Dover Sea Safari
Dover Sea Safari
5
Boat Tours • Sightseeing Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours
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12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Monday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Tuesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Wednesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Thursday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Friday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Saturday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Sunday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Full view
About
Ahoy!...our fantastic scheduled trips operate everyday during July and August, as well as school holidays. A packed weekend only schedule operates outside of these times. Closed season is November thru to Easter. Step aboard one of our awesome boats for a fun filled and incredibly unique coastal experience. Our purpose built RIB boats are designed and built for the job of getting you out to sea in an incredibly exciting and safe way. Departing the Port of Dover, we venture out towards the White Cliffs of Dover on each of our type of trips. Be it the iconic and beautiful White Cliffs Kent coastline, fascinating seals or the eery Goodwin Sands. All of these locations, combined with the exhilarating sense of being so close to the water results in an experience you'll forever remember. 1.5hrs White Cliffs & Beyond | 2hr Secret Seal Safari | 3hr Goodwin Sands | Private Charter to go wherever you like! We have something to thrill everyone.
Dover, Kent, England
Awards
Travelers' Choice
2023
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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5.0
748 reviews
Excellent
707
Very good
27
Average
2
Poor
2
Terrible
10
Eleanor
1 contribution
Sep 2021 • Solo
Having only heard about the various trips Dover Sea Safari offer through friends and family I snapped up the opportunity to go on the seals trip very last minute with absolutely zero regrets! The journey to the seals was simply breathtaking as we travelled along the east Kent coast, taking in the views of The White Cliffs, Kingsdown & Deal. Upon arrival to the mouth of the River Stour I was shocked at quite how many seals were there, how close we got and how unphased they were by us and other boats passing by! A very surreal experience so close to home. James was a brilliant host/guide who gave lots on information throughout the 2 hour trip.
A 10/10 would recommend trip that I’ll never forget. Very keen to give the sands trip a go now!
A 10/10 would recommend trip that I’ll never forget. Very keen to give the sands trip a go now!
Written September 28, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you very much. Sally :)
Written July 31, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Roger S
Rochester, England, United Kingdom19 contributions
Jul 2020 • Friends
This review is based on two experiences on this sea safari, both on the Wet Wheels wheelchair accessible craft. For wheelchair users, there are three positions where the chairs are strapped in place to prevent moving on the deck. This trip was the first they had conducted since the Covid lockdown, and the difference was that we had to observe social distancing as much as we could and wear face masks.
The trip involves a speedy cruise to an inlet where seals will congregate with young, and once there the boat will slowly cruise around to give good opportunities to see the animals as they relax on the sandy banks and take photographs. After a while, when everyone is happy to return, the boat will make its way back at speed, keeping alongside the sister boat (non wheelchair accessible) as much as it can. If the sea is rough this return journey can be a bit uncomfortable if you are in a rigid framed wheelchair (as I am), as you get bumped about a bit.
All that said, it is a great experience and one I would recommend to everyone, wheelchair user or not.
The trip involves a speedy cruise to an inlet where seals will congregate with young, and once there the boat will slowly cruise around to give good opportunities to see the animals as they relax on the sandy banks and take photographs. After a while, when everyone is happy to return, the boat will make its way back at speed, keeping alongside the sister boat (non wheelchair accessible) as much as it can. If the sea is rough this return journey can be a bit uncomfortable if you are in a rigid framed wheelchair (as I am), as you get bumped about a bit.
All that said, it is a great experience and one I would recommend to everyone, wheelchair user or not.
Written July 15, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Robo198
2 contributions
May 2022 • Family
We booked thd Seal Safari in advance and turned up 40 minutes early to find them and get parked up. It was beautiful in Dover and we managed to park right outside. There's plenty of parking you need to pay for but it's not that expensive.
The place its self is well advertised with banners and signs and there is a toilet upstairs to use before your trip. There is also a little cafe upstairs with a balcony to sit and watch the ferries.
The trip was great, my 13 year old loved the speed going and coming back and it wasn't that bumpy. Took us around 30-40 minutes to get to the seals, Which were just inland. Took some amazing pictures while the seals sat on the bank and watched us. Some of the younger seals came closer to investigate the boat, but not too close.
Both staff members we had were very attentive asking if we were all alright during the ride and then sharing local knowledge once we arrived at the seals.
I would definitely recommend this trip, its pretty smooth so will accommodate younger children and you are issued a life vest before hand. There is another boat that will accommodate disabled visiters so cator for all visitors.
The place its self is well advertised with banners and signs and there is a toilet upstairs to use before your trip. There is also a little cafe upstairs with a balcony to sit and watch the ferries.
The trip was great, my 13 year old loved the speed going and coming back and it wasn't that bumpy. Took us around 30-40 minutes to get to the seals, Which were just inland. Took some amazing pictures while the seals sat on the bank and watched us. Some of the younger seals came closer to investigate the boat, but not too close.
Both staff members we had were very attentive asking if we were all alright during the ride and then sharing local knowledge once we arrived at the seals.
I would definitely recommend this trip, its pretty smooth so will accommodate younger children and you are issued a life vest before hand. There is another boat that will accommodate disabled visiters so cator for all visitors.
Written June 3, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your nice words. Sally :)
Written July 31, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Berry2012
Watchet, UK19 contributions
Aug 2020 • Couples
Very informative trip on a speed boat with lots of interesting anecdotes on the history of the local coastline.
Guide was chatty and looked after us on this exciting trip from Dover up to Deal and back.
The cooler temperatures out at sea were a welcome relief from the humid high temperatures on land.
Also had a Spitfire fly over the Dover cliffs as we headed out.
Highly recommend this trip which is suitable for all ages and congratulate the team on how they have considered the current COVID situation and how you are looked after.
Guide was chatty and looked after us on this exciting trip from Dover up to Deal and back.
The cooler temperatures out at sea were a welcome relief from the humid high temperatures on land.
Also had a Spitfire fly over the Dover cliffs as we headed out.
Highly recommend this trip which is suitable for all ages and congratulate the team on how they have considered the current COVID situation and how you are looked after.
Written August 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Brinky148
Margate, UK35 contributions
Jul 2020 • Couples
We have just returned from our White Cliffs rib ride with skipper James and it was absolutely brilliant! Booking was really simple, we received all information needed including the Covid instructions and even received a reminder about face masks on the morning.
We were given hand sanitizer on arrival and spaced out in family bubbles.
We were really lucky with the weather and the time flew. James gave us lots of information about the cliffs and local points of interest. I had no idea about chitty Chitty bang bang and Ian Fleming.
I would highly recommend this trip. We thought it was extremely reasonable and will be booking the seal trip next!
We were given hand sanitizer on arrival and spaced out in family bubbles.
We were really lucky with the weather and the time flew. James gave us lots of information about the cliffs and local points of interest. I had no idea about chitty Chitty bang bang and Ian Fleming.
I would highly recommend this trip. We thought it was extremely reasonable and will be booking the seal trip next!
Written July 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Cleo Chan
Hong Kong, China12 contributions
Jul 2022
We joined the trip on 2 July afternoon. The trip was fantastic and unforgettable. The crew Craig did an excellent job in both driving the craft professionally and explaining with humour the history and stories about the spots and towns we passed by along the English Channel. Being able to see the magnificent white cliff in a close distance was a superb experience. We enjoyed the trip very much. It was an exciting but a very safe safari journey!
Written July 9, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you. Sally :)
Written July 31, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Elizabeth W
2 contributions
Jul 2022
I have just got back from a fantastic Secret Seal Safari with skipper Richard and crew Liam. It far exceeded expectations. The sea trip in the rib was exhilarating, speeding along the coast from Dover to the River Stour Estuary and back. It gave a wonderful opportunity to view the familiar coastline from a different perspective. On the return trip Richard treated us to some fun 180 and 360 degree turns, which made everyone laugh. We saw lots of seals and their pups close up on the banks of the Stour Estuary. The atmosphere there was so tranquil and calm. I came off the boat feeling that I would love to do it all again.
Written July 6, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you very much. Sally :)
Written July 31, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Suzanne L
13 contributions
Jul 2021
This was the only trip that the Dover Sea Safari Offer that we had not yet taken and once again it didn't disappoint.
Unlike previous years the desk was now outside and we watched the previous trip returned wearing life jackets which were sprayed/cleaned down and left to dry.
Ready for our trip we were fitted out with life jackets and a short walk to the new marina. A safety briefing and off we went. The rib bounces a little which we both love, it never felt unsafe.
45 minutes later we were engines off drifting with the tide in the mouth of the river Stonar at Sandwich. We counted around 50 common harbour seals, adults and pups who were totally unfazed by our presence. Even a lone grey seal came swimming over. Plenty of time to take loads of pictures whilst we were told all about them by our knowledgeable guide and skipper.
The trip was timed perfectly as the tide came in so as the seals moved off we made our way back, tight to the coast to Dover Dock.
A great way to spend a couple of hours and even though we have been on all their trips we will be out with Dover Sea Safari again.
Unlike previous years the desk was now outside and we watched the previous trip returned wearing life jackets which were sprayed/cleaned down and left to dry.
Ready for our trip we were fitted out with life jackets and a short walk to the new marina. A safety briefing and off we went. The rib bounces a little which we both love, it never felt unsafe.
45 minutes later we were engines off drifting with the tide in the mouth of the river Stonar at Sandwich. We counted around 50 common harbour seals, adults and pups who were totally unfazed by our presence. Even a lone grey seal came swimming over. Plenty of time to take loads of pictures whilst we were told all about them by our knowledgeable guide and skipper.
The trip was timed perfectly as the tide came in so as the seals moved off we made our way back, tight to the coast to Dover Dock.
A great way to spend a couple of hours and even though we have been on all their trips we will be out with Dover Sea Safari again.
Written July 14, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Odile K
Rochester, UK27 contributions
Jul 2021
Great early morning on the Goodwin Sands with Elspeth, James and their team on the Wetwheels! We discovered new parts of the port of Dover and enjoyed the views of the white cliffs and the coastline from the sea. After landing on the sand bar, we watched the seals waddle off the vast ridge of sand; they looked surprised by our visit but it was not long before the cute, inquisitive creatures approached again and it was their turn to watch us!
The trip was very well organised, the timing was perfect and the staff /volunteers friendly and knowledgeable.
Although the cost seems high, any money left after the running costs goes to charity and gives people with disabilities the opportunity to go out on trips on Wetwheels.
The trip was very well organised, the timing was perfect and the staff /volunteers friendly and knowledgeable.
Although the cost seems high, any money left after the running costs goes to charity and gives people with disabilities the opportunity to go out on trips on Wetwheels.
Written July 25, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Fifibal
1 contribution
Oct 2021 • Solo
What a shame I’ve had to take to writing on here, after being excited on booking a voucher to take my disabled dad on the wetwheels seal safari trip. Which seemed like an ideal and exciting experience gift that was accessible to him. Due to COVID-19 we had to delay booking, but were reassured all vouchers had been extended and could be redeemed when we were comfortable to book. For the last few months I’ve been trying to book in for our trip to no avail, very often don’t answer the phone and certainly don’t reply to voicemails. I’ve had sparse replies to emails, but still no booking. At the time of booking I was only emailed a printable voucher which had no voucher code with it which has caused problems. I hope this can be fixed since the year is almost over… otherwise I will accept a refund :/
Written October 5, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Linda H
Ashford, UK1 contribution
How much are tickets for Dover Sea Safari? If I buy vouchers how long are they valid for?
Linda.
Doverseasafari
Dover, UK14 contributions
Hello Linda
Depends which trip. Head over to our website to see the 2021 schedule.
All vouchers are valid for 12mths from date of purchase or will be extended if 2021 lockdowns occur.
Go132820
1 contribution
Hi I’m trying to book a trip with you to see the seals and cliffs with my partner September 18th are open I’ve tried calling but no response thank you
Doverseasafari
Dover, UK14 contributions
Our phone is fairly busy but is being answered. You can book online through our website if that helps
Zero2herorunners
London, UK92 contributions
Is there parking
William D
Bucks County, PA119 contributions
Metered parking.
Hello, I have sent a couple web requests to your info@ address and have not received a response. Is there a better contact address? We will be traveling to Dover in October and are interested in a tour. Thank you for your help.
Doverseasafari
Dover, UK14 contributions
Hello there. We constantly monitor and respond to our info at Dover Sea Safari address and not aware of any issues.
You could always call us. 😀
Ginette S
Dover, UK32 contributions
How long does the sea safari last??
Doverseasafari
Dover, UK14 contributions
Hi there.
White Cliffs & Beyond 1.5hrs
Seal watching 2hrs
Maunsell Forts 4hrs
Goodwin Sands 3hrs
Full details are on our website 👍
Suzy64_13
London, UK19 contributions
How much is the seal safari
DealSalSal
Deal, UK19 contributions
£40 per and £245 under 14
Nicola_W_0108
United Kingdom595 contributions
Hello
Have people experienced any sea-sickness on these tours (the Secret Seals Safari in particular)? Is the water really choppy/rough? I have a tendency to feel unwell on boats but the 2-hour seal trip sounds a great opportunity!
AliWilliams77
Maidstone, UK23 contributions
I sometimes get seasick but did not experience it on this trip
Rebecca T
Bielefeld, Germany3 contributions
Hello, Might be visiting Dover over the weekend. Are you open this weekend if so what timings. Is there a contact number to call you on as unable to find one on here.
steinapluckrose
Kent, UK4 contributions
Hi there, we contacted Sea Safari through their Facebook page, well worth a visit .
LoveofTravel2020
3 contributions
Is there parking at the Sea Safari venue? Or will we have to walk from town? We have a car and would like to drive to Sea Safari if possible.
Doverseasafari
Dover, UK14 contributions
Hello, yes there is on-road pay and display parking along the same road as our building. The Esplanade. Make sure you bring some change for the parking machines. We look forward to welcoming you aboard. :)
Dover Sea Safari - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Dover Sea Safari Information
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