On the Water
4 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 99% of travelers
99% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$137
per adult
Animal Ocean
Animal Ocean
5
Scuba & SnorkellingBoat ToursWater SportsEco ToursNature & Wildlife Tours
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Full view
About
Welcome to Animal Ocean, your gateway to exploring Cape Town’s vibrant marine wildlife. Dive into unforgettable ocean safaris, where playful seals and fascinating sunfish await. Our eco-friendly tours offer a unique experience for ocean lovers of all ages, combining adventure with marine conservation to create lasting memories.
Hout Bay, South Africa
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LIKELY TO SELL OUT*
Guided kayaking adventure with marine life in Hout Bay
Guided kayaking adventure with marine life in Hout Bay
On the Water
2 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
from
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per adult
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
874 reviews
Excellent
836
Very good
26
Average
6
Poor
2
Terrible
4
These reviews have been automatically translated from their original language.
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Sensei_ZM71
London, UK21 contributions
Jan 2020
What an incredible experience from start to finish. The staff were friendly, helpful and informative. There was alot of wind in Cape Town when I arrived and the staff kept me updated as to when they could go out. Although my time was limited in Cape Town they gave me a variety of options and I brought someone else with me last minute who they also accommodated.
Everything was very well organised and the wet suit and equipment of good quality. Just some points to note, the website says suitable for kids 10 years and above but I would not take my 10 year old on this trip. There is quite a current at the snorkeling site and I think you need to be quite a good swimmer as there are alot of variables. I did get into a spot of bother towards the end but the guides were very quick to assist.
It is quite daunting jumping into the ocean among kelp and wild seals but any nerves are soon banished once you get used to it. The water is very cold but the wet suits are good. I did not experience being cold until right at the end, so everyone had a different experience.
Seeing the seals so close up and swim around you is just incredible. You get to enjoy the swaying kelp underwater which is mesmerizing. There are some fish around and I also spotted a few birds dive in, swim underwater and catch some of the fish. You get to spend an hour in the water which is enough. I didn't think I would enjoy the hot chocolate at the end as much as I did :)
From the point of making the booking until leaving their office the service and experience was first class. THANK you to all the staff, I would highly recommend this tour and will definitely go back and do this again now that I know what to expect.
Everything was very well organised and the wet suit and equipment of good quality. Just some points to note, the website says suitable for kids 10 years and above but I would not take my 10 year old on this trip. There is quite a current at the snorkeling site and I think you need to be quite a good swimmer as there are alot of variables. I did get into a spot of bother towards the end but the guides were very quick to assist.
It is quite daunting jumping into the ocean among kelp and wild seals but any nerves are soon banished once you get used to it. The water is very cold but the wet suits are good. I did not experience being cold until right at the end, so everyone had a different experience.
Seeing the seals so close up and swim around you is just incredible. You get to enjoy the swaying kelp underwater which is mesmerizing. There are some fish around and I also spotted a few birds dive in, swim underwater and catch some of the fish. You get to spend an hour in the water which is enough. I didn't think I would enjoy the hot chocolate at the end as much as I did :)
From the point of making the booking until leaving their office the service and experience was first class. THANK you to all the staff, I would highly recommend this tour and will definitely go back and do this again now that I know what to expect.
Written February 3, 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.
Hi there,
Wow wow wow what an incredible review to read - I must have read this 3 times! Thank you so much for taking the time to leave us such a detailed and well thought out review. Comments like yours help potential future guests make decisions about joining tours, and this is pretty convincing! I am happy to read that you felt so welcomed by our staff. We appreciate the recommendation - thank you for joining the Animal Ocean team to share your Seal Snorkeling experience. Please do join us again :)
Warm regards,
Lauren
Manager
Animal Ocean
Written February 18, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lisa L
Ubud, Indonesia46 contributions
Feb 2020
Animal Ocean was great at managing the experience. They had good equipment and they got into the water with us to make sure everything went well. When a particular seal was getting a little to aggressive, one of their staff pushed at it and suggested that I get out of the prawn refuse.
The seals are super fun. It's like we humans are toys strewn into the water for them to play with. They swim around you very acrobatically, poke at you with their noses, hang upside down in front of you and stare at you with their giant eyes. It's hilarious. The 40 minutes in the water went by really quickly. I had to quit after that because my fingers felt like ice cubes despite the neoprene gloves.
The boat skipper was kind enough to take a photo of me in the water using my phone after I jumped in and he gave us hot chocolate to warm us up after we got back in the boat. Great experience.
The seals are super fun. It's like we humans are toys strewn into the water for them to play with. They swim around you very acrobatically, poke at you with their noses, hang upside down in front of you and stare at you with their giant eyes. It's hilarious. The 40 minutes in the water went by really quickly. I had to quit after that because my fingers felt like ice cubes despite the neoprene gloves.
The boat skipper was kind enough to take a photo of me in the water using my phone after I jumped in and he gave us hot chocolate to warm us up after we got back in the boat. Great experience.
Written March 5, 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.
Hi there,
Thanks so much for taking the time to leave us such a detailed review - it sounds like you had an incredible experience snorkeling alongside the local Cape fur seals! The recently born pups have just started learning how to swim at this time of the year, and can be a little more curious than the older colony members. We do our best to maintain a no touching policy but the seals can at times get the better of their own curiosity! Hope you got some awesome images and footage of your time in the water. Thank you for joining Animal Ocean :)
Warm regards,
Lauren
Manager
Animal Ocean
Written March 9, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Deb
Lancing, UK34 contributions
Nov 2019
A walk, or rather snorkel, on the wild side but felt completely safe at all times. Such an amazing thing to do. The guys were very professional, capable and made sure we were able to get close and personal with the seals.
Written April 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.
Hi there,
What a wonderful way to describe the Seal Snorkeling activity - a snorkel on the wild side! Thank you so much for your fantastic review and rating of your experience with us. I am happy to read that you appreciated the hard work of our team members in allowing you to share the water with these friendly sea mammals. I hope you enjoy the memories of your trip :) Thanks again for joining Animal Ocean.
Warm regards,
Lauren
Manager
Animal Ocean
Written April 12, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Evelin B
Vang Vieng, Laos11 contributions
Jan 2020
It was one of the nicest experiences I had with wildlife. The crew was super friendly and really well prepared. I was afraid of the water being cold but it was actually great. The costumes do help a lot. Needless to say, the seals were simply a blast - super curious, big-googly eyes and quite the ballerinas (when underwater). So, please, book this little adventure because you won't regret it. P.S: After diving you get to drink nice warm tea in a robe that has a hoodie with a seal face on it. How cute is that?
Written January 27, 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.
Hi there Evelin,
Thank you for taking the time to leave us your comments about the Seal Snorkeling trip. I am so glad you had such a great time with our team and the Cape fur seals - watching them underwater is indeed a magical experience, one that we love sharing with our visitors! We appreciate the 5 star rating and recommendation :)
Warm regards,
Lauren
Manager
Animal Ocean
Written January 28, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
SuliBhanji
Mumbai, India1 contribution
Feb 2020
It was a good experience, certainly to be done once.
The team operating this activity were very professional and safe. I would certainly recommend them and if my children ever visit Cape Town in the future, I would be very comfortable trusting this team with my kids experience and safety.
Thank you for a lovely experience.
Suleiman Bhanji.
The team operating this activity were very professional and safe. I would certainly recommend them and if my children ever visit Cape Town in the future, I would be very comfortable trusting this team with my kids experience and safety.
Thank you for a lovely experience.
Suleiman Bhanji.
Written April 7, 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.
Hi there Suleiman,
Thank you so much for the recommendation and for sharing your comments about your Seal Snorkeling experience with us. It sounds like you had a good time with the Animal Ocean team - it is always wonderful to read about impressions made on our guests, as we strive to offer the best experience possible. Please do send your children our way if they ever come to South Africa on holiday! Thank you again for joining us whilst in Cape Town for your conference.
Warm regards,
Lauren
Manager
Animal Ocean
Written April 7, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
mum0fteens
6 contributions
Feb 2020 • Family
Don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime experience to get close and personal with the Cape Fur Seals. The only other place I've ever seen wild animals so willing to interact with humans was in Antarctica. The seals swim right up to you and are very playful. My son didn't want to get out of the water! Next time we're in Cape Town we plan to do it again. The staff were friendly, efficient and helpful, as well as being very knowledgeable and experienced. Fantastic value for money and an experience we'll always remember fondly.
Written February 21, 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.
Hi there,
Yay! I am so glad you and your son had such a fantastic experience with our team whilst sharing the Seal Snorkeling trip. Please do join us again when you next visit - we love having repeat guests :) Thank you for the great review and rating, we appreciate the kind words and recommendations to join us.
Warm regards,
Lauren
Manager
Animal Ocean
Written February 23, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Mauri S
1 contribution
Nov 2019
I went to South Africa for my birthday in 2019; during their spring/summer season (November), so it was just lovely. I wanted to get out of my comfort zone and experience diving with seals. I found Animal Ocean and signed up. THEY ARE AMAZING. Fully knowledgeable professionals that are empathetic to a first timer in the ocean, they had someone that sat with me the entire time in the ocean as I had never been that far out, they allowed me to get as close to the seals as I wanted without feeling scared. They bring you right into the heart of the seal area and instruct you so that you feel confident to pursue this opportunity. While I was in the water, the guide talked to me about the seals and gave me facts and info. When I got seasick 11 minutes into the time, I was guided back to the boat and the guides talked to me the entire time to make sure I was feeling okay. Afterwards they offer to pour warm water down your wet suit! It feels amazing after the cold ocean water. They have showers, towel covers, hot tea, full wet suits in an array of size options (kids and adults) and you can even rent go pro style cameras to document your trip (you get to keep the SD card). As I was arriving to Hout Bay to begin the experience I saw other seal snorkeling company's groups coming back, they didn't look nearly as happy or satisfied with their experience as the returning Animal Ocean crew before us did. Highly recommend!
Written April 13, 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.
Hi there,
WOWEE what an incredible review to read! Absolutely overflowing with praise and positivity. Thank you so much for the excellent recommendation and for taking the time and effort to leave us your review and details of your experience with the Animal Ocean team. I am beyond happy that you felt so looked after and cared for by the crew on your boat, and that you had such a magnificent overall experience. Well done for stepping out of your comfort zone and for making the decision to come out with us! I hope that the Seal Snorkeling trip added to your birthday celebrations in South Africa and that you have fond memories of your time with us :) Thanks again for joining us! Keep safe and healthy during this turbulent time.
Warm regards,
Lauren
Manager
Animal Ocean
Written April 14, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Heronlover
Hamburg, Germany29 contributions
Feb 2020 • Family
Never thought, that one can be so near to seals! Under best conditions and clear water we had a wonderful and unique experience. Seals were so cute, team so professional! Instructions before and during the trip highly professional. I really recommend this activity with animal ocean seal snorkeling.
Written March 14, 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.
Hi there,
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave us your thoughts about your Seal Snorkeling experience - it is wonderful to read that you so enjoyed the trip with our team and the Cape fur seals :) We appreciate the 5 star rating and great recommendation! Hope you have brilliant memories of your time in the water. Thanks for joining Animal Ocean!
Warm regards,
Lauren
Manager
Animal Ocean
Written March 16, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Tourist14517791808
1 contribution
Feb 2020
If you love seals, this is a dream come true.. If you don’t love seals, you will after this!!
Being this close to these beautiful, playfull animals is an experience of a lifetime!
The people of Animal Ocean are very kind, easy going and it has a friendly, non-commercial vibe. Like you want a tour to be.
The equipment is very good, you get a good explenation in advance and there are always 2 guides with you in the water.
We really recommend to do this experience and than Animal Ocean is the place to be!
Being this close to these beautiful, playfull animals is an experience of a lifetime!
The people of Animal Ocean are very kind, easy going and it has a friendly, non-commercial vibe. Like you want a tour to be.
The equipment is very good, you get a good explenation in advance and there are always 2 guides with you in the water.
We really recommend to do this experience and than Animal Ocean is the place to be!
Written February 21, 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.
Hi there,
What a lovely review to read! Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts about the Seal Snorkeling experience - it sounds like you had a great time with our team and the Cape fur seals :) We strive to offer the best service whilst we share the magic that is the Seal Snorkeling activity. Hope you have happy memories of your trip! Thank you for joining Animal Ocean and for the recommendation and great rating!
Warm regards,
Lauren
Manager
Animal Ocean
Written February 23, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
PhiDo
Paris, France281 contributions
Jan 2024 • Couples
A very professional, very welcoming team. Top equipment! Not even cold despite the water being 10 degrees. Everything was perfect. Real attention to the divers (our guide even saw that one of my fins was looser and took the initiative to tighten it). Possibility of renting a very easy to use go pro to film our entire outing and we leave with a video card and lots of beautiful memories with the seals.
Written January 30, 2024
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.
Hi There,
Thank you for the glowing review! We're thrilled that you found our team professional and welcoming. It's fantastic to hear that our top-notch equipment kept you warm in the 10-degree water.
We appreciate your recognition of our guide's attention to detail, and we're delighted that you enjoyed the option to rent an easy-to-use GoPro for capturing your underwater memories.
Looking forward to welcoming you back for more unforgettable adventures!
Warm Regards,
The Animal Ocean Team
Written February 20, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
hi looking to book a trip - can we have a private boat and how suitable is it for children aged 12+ (good swimmers who have snorkelled elsewhere in sea) just thinking of the water temp
Written March 13, 2020
Hi there,
You are welcome to book a private boat - please contact Animal Ocean Seal Snorkeling directly (find our info on our Google Business page). The water temperature averages about 10 - 11 degrees Celsius at this time of year, but we supply all the relevant wetsuit equipment, and limit the in water time to 50 minutes to manage the cold. As long as children are competent swimmers and are above the age of 10 years old they may join us, with a parent present for those under 18 years.
Lauren
Manager
Animal Ocean
Written March 20, 2020
Carmen
Bad Kissingen, Germany
Gibt es die Neoprenanzüge auch in Übergröße? 3xl?
Written February 3, 2020
Hello, have you got a last minute place for tomorrow (wednesday) at 12h30 or after ?
Written December 10, 2019
Hi Isabelle, my apologies I have only just received the notification of this message. I am sorry we could not accommodate you today. Perhaps in the future! You can find our direct contact details and booking options by searching for Animal Ocean Seal Snorkeling online.
Written December 11, 2019
Hello, what is the maximum group size you can accomodate for an afternoon (looking at march 16, 2020)?
Written December 3, 2019
Hi there Ayda,
Maximum group size we can accommodate is 22 people at 1 time slot - we have 2 boats that can each accommodate 11 clients. During March our afternoon time slot is at 13:30, and the trip duration is 2.5 hours long.
Please let us know if you have any further questions.
Thanks,
Lauren
Manager
Animal Ocean
Written December 3, 2019
Hello, do you take underwater pictures that I can purchase or would I need to bring an underwater camera?
Thank you
Written November 25, 2019
Hi there,
We do not take/provide guest pictures but you are welcome to bring your own camera for the trip. If necessary you can also rent a waterproof camera - the rental price includes the take home micro SD card. Alternatively if your bring your own empty micro SD card you can rent one of our waterproof cameras at a reduced price.
Let us know if you have any further questions :)
Thanks,
Lauren
Manager
Animal Ocean
Written December 3, 2019
Hi, may I know if it is available to snorkel with seals in mid-August? and how is the water temperature?
Written September 24, 2019
Hi there Anson,
We do operate in August if the weather predictions allow, as we are restricted by the ocean swell and wind conditions. Best bet would be to contact us when you are in Cape Town to chat about availability - August is only the start of our season so you will be able to book at short notice. The water temperature ranges from about 10 - 15 degrees Celsius, but we provide all the relevant and necessary equipment to keep you warm whilst you enjoy the activity :)
Written September 29, 2019
Hi, i arrive a Cape Town 16/4 I am a sub is possible to swim with a wetsuit total dry and a full face mask with sub cylinders ? 11 degree it very cold too much for me, I stay enter ten meters down, only for stay warm and see animals
Or other experience to have a direct contact with seals?
Written April 7, 2019
My advise is to contact the Animal ocean’s office and arrange to go on a boat trip only. They have that fascility and they are very friendly and helpful! From a safe and dry distance, it is still possible to interact with those cute animals and experience nature! You have to go!!!
Written April 20, 2019
Hi, may I know what is the sea temperature mid april? Is it gonna be cold?
Written March 15, 2019
Hi there, the water temperature at this time of year averages around 11 degrees Celsius - we do have very thick wetsuits which you will wear to keep you as warm as possible! The gear used includes a 2mm vest, 5mm wetsuit with integrated hood, as well as neoprene boots and gloves. The in-water time is limited to about 50 minutes due to the water temperature. Hope that helps!
Written March 23, 2019
Hi there,
Will you accept the 7yo kid for the swimming activity? He is perfect swimmer and is dreaming about this adventure. Thank you!
Written March 12, 2019
Hi Alice,
Thank you for your question. Our minimum age limit for snorkeling is 10 years old. However your 7 year old is welcome to join us as a boat viewer.
Please feel free to email me if you have any questions.
Kind Regards,
Lara
Animal Ocean
Written March 14, 2019
Hi, silly question - how difficult is it to get back into the boat? Myself and my wife are in our mid 50's and although we are good swimmers, we're not that flexible (or strong in the arms) to pull ourselves into a boat!
Thanks
Written January 6, 2019
No problem with that!! I am 48 years old and was also worried about that, but the instructors were very very helpful and patient! I can really recommend this exciting adventure!
Written January 7, 2019
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.