Set off on a personalized sailing adventure near Holt and spot playful seals at Blakeney Point. Discover the tranquil beauty of North Norfolk from a boat customized to your preferences and experience the coast like never before.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required
Wildlife
History
Blakeney Harbour has historically been an important fishing port and a strategic point for maritime defense, reflected in the area's historic lighthouses and wartime sites.
Conservation
John Bean Boat Trips emphasizes sustainable tourism by respecting local wildlife habitats and promoting low-impact excursions, helping to maintain Norfolk's coastal ecosystem.
John Bean Boat Trips
Set off on a personalized sailing adventure near Holt and spot playful seals at Blakeney Point. Discover the tranquil beauty of North Norfolk from a boat customized to your preferences and experience the coast like never before.
John Bean Boat Trips is a family-run boat operator specialising in wildlife and charter experiences around Blakeney Point and the Morston salt marshes.
The business offers five core trip types: private charters (one- or two-hour hires), one-hour seal trips, media and photography charters, ash scatterings and educational trips tailored for schools.
The family team brings over 80 years of combined local seafaring and guiding experience, focusing on safe, respectful wildlife encounters and personalised service. Seal trips give visitors close-up opportunities to view both common and grey seals basking at Blakeney Point, accompanied by informative commentary on tides and local ecology.
Private charters let groups set the pace and route, suitable for quiet sails, photography sessions or bespoke wildlife watching. Media and photography charters provide flexible itineraries and vantage points for film crews and photographers operating along the Norfolk coast. Ash scattering voyages are arranged to meet family wishes and legal requirements, providing a private, dignified setting at sea. Educational trips are designed for school groups to observe coastal habitats and tides first-hand, combining learning with outdoor experience.
Safety briefings and experienced guidance are provided on every outing. The company operates from harbours serving Blakeney and Morston and emphasises respect for protected wildlife areas. Prospective visitors are encouraged to contact John Bean Boat Trips directly to discuss trip options, accessibility needs and booking details. Booking information and seasonal availability change; check schedules and reserve early for preferred dates.
Family-run
80+ years
Generations of local expertise
Tours Offered
5 trips
Seal trips, charters, education
Seal Focus
Close-up viewing
Common and grey seals
Trip Lengths
1–2 hours
Private charters and one-hour trips
Secure a spot for seal watching, a photography charter, educational outing or a private commemorative voyage—contact John Bean Boat Trips to discuss dates and arrangements.
Dress for the weather
Layer up and bring waterproofs, as conditions can change quickly at sea.
Bring your camera
Seals and coastal views are photogenic, so have your gear ready to capture the moment.
Book in advance
Private charters are popular; scheduling ahead guarantees your preferred time slot.
Respect wildlife
Keep a safe distance from seals and avoid disturbing their natural habitat.
Warm layered clothing
Layering helps manage variable weather conditions at sea.
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Waterproof jacket
Keeps you dry during choppier or wetter conditions.
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Sun hat and sunglasses
Protects against sun glare during summer trips.
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Binoculars
Enhances wildlife viewing, especially for seals and seabirds.
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