Get up close to playful seals on a one-hour boat trip from Holt with John Bean Boat Trips. Discover the thriving coastal ecosystem and learn about the area’s rich maritime history from experienced guides—an unforgettable wildlife experience waits at Blakeney Point.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels; minimal physical effort required
Wildlife
History
The area has been a significant site for salt production since the medieval period, shaping local livelihoods.
Conservation
Efforts to protect the seal colonies and salt marsh habitats help sustain this vital coastal environment for future generations.
John Bean Boat Trips
Get up close to playful seals on a one-hour boat trip from Holt with John Bean Boat Trips. Discover the thriving coastal ecosystem and learn about the area’s rich maritime history from experienced guides—an unforgettable wildlife experience waits at Blakeney Point.
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
Bring waterproof clothing and layers as conditions can change quickly on the water.
Bring binoculars
Enhance your wildlife viewing with binoculars, especially for spotting seals and birds at a distance.
Arrive early
Arriving beforehand allows you to settle in and enjoy the surrounding marshes before departure.
Respect wildlife
Keep a respectful distance from seals and avoid disturbing their natural behaviors.
Waterproof jacket
Keeps you dry and comfortable during the boat trip, especially in windy or rainy conditions.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Binoculars
Enhances wildlife viewing, allowing you to see seals and birds more clearly.
Sun protection
Sunscreen and hats shield you from sun exposure during longer daylight trips.
summer
Camera
Capture the seals and marsh scenery during your trip.