off the Cape coast.

The entire vessel is constructed out of marine grade aluminium. She is twenty one meters in length and has two inboard 400 Cummins diesel engines.

Licensed to carry 118 passengers she has 2 toilets on board, a licensed bar and inside and outside seating.

Please note that Drumbeat II is also wheelchair friendly.

Tickets can be purchased on line or at our kiosk when you come to do the cruise.

We accept credit cards, cash and snapscan.

This is an exciting, child friendly 40 minute cruise from Hout Bay harbour to Duiker Island the Seal Colony where you can view thousands of wild Cape Fur Seals, close up in their beautiful natural habitat.

This 1 hour cruise is one of our special signature trips to see the Cape Fur Seals at Duiker Island and then continues below the Kabonkelberg mountain range to Moari Bay notoriously known for its Shipwrecks.

This is a 1 hour cruise which leaves from Hout Bay harbour to Duiker Island to view the Cape Fur Seals. From there the boat will cross the bay and travel back to the harbour along the cliffs and caves of Chapmans Peak.

This cruise is for the adventurous. Our boat is safe, but built for speed and will ride the waves as fast as you can handle it. The route is determined on the day but is sure to include a visit to Duiker Island, and include some breath taking scenery in the surrounding area. this trip s fun and spends time in the beautiful bay of Hout Bay. An abundance of sea life is often seen on the tour including Seals, Dolphins, Sunfish and various sea birds.

Come cruise with us on a wondrous  ocean safari.

Cell: 082 658 7055  Email: [email protected]

Hout Bay Harbour GPS Co -Ordinates: Latitude: -34.049041 Longitude: 18.3463098

Take to the sea and visit Duiker Island near the spectacular coastline of Hout Bay with Circe Launches "Seal Island" trips! See thousands of Cape fur seals sunbake and play on the perfect experience for the whole family

TOUR START TIMES

• 09h00 - 09H45 - 10H30 - 15H00

TOUR END TIME

• 45 Minutes After Start Time

TOUR START/END POINT

• Circe Launches Kiosk - Hout Bay
• A Ticket onto Calypso a glass bottomed boat bound for Seal Island in Hout Bay

NOT INCLUDED

• Refreshments
• Gratuities To Guides

More About Hout Bay

• Hout Bay was originally inhabited by the Khoi people, who called it "Houtkraal" or "Wooden Kraal". The Dutch arrived in the area in the 1650s and renamed it "Hout Bay". The area was used for timber production and fishing, and a small settlement grew up around the harbour. In the 19th century, the area became a popular tourist destination, and the town of Hout Bay was officially founded in 1867. Today, Hout Bay is a thriving town with a population of over 17,000 people. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and its fresh seafood. The town is also home to a number of schools, businesses, and community organizations.

Please select a date

Our standard kayak tours commence at 9 am, and we conduct them every two hours. All groups are paired with an experienced and friendly tour guide. Your tour guide has several certifications, including medical first aid and personal survival techniques. All excursions begin with a brief introduction by your tour guide. Then they will help you get acquainted with the basics of kayaking, which is especially necessary if you’re new to this activity. The introduction includes a safety demonstration to ensure all guests have a safe and comfortable tour. You’ll also be fitted with a life jacket. Once you hit the water, your tour guide will lead the group to different checkpoints. You’ll get a tour of the harbour, during which your tour guide will enlighten you with their vast knowledge.

AVAILABLE TOURS

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Seal Island Boat Trip - Circe Launches

Seal Island Boat Trip is available at the first stop of our Cape Point Private Tour.  Join a boat cruise to Duiker Island otherwise known as Seal Island to see thousands of Cape Fur Seals in their natural environment.

Seal Island Boat Trip - With Circe Launchers

CIRCE LAUNCHES, is the original 'SEAL ISLAND' (Duiker Island) Cruise operators from Hout Bay Harbour, was established in 1973.

Their vessel m.v. CALYPSO, operates departures to the Cape Fur Seal Colony at Duiker Island, commonly known as 'Seal Island'.

Seal Island Boat Trip - Glass Bottomed Boat

CALYPSO is the only true, GLASS BOTTOMED Passenger vessel, in South Africa. She has two viewing ports in the base of her hull, in the aft cabin, through which our passengers can see the seabed and sea life, around the Island, during good visibility and have close up views of the Cape Fur Seals, on the Island, from her decks.

Our cruises offer magnificent views of Chapman's Peak, the Sentinel Mountain, Hout Bay and the closest sightings of the Cape Fur Seals, in their natural habitat.

Our professional and experienced crew will ensure that your cruise with us will be a memorable one.

Seal Island Boat Trip - Departure Times

Departing 7 days a week 09:00 - 09:45 - 12:00 & 15:00

If you would like to take this boat trip, you might like to consider booking a Cape Point Tour, this is the first stop of the tour and the option is offered to guests to view the Habrour for 45Mins or Take the Boat Ride, Click for Details!

History of Seal Island, False Bay

Seal island.

The natural and un-natural history of Seal Island in False Bay, Cape Town

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Looking for a seal island cape town tour, book a boat charter with oceans africa.

Seal Island in False Bay is wild, remote and spectacular. Not to be mistaken for Duiker Island near Hout Bay, Seal Island in False Bay is accessed by boat from Simonstown or Kalk Bay on Cape Town’s Southern Peninsular. Explore this magnificent bay and join us on our boat Sea Otter for an exclusive, private charter to the real Seal Island Cape Town!

Seal Island False Bay

History of seals on seal island.

Seal Island in False Bay has a rich natural and human history that is closely tied to the populations of seals and birds that inhabit the island.

The hunting of seals on the island in False Bay dates back to the 1600’s when seals were slaughtered by visiting sailors and settlers for their skins, meat and oil. 

Hunting pressures increased over the years and populations began to decline rapidly.  By the late 1800’s, Cape fur seals had been completely eradicated from 23 of the island colonies around our coastline. 

Guano mining activities also impacted heavily on seal populations. Guano (accumulated bird droppings) was highly valued as fertilizer and was collected in large quantities from the same areas used by seals.

The Fernandez Guano Operation held the concession to collect Guano from Seal Island in False Bay as operations between the island and Kalk Bay continued up until WWII when the Navy erected a radar tower and the island became out-of -bounds.

Although there is very little data available on seal populations at this time it is believed there were very few seals, if any, remaining on the island in False Bay by the beginning of WWII.

Seal Island Cape Town Boat Trip

Seal island charter.

Exclusive private boat charter in False Bay to Seal Island Cape Town. Book this amazing marine tour with Oceans Africa. 

Cape Fur Seal Colony

Current seal populations on seal island.

In 1893 the government of the Cape Colony gave seals their first legal protection in southern Africa, when sealing without a permit was prohibited. Seals were however, still commercially hunted in South Africa until as recently as 1990.

Despite their continued exploitation, the seal population at the island has steadily increased from the war years until the present, with current population estimates in excess of 70 000 seals during the pupping season.

Seal Island False Bay now supports the largest breeding colony of Cape Fur Seals in the Western Cape. 

Between 12,000 and 18,000 seal pups are born born on the island each year (Kirkman et al. 2007) and visitors during this time are treated to an amazing wildlife spectacle – an island teeming with new life, noise and bustle!

Sharks at Seal Island

Great white sharks at seal island.

With the increase in seal numbers came in increase in shark activity and specifically that of the Great White Shark .

Although great white sharks have been recorded in the Simonstown area by the earliest settlers, it was only in the 1980’s that presence of large sharks around the island became common knowledge and stories of sharks jumping out of the water (and even into boats) started circulating.

In the early ’90’s Chris Fallows and Rob Lawrence became the pioneers of shark viewing tourism at Seal Island. They were the first people to bring images of the now famous breaching white sharks, and the phenomenon of ‘Air Jaws’ to the world.

For over 20 years the island enjoyed infamy as supporting some of the highest densities of white sharks in the world and the global sensation of being one of the few places in the world where great white sharks could regularly be seen predating on seals.

Every year as the latest pups ventured off the island for the first time, scores of photographers and filmmakers would descend on Simonstown in the hope of witnessing an apex predator predation event.

A Photographers Dream

Shark viewing tourism at seal island.

It could be said that the sharks at Seal Island bore witness to the transition from film to digital photography, as every year improvements in camera technology brought higher megapixels, faster lenses, greater memory capacity and more photographers to the island in False Bay.

Better images and more spectacular footage was coming from the island each year, feeding the insatiable appetite of social media and reality tv – the addiction was real!

In August 2013 I captured an image of a breaching white shark with the camera on my Blackberry mobile phone, something I could never have dreamed possible even a few years previously.

As I took the shot, a cheer rose up from the BBC boat nearby as they captured the same breach in high-speed HD – footage that can be seen in their documentary ‘Shark’, released in 2015.

That year we were seeing as many as 30 shark on seal predation events in a single morning. Little did we know it was one of the last few good years of great white shark activity around the island in False Bay.

Orca predations on Sharks

Orca predations at seal island.

Orca predations on sevengil cow sharks in 2015 and 2016 eventually led to the departure of cow sharks from the Millers Point aggregation site.

At the same time as these events, the white sharks would leave Seal Island and it was clear at the time that there must be a connection.

Then in 2017 we had the first concrete evidence that orcas were targeting great white sharks in False Bay and Gandbaai, when five white shark carcasses  washed up between Franskraal and Struisbaai between 7 February and 24 June in 2017.

Sadly orca predations have continued to put pressure on the white shark and cow shark populations and now it seems the white sharks are reluctant to return to Seal Island False Bay.

For the cage diving industry it has been a very difficult time. Fortunately the industry has been able to adapt and the operators  continue to work in the area with cow sharks and bronze whalers, which appear to be filling the ecological niche left by the Great White Shark

Birdlife of Seal Island

The birds of seal island false bay.

Seal Island False Bay also supports a wide diversity of bird-life. The island is a fantastic place for anyone interested in sea-birds.

 The naturalist Henry Moseley who visited the Cape on HMS Challenger in 1873 made an interesting reference to the birdlife of Seal Island:

  “… It is a mere shelving rock, on which it is only possible to land on very favourable occasions. The whole place is a rookery of the Jackass Penguin”.

Today cormorants are the most abundant birds on the island, with several species using the island to roost and nest. Black oystercatchers may also be seen foraging along the tidal fringes and mussel beds, while many species of tern work the surrounding waters.

African penguins are still regularly seen on the island and seem to move freely through the hoards of seals, however their numbers appear to be reduced to only a few breeding pairs in recent years.

Seal pupping season also brings the scavengers and the island is a great place to see giant petrels as well as their tiny cousins, the storm petrels, that skim and flit above the waves. 

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This text on the history of seal island in False Bay is a work in progress and has been compiled from several different sources, personal observations and anecdotes. It is intended to serve as a popular guide only. While every effort has been made to keep the information accurate and updated, it should not be seen in any way as a scientific text or used as a research reference.

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Seal Island - Cape Town

Seal Island, also known as Duiker Island, is one of Cape Town’s most popular attractions, well loved by locals and foreigners alike.

You must have surely heard of the world famous flying white sharks, the ‘Air Jaws’? Well, those absolutely awe-inspiring videos were shot here!

It is a small, long rocky islet of 800 meters’ length and 50 meters’ width and no more than about 7 meters above the high tide mark, situated 5.7 km off the northern beaches of False Bay.

Boat trips and cruises are offered to observe the marine animals in their resplendent glory. The influx of visitors during the summer months (October to February) is only a simple illustration of the island’s appeal.

However, please note: it is illegal to actually go onto the island—this explains how it has preserved its spotless natural charm, as no man is allowed to walk on it!

In and Around Seal Island

As the name suggests, Seal Island is an island of seals. It inhabits a population of approximately 70 000 Cape fur seals.

Besides, some 24 different species of birds can be found on the island. Among them, there are some 200 kelp gulls and small groups of Cape and white-breasted cormorants. If you are lucky, you might spot a few Sub Antarctic skuas and jackass penguins.

Water temperature off Seal Island varies very little, between 13 and 14 degrees Celsius, throughout the year. The predominant winds are north westerly from March to September; they change to south easterly from October to February.

The shallow waters just surrounding the island are home to large shoals of southern mullet (a ray-finned fish) and red roman (the ‘golden-eyed broad head).

All year round, you can often spot dolphins, bryde’s whales and humpback whales.

From July to November, you are more likely to encounter the southern right whales as they tend to be plentiful during this period. Common and Dusky dolphins are often followed by large flocks of Cape gannets, the large white and black sea birds with their peculiar yellow heads.

Vegetation or usable soil is scarce, which explains why mostly marine animals inhabit the island. However, you can also find the ruins of a few huts, a radar mast and other structures as well as rock inscriptions of the 1900 – 1950s. These testify that humans were once present on this isolated island.

The Cape Fur Seal

The Cape fur seal, also known as the brown fur seal, is the largest and most robust fur seal. It is a species of the pinnipeds (fin-footed mammals).

Cape fur seals look much like giant snails from far. However, they have external ear flaps, foreflipppers covered with sparse hair, short hindflippers, and long whiskers. Males of the African subspecies have an average length of about 2.3 meters (7.5 ft) and can weigh from 200 to 300 kilograms (440 – 660 lbs), while the smaller females average to 1.8 meters (5.9 ft) and 120 kilograms (260 lbs).

Besides their difference in sizes, you can also single out the genders based on their respective colors. The adult males are dark gray to brown in color while the adult females are light brown to gray.

Seals are gregarious animals. They move in large groups to give birth and breed. The primary breeding season for the Cape Fur seal is November and December. Almost 20 000 pups are born every year.

The southern fur seals feed on moderately sized fish, squid and krill, and also sea birds, particularly penguins.

These sea mammals have an enticing ability to move on all fours and they can dive over 400 meters. Watching them walk and play might bring back sweet lively memories of your childhood!

The Cape fur seal is a protected animal since 1973 by the Sea Birds and Seal Protection Act: thereby, only the state has been allowed to kill seals at specific colonies.

The biggest predator of the Cape fur seal is the great white shark. Such a large group of seals certainly attracts those white sharks around Seal Island, which is how the ‘Air Jaws’, the famous videos of studies of the great white sharks attacks on seals, could be made.

Great White Sharks at Seal Island

The surrounding sea is one that boasts the legendary ‘with great beauty comes great danger’.

It might surely be tempting to bathe in, but the seemingly calm and dark turquoise blue waters are not one in which to wander. The main predator of the fur seal is known to be the most dangerous shark in the sea. Hence, Seal Island is the hunting ground of this monstrous feeder – The Great White Sharks.

Due to this predominant presence of seals and sharks, Seal Island is the only venue in the world that can offer a complete encounter with the dreary white shark, be it natural predation, breaching or cage diving. It is the place to be, if what you want is an as-lively-as-possible experience with the great white shark in its intimate environment.

Predation is an interaction between species in which one species (the white shark) uses another species (the seals) as food while breaching is one of the hunting techniques of the great white sharks. It propels itself right out of the water, exploding with energy, in an attempt to surprise its prey with a forceful attack. Cage diving, on the contrary, is about being underwater with the sharks, rather than watching them from aboard a sea vessel. You can dive into the water protected inside a cage and watch the great white sharks from very close.

The great white sharks are extremely active during the winter months, mostly from April to August while September lies between the high and intermediate season for breaching and predation of the sharks.

The centre of attraction of Seal Island is, indeed, the breathtaking predator-prey interaction between white sharks and Cape fur seals. As you watch in awe the sharks that literally fly hunting for their prey, you will soon conclude that they are indeed the Kings of the oceans.

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Expect breath-taking views of the famous Chapman’s Peak Drive and the Sentinel Mountain. This is an exciting, child friendly 40 minute cruise from Hout Bay harbour to Duiker Island the Seal Colony where you can view thousands of wild Cape Fur Seals, close up in their beautiful natural habitat.

Daily - Subject to weather This ticket is valid for single entry for 14 days after the chosen date

Hout Bay harbour - near our stop No 24

09H15 / 10H00 / 12h00 / 14h00 / 15h15* (* = subject to minimum 15 passengers)

Cruise, Seal viewing

Please see the MEGA PASS

• See thousands of Cape fur seals at the foot of the spectacular Sentinel Mountain
• Family boat cruise around picturesque Hout Bay
• You might also encounter some dolphins and whales

Description

Join a thrilling boat cruise to Duiker Island to see thousands of Cape fur seals in their natural environment. Along the way, take in some of the most spectacular scenery the Cape Peninsula has to offer as you cruise along the rugged coastline from Hout Bay harbour. Expect breath-taking views of the famous Chapman’s Peak Drive and the Sentinel Mountain, in addition to the chance to see other marine life including dolphins and whales.

Drumbeat charters have been cruising the Cape coast since 1989. Their Seal Colony Cruise boat has been specially designed to handle the unique weather conditions of the Cape waters. It’s most-frequented destination is Duiker Island, renowned for its Cape fur seal population and birdlife.

+27 21 511 6000 [email protected]

36 Auckland Street, Paarden Eiland, Cape Town, 7420

Copyright © City Sightseeing South Africa 2024

Seal Island Cruise

The seal island cruise to Duiker Island departs from Hout Bay harbour as per the times below. These times may change depending on the season and the weather.

Nauticat requires a minimum of 20 people to go out on a trip so it is advisable to call the day before to confirm your booking.

The Nauticat is the largest of the boats that do this cruise and being a catamaran, it means that it is also the most stable.

Departure times:

Duration: 45 minutes

Cost: R 140.00 per adult and R 70.00 per child younger than 12.

• Whale Watching Safari (Incl. Seal Island)
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Seal Island Family and Tourist Cruise

Come see and learn more about our Seal Colony and the abundant marine life, on and around ‘their’ island just off the Mossel Bay Coastline. The perfect adventure for those who want to experience the ocean, marine life, and the thrill of a speed boat ride

Book Seal Island Family Trip

Come see and learn more about our Cape Fur Seal Colony and the abundant marine life, on ‘their’ island just off the Mossel Bay Coastline.  With guided commentary from your Skipper, experience ecosystem interactions for yourself between the seals, sea birds, and sharks in what is known to be the ‘hunting ground of the great white shark’ during certain months of the year.. You may even see whales or dolphins if you’re lucky. 

Our Tour starts at our Booking office, on Quay 4, at the Mossel Bay Harbor Waterfront. Upon arrival we’ll quickly process you, issue you with a life jacket, and escort you to the pier. Once you have boarded our speedboat, Fearless, you will be given a full safety briefing by one of our professional skippers. We then start making our way towards Seal Island and back - the trip takes about 20 - 30 min.

Enjoy the vastness of the deep blue Indian Ocean en-route and back, spectacular views of the Garden Route coastline with the Outeniqua Mountain range as a backdrop. And depending on the guest's preferences we can go full throttle, at high speed, back to the pier, to end the tour on an adrenaline-filled high point.

Bring your camera or phone along (just keep it safe) to capture the perfect nature shot!

This adventure is perfect for those who want to experience the ocean, marine life, and the thrill of a speed boat ride.

Duration: 20 - 30min

Start Location: Mossel Bay Boat Adventures - Mossel Bay Harbor

End Location: Mossel Bay Boat Adventures - Mossel Bay Harbor

Departure Times: See our booking system for time schedule.

• Close Encounter with Marine Life and Seal Colony

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Seal Island Boat Trip

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Seal Island in Hout Bay, South Africa, is an iconic destination renowned for its abundant wildlife, dramatic scenery, and thrilling boat tours. Located just off the coast of Cape Town, this rocky outcrop is home to thousands of Cape fur seals, making it a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Stretching approximately 800 meters in length, Seal Island rises sharply from the icy waters of the Atlantic Ocean, forming a stark contrast against the surrounding azure sea. Its rugged terrain and towering cliffs provide a sanctuary for the resident seals, who bask in the sun, playfully frolic in the waves, and occasionally venture into the water in search of food.

The island’s main attraction is undoubtedly its thriving seal colony, which numbers in the tens of thousands during peak breeding season. Visitors can witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, observing their behavior from the comfort of specially designed tour boats. From playful pups to massive bull seals, the island is teeming with life, offering a unique opportunity to observe these marine mammals up close.

One of the most popular activities at Seal Island is the guided boat tours that depart from Hout Bay Harbor. These excursions typically last around 45 minutes to an hour and provide an unforgettable experience as visitors cruise alongside the island, marveling at the sheer abundance of seals and the breathtaking coastal scenery. Knowledgeable guides offer insights into the island’s ecology, wildlife, and conservation efforts, enriching the experience with fascinating facts and anecdotes.

In addition to seals, Seal Island is also a haven for birdlife, with numerous species of seabirds nesting on its cliffs and swooping overhead. From graceful gannets to majestic cormorants, the island offers ample opportunities for birdwatching enthusiasts to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Beyond its wildlife, Seal Island is steeped in history and folklore. Legend has it that the island was once inhabited by a colony of Cape fur seals that were cursed by a local witch, transforming them into the creatures we see today. While the truth behind these tales remains shrouded in mystery, they add an air of mystique to the island’s allure. 

In conclusion, Seal Island in Hout Bay is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and adventure. Whether you’re seeking an exhilarating boat tour, a chance to observe seals in their natural habitat, or simply wish to immerse yourself in the stunning coastal scenery, Seal Island promises an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

FACTS ABOUT SEAL ISLAND HOUT BAY

• Seal Population: Seal Island is home to one of the largest colonies of Cape fur seals in the world. During peak breeding season, which typically occurs from September to November, the island’s population can swell to tens of thousands. These seals gather on the rocky outcrop to mate, give birth, and rear their young, creating a bustling hub of activity that is a sight to behold.
• Predator-Prey Dynamics: One of the most remarkable aspects of Seal Island is its role in the predator-prey dynamics of the marine ecosystem. The island serves as a vital hunting ground for great white sharks, who prey on the seals as they enter and exit the water. The seals’ frenetic movements and acrobatic escapes make for thrilling spectacles as they attempt to evade the sharks’ stealthy attacks.
• Breeding Behavior: Seal Island provides a fascinating glimpse into the breeding behavior of Cape fur seals. Female seals typically give birth to a single pup each year, usually on the rocky shores of the island. After a gestation period of around nine months, the pups are born with a thick black coat, which gradually molts to reveal the characteristic light brown fur of adult seals.
• Birdlife Sanctuary: In addition to its resident seal population, Seal Island is also a haven for a variety of bird species. The towering cliffs and rocky crevices provide nesting sites for seabirds such as gannets, cormorants, and terns. These birds can be seen soaring overhead or perched on the cliffs, adding to the island’s rich biodiversity and offering ample opportunities for birdwatching enthusiasts.
• Historical Significance: Seal Island holds historical significance dating back centuries. The indigenous Khoikhoi people were among the first to inhabit the area, relying on its abundant marine resources for sustenance. Later, European explorers and settlers also recognized the island’s strategic importance, with early navigators often using it as a landmark. Today, Seal Island continues to capture the imagination of visitors, drawing them with its natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and rich maritime history.

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Duiker Island

Welcome to duiker island cape town near hout bay.

Duiker Island or Duikereiland is known as Seal Island by top South African marine and safari tour operators is an Island off Hout Bay ( Bay of Wood) not far away from Cape Town city center. It is 77 by 95 meters in size, with an area of about 0.4 hectares

The island is renowned for its marine wildlife, including the Cape fur seals and marine bird species such as the common cormorants and kelp gulls. It is visited regularly by tourists and photographers by boat via Hout Bay harbor for short trips of a maximum time of up to 60 minutes. The outside souvenir market offers a variety of art and crafts for souvenirs and prices are affordable as compared to the well-established shops at V&A Waterfront.

The boat ride to Duiker Island is conducted by some top Cape Town tour operators in modern boats. Hout Bay offers some best viewing points of the famous scenic route Chapman's peak, long beach, Nordhooek as well as the Cape Peninsula. The boat trips to the seal island are very educational for families travelling with children, seniors and couples. The boat rides have become attractions not to be missed on a tour to the cape of good hope. 

Where To Go?

The popular tourist destination is obviously the boat trip to Duiker Island, beach overlooking Mariner's Wharf, a popular Restaurant for taking away and sit in specializing in kinds of seafood. The best fish and chips are cooked here. Lots of souvenir shops and a busy outside market. locals come here to buy fresh fish daily.

When to Go?

The best time to visit Duiker Island is between January to April and from September to December. The Winter months May to August are cold and with rain.

Best Time to Go: Best: Good:

Highlights:.

• Boat trip to Seal Island
• Fresh fish and chips at Mariner's Wharf
• One of the best fish market in Cape Cape Town
• Open Souvenir Market ideal for bargaining
• Safe beach for children overlooking Mariner's Wharf

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How to Visit Seal Island in Cape Town – 3 Best Ways!

Last Updated on May 3, 2024 by thecapetownblog

There’s an abundance of adorable fur seals in Cape Town and I always love to spot them swimming around the Waterfront, but did you know that there’s also a Seal Island in Hout Bay? I’ve lived in Cape Town since 2021 and I’ve never seen as many seals as I did when I visited Seal Island. It was incredible! 

So if you’re hoping to visit Seal Island while you’re in Cape Town, you might be wondering what the best way to get there is. There are three different options and while I definitely have my favourite, the best one for you might be different. So whether you’re sticking to a tight budget, travelling with kids, or want to get as close to the seals as possible, I’m going to take you through the best ways to visit Seal Island. 

About Seal Island 

Seal Island is officially named Duiker Island, and it’s actually more of a rock than an island, since it only measures 77 x 95 metres. Humans aren’t allowed on its surface but you can get pretty close by boat! 

The island is just off the coast of Hout Bay, which is Cape Town’s beautiful seaside suburb. It’s about a 30-minute drive from the city centre to Hout Bay Harbour, which is where boats to Seal Island leave from. I love driving via Camps Bay as the views are absolutely gorgeous. 

1. Seal Snorkelling – My Top Choice! 

I had an incredible experience snorkelling with seals in Hout Bay . The seals swam right up close to me, and I saw more than I can count. They’re so graceful underwater, too, so seeing them twirl around was really wonderful.

Another thing that impressed me was how respectfully the tour operates. It’s all about observing without disturbing, so that it doesn’t interfere with the seals or their habitat. Clemen was a great guide, too, and taught me a lot about the seals and had a real sixth sense when it came to knowing exactly where they were. 

We got an hour in the water and then hot chocolate and cookies on the way back to the shore, which was very welcome! I paid R950 and it was worth every penny. I also rented a GoPro on the day for R500 and an SD card for R450, and then lost the card, so that was a waste of money but it was no-one’s fault but my own! This was one of the best things that I have ever done in Cape Town, but if you want more details then feel free to check out my in-depth review .  

Click here to book your spot, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance! 

2. Boat Trip – Best Budget Option

If you’re on a budget, you can take this boat trip to Seal Island for just R110! You can view the seals right up close while staying warm and dry on the boat. I think that this is ideal for families, especially with kids under 10, as they are too young to snorkel with the seals but will love seeing them from the boat. 

Hout Bay is also super beautiful, so cruising around the area is such a pleasure. There are also a few different options on offer. You can do the 40-minute cruise and just focus on the seals, or do an hour-long ride to Chapman’s Peak and see the caves around there. If you like history, you can also sail around Maori Bay and learn about all of the shipwrecks here. 

3. Kayaking – Best for Seeing a Variety of Wildlife

I think that this 2-hour kayaking tour is one of the best in Cape Town, as well as one of the cheapest at R450. Kayaking around Seal Island is so much fun and these curious little guys (or not so little guys, as the case may be) are more than likely to come right up to you and say hello. And even if they don’t, you’ll see tons of them around, swimming in the water and basking on the island. 

It’s also a good one to do if you’re prone to seasickness, as the water around Hout Bay is pretty calm. I felt quite ill when I went kayaking in Sea Point, but I’ve never needed my tablets in Hout Bay. I also think this tour is great because it’s run by the same company that I went snorkelling with, and I only have great things to say about them! 

Click here to book your spot, with free cancellation!

How to get to Hout Bay

None of the above tours include transport, so you’ll need to get yourself to Hout Bay. I think the best way to do this is to drive, as it’s best to hire a car here. I use Discover Cars to find the best rentals, but if you’re unsure about whether to rent a car, these articles about driving in Cape Town and hiring a car might prove helpful.

And if you already know you don’t want to hire a car, then you can call an Uber to Hout Bay. Prices start at around R170 each way for an Uber Go, although that can go way up during a surge.

Thanks so much for reading this blog! I absolutely loved my seal encounter in Cape Town and I hope that you find it as incredible as I did. And if you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out the following articles:

• Aquila Safari Review – the Closest Safari to Cape Town! 
• Shark Cage Diving – Is It Worth It?
• Cape Point and Cape of Good Hope Review (with Penguins!)

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How to Spend a Perfect Weekend in Bermuda

T hough it resides only 650 miles off the North Carolina coastal town of Cape Hatteras, Bermuda feels like a magical, faraway destination that transports you to a unique locale reflective of its spectacular tropical landscape and centuries of African, British, Canadian, Caribbean, and Continental European influences. The island was founded as a permanent British settlement in 1609 and quickly became a central hub for transatlantic commerce, which sparked a movement of furniture making that still holds strong to this day. Savvy design aficionados have long been flocking to this island gem to find stunning British colonial antiques, oil paintings by local artists, and striking artifacts from a range of periods and styles.

We enlisted the help of Sarah Bray-West, founder of Sarah Bray Bermuda (and a former VERANDA editor!), to guide us in our quest for the best spots to stay, shop, sip, and savor the best that the island has to offer.

Where to Stay in Bermuda

For those looking to stay away from the busy harborfront of Hamilton, there's no better place than the St. Regis Bermuda in St. George's. It's the most relaxing home away from home where hotel staff welcome you with a drink in hand as you take in the views of azure water seen right from the lobby. Each of the 120 rooms comes with a private balcony offering either views of the ocean or of the neighboring forts, as well as a full bathtub and luxury toiletries.

Enjoy rum swizzles on St. Catherine’s Beach or while lounging by one of the property's two infinity pools before heading off for a collagen face mask or full body massage in the spa. Golf enthusiasts will marvel at the views from the resort's golf course, which is surrounded by the five neighboring forts, including the largest and most celebrated in Bermuda, Fort St. Catherine. For loyalists of the St. Regis, you'll find familiar rituals such as the brand's signature afternoon tea, nightly sabrage, and a signature Bloody Mary made with local Goslings Black Seal Rum.

Where to Shop in Bermuda

You'll want to divide and conquer during your stay in order to explore all of the best shopping the island has to offer. St. George's, home of Bermuda's original settlement and the first capital city of the island, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to some excellent shops. A visit to the Lili Bermuda Perfumery is a must, and Bray-West suggests booking a tour that includes afternoon tea in the perfumery's gardens for the ultimate experience. You can even book a workshop at the perfumery, where you make your signature fragrance that will always remind you of this one-of-a-kind island destination.

When visiting St. George's, be sure to visit Long Story Short , which specializes in gifts and books that showcase the works of Black and female authors, artisans, and entrepreneurs. The owner, Kristin White , is a well-known historian and offers exclusive tours of St. George's, sharing the town's 400-year-old history.

The colorful neighborhood of Southampton is home to Tuck Shop , which Bray-West deems "the most thoughtful general store on the island." Here, you'll find not only exceptional womenswear and children's clothes but also a charming bakery and coffee shop that uses local produce and goods.

The capital city of Hamilton is a must-visit for enthusiasts of all kinds. Book lovers will enjoy perusing the nearly century-old Bermuda Bookstore that stocks the best authors from the U.S., U.K., and Bermuda. The Island Shop is just the ticket for handmade home goods and gifts while Hilgroves is Bray-West's favorite stop for "truly unique antique treasures." And don't forget to stop into Della Valle for custom leather sandals made with Italian craft traditions that'll feel like a trip to Florence.

Where to Eat and Drink in Bermuda

You'll want to savor the culinary experiences offered by the St. Regis. For breakfast and lunch, you can enjoy fresh dishes made from local ingredients at the resort's Latin-inspired restaurant, Lina . At night, the restaurant transforms into BLT Steak NY , which offers a variety of decadent steak dishes as well as lighter seafood options. If you're in the mood for a nightcap, head up to the St. Regis Bar for a dark and stormy or an old-fashioned. The bar also serves sushi for those looking for a lighter option.

Sul Verde is located at the Tucker's Point Golf Club and its cuisine is inspired by the culinary traditions of Southern Italy. You'll find the best pizza on the island as well as fresh pastas and a fabulous cocktail list.

If you're looking to venture out, Bray-West's favorite restaurant on the island is Huckleberry . Located in a grand historic home in Pembroke, the restaurant offers an exemplary take on Bermudian fine dining, showcasing the best local ingredients that the island has to offer. Plus, literary aficionados will love that its namesake is a tribute Mark Twain, who famously visited the island eight times and helped expand its reputation as a travel destination in the late 19th century.

1609 , located at the Bermudian pink Hamilton Princess hotel at the center of town, offers a fantastic dining experience inspired by Central and South American cuisines (and boasts incredible panoramic ocean views). It's the perfect place to celebrate a successful day of antiques hunting—just be sure to make a reservation.

A new addition to the St. George's area, Achilles blends Mediterranean and Asian flavors in their seasonal seafood dishes and full bar menu. Plus, the restaurant offers sunset views of the picturesque Achilles Bay and Fort St. Catherine.

Bray-West says the best way to enjoy Bermuda is by boat and says Bermuda Electric Boat Company offers precious pastel pink boats that are very user-friendly and a great way to explore the island. She advises stopping by Miles Market to pick up all the provisions you'll need for a fabulous picnic lunch before navigating the waters until you find your ideal private beach paradise. Her pick for a perfect picnic spot is Cooper's Beach for its beauty and remoteness.

Other Places to Get Inspired

If you haven't had enough cultural and creative stimulation, Bermuda is an excellent place for art and architecture enthusiasts. Your first stop should be the Bermuda National Gallery , which will help give more context to the island's unique culture as well. What was once a small gallery of 18 European paintings gifted to the people of Bermuda has blossomed into a spectacular hub of pieces from around the globe, including the island's most talented creatives. The Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art is another excellent destination, overlooking the Bermuda Botanical Gardens, and makes for a perfect afternoon itinerary, according to Bray-West.

If it's more modern art you're looking for, the Hamilton Princess offers art tours each Saturday morning, hosted by Lisa Howie, the former director of the Bermuda National Gallery. The Green family, who owns the hotel, has a stunning range of original pieces thoughtfully peppered throughout the hotel, from Andy Warhol's Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom in the lobby to sculptures by KAWS and Yayoi Kusama in the courtyard, not to mention pieces by David Hockney, Rene Magritte, and even Banksy.