Should You Do the Seal Island Boat Trip?

Expect a 40-minute boat ride from Hout Bay out to the small rocky outcrop called Seal Island (sometimes referred to as Duiker Island). You'll see hundreds of Cape fur seals barking, flopping about, and swimming around the boat. The smell is strong once you get close because of the guano, and great white sharks are sometimes spotted in the water, especially during winter when the sardine run brings them closer to shore. It's not a luxurious experience – the boats are working vessels with bench seating, often quite windy and splashy. The trip itself usually lasts about 2.5 hours including travel time.

The best time to go is from December to April when the sea is generally calmer and seasickness is less likely. Avoid going in rough weather; if the skipper cancels, take it as a sign. Expect to pay around R1200–R1800 per person depending on the operator, boat size, and whether they include snacks or just basic transport. It's one of the cheaper marine excursions from Cape Town.

Tip: Choose the smaller, faster rigid inflatable boats if available – they get you closer and give a better view than the big catamarans. Skip combining it with a full harbour cruise unless you really want the extra time on the water; the straight Seal Island trip is sufficient. If you're prone to motion sickness, take medication beforehand or pick a morning slot when the sea is usually flatter.