Board a short boat ride from Hobie Beach to Robberg Nature Reserve and swim among Cape Fur Seals in their protected habitat. This guided, family-friendly encounter includes snorkeling gear and in-water guides, plus free photos after the trip.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The bow cuts a glassy channel off Hobie Beach and the air smells of kelp and salt; Cape Fur Seals bark from the rocks as the boat eases toward Robberg’s protected colony. Within 20 minutes the shoreline slips away and a dark, rolling family of seals—curious, agile, unbothered—moves toward the group. Guides brief you, hand over snorkel gear, and slip into the water alongside you: the encounter is up-close, unscripted, and immediate.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; you should be comfortable entering/exiting a small boat and swimming short distances.
Wildlife
History
Robberg has archaeological sites showing Middle Stone Age occupation; the headland later served as a lookout along colonial shipping routes.
Conservation
Robberg Nature Reserve is a marine protected area—respect wildlife distances, avoid littering, and use reef-safe products to minimize impact on the coastal ecosystem.
Reserve your spot on the Seal Swimming Activity in Plettenberg Bay today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive 30 minutes early
Check in at the Hobie Beach office on Meeding Street 30 minutes before departure to get fitted for gear and hear the safety briefing.
Wear a swim layer or wetsuit
Water can be cool year-round; a thin wetsuit or thermal swim layer improves comfort during the 30-minute swim.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Apply biodegradable sunscreen before entering the water—anything else can harm marine life in the reserve.
Listen to the guides
Guides remain in the water and will direct safe approaches—follow their instructions closely around curious seals.
Swimsuit
Basic layer worn under provided wetsuits or on warm days for comfort in the water.
summer
Thin wetsuit or thermal swim layer
Keeps you warm during cooler months and extends time in the water comfortably.
winter
Towel and dry change of clothes
Useful for the post-swim rinse and to stay warm on the ride back to shore.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects your skin while preventing damage to marine ecosystems.