Seal Island Western Carracks
Witness playful seals on rugged rocks and dramatic coastlines via thrilling boat tours from St Ives.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Seals are more likely to be visible
Seal Island Western Carracks
Best Time
Seals are more likely to be visible
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness playful seals on rugged rocks and dramatic coastlines via thrilling boat tours from St Ives.
"A unique experience with stunning views, but check the tides for the best seal sightings!"
Check Tide Times First! :ocean:
Crucial for seal sightings! Aim for low tide to see them lounging on the rocks.
Boat Tour Booking :ticket:
Book in advance, especially during peak season. Consider a glass-bottomed boat for extra views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Seals Themselves
Seal Island
Witness playful seals lounging on the rocks or bobbing in the turquoise waters. A truly wild encounter!
Dramatic Coastal Views
En route to Seal Island
Experience the raw power of the ocean as waves crash against rugged cliffs and coastline.
Glass Bottomed Boat Experience
The Nemo Boat Tour
See marine life beneath the waves and enjoy unique perspectives of the underwater world.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Seal Sightings
Boat Tours: Your Best Bet
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Tide Times First! :ocean:
Crucial for seal sightings! Aim for low tide to see them lounging on the rocks.
Boat Tour Booking :ticket:
Book in advance, especially during peak season. Consider a glass-bottomed boat for extra views.
Seasickness Preparedness :pill:
Boat trips can be bumpy. If you're prone to seasickness, take precautions.
Weather Watch :cloud:
Tours can be cancelled due to poor weather. Keep an eye on the forecast.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tide Times First! :ocean:
Crucial for seal sightings! Aim for low tide to see them lounging on the rocks.
Boat Tour Booking :ticket:
Book in advance, especially during peak season. Consider a glass-bottomed boat for extra views.
Seasickness Preparedness :pill:
Boat trips can be bumpy. If you're prone to seasickness, take precautions.
Weather Watch :cloud:
Tours can be cancelled due to poor weather. Keep an eye on the forecast.
Drone for Close-Ups :camera_with_flash:
If you have a drone, you can get amazing footage of seals from above.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the thrilling boat rides and the stunning coastal scenery, with many enjoying the unique experience of seeing seals in their natural habitat. However, some trips can be disappointing if seals are not visible due to high tide or feeding times, and seasickness can be a concern for some.
"I started the trail at St Ives, and walked all the way to the Seal Island, the island is quite far from the land, so I couldn’t see if there was any seals. But than I use my good friend Drone and took some amazing footage of the seals enjoying a great time at the rocks."
Marcos Sartori Neis
"We recently took a £80 boat ride to Seal Island with a group of four (2 kids and 2 adults). Unfortunately, our trip coincided with high tide, so the seals were busy feeding and were not visible on the rocks or other sea. Instead of seeing them lounging, we spent our 30 mins enjoying the dramatic sea views as waves crashed against the rugged coastline. The sight and sound of the ocean battering the rocks were both thrilling and soothing, offering a therapeutic experience despite missing the seals.
For those planning a similar trip, I strongly recommend checking tide schedules and aiming for low tide. During low tide, the seals are more likely to be seen relaxing on the rocks, making for a more rewarding visit.
Despite not getting the seal sightings we hoped for, the boat ride itself was still worthwhile. The powerful sea views and the calm of being on the water made the experience memorable. If you love natural beauty and are flexible with expectations, this trip offers a refreshing escape and a chance to appreciate the sea's raw power."
Sandeep Patel
"Took a seal safari out to Seal Island. From the Dock to the island probably about 20 minutes. If you get sea sick might not be for you. You see some stunning views on the way and seals when you get there. A unique experience. If the weather isn't good might hamper the experience or be cancelled."
Alex Murphy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way to reach Seal Island is by taking a boat tour from St Ives harbour. Several operators offer trips, with durations typically around 30 minutes to an hour. Kayaking is also an option for the adventurous, but be aware of the distance from shore. +1
Yes, St Ives has several car parks, though they can get busy, especially during peak season. It's advisable to arrive early or consider public transport if possible.
Seal Island is quite far from the mainland, making it impractical and potentially dangerous to walk. Boat tours are the recommended and safest method of access.
The boat journey from St Ives to Seal Island usually takes about 20 minutes each way, depending on sea conditions and the specific tour.
While Seal Island itself isn't accessible by public transport, St Ives, where the boat tours depart, is reachable by bus and train services from surrounding areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Prices for boat tours can vary, but expect to pay around £80 for a family of four, or roughly £20-£30 per person for shorter trips. Booking in advance is recommended.
It's highly recommended to book your boat tour in advance, especially during the summer months or on weekends, to secure your spot.
Boat tours typically operate daily, weather permitting, with departures throughout the day. It's best to check with individual tour operators for their specific schedules.
Generally, there are no strict age restrictions, but children should be accompanied by an adult. Some tours might have recommendations for younger children due to the sea conditions.
Boat tours are subject to weather conditions and can be cancelled for safety reasons. Operators will usually offer a refund or the option to reschedule.
📸 📸 Photography
Bring a telephoto lens to capture seals from the boat. If you have a drone, you can get incredible aerial shots, but be mindful of wildlife and regulations.
Absolutely! The dramatic coastline, crashing waves, and of course, the seals themselves, offer fantastic photographic opportunities throughout the journey.
Yes, glass-bottomed boats offer unique underwater photo opportunities, allowing you to capture marine life and the seabed.
Use a fast shutter speed to freeze motion, a wider aperture for a shallow depth of field, and ensure good focus tracking for moving subjects like seals.
Boat tours maintain a respectful distance to avoid disturbing the seals. Drones can offer closer perspectives, but always prioritize the animals' well-being.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Opting for a glass-bottomed boat can add an extra layer of engagement, allowing kids to see underwater life. Remember to check tide times for the best seal viewing, as a successful sighting will make the trip even more memorable for the whole family. Pack snacks and drinks, and dress in layers as it can be cooler on the water.
💰 Budget Travelers
Alternatively, if you're an experienced kayaker and conditions are favourable, paddling to the island could be a free option, though it requires significant effort and preparedness. Always prioritize safety and check local conditions before attempting such a journey.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For a unique perspective, consider a drone if regulations permit and you have the necessary skills. Glass-bottomed boats offer chances to photograph marine life below the surface. Remember to pack extra batteries and memory cards – you won't want to miss a shot!
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Seal Island's Wildlife
While seals are the main draw, the surrounding waters are also rich in marine life. Keep an eye out for various seabirds that frequent the area, and if you're lucky, you might even spot dolphins or porpoises. The Nemo glass-bottomed boat tours specifically highlight the underwater ecosystem, providing a glimpse into the diverse life beneath the waves.
It's important to remember that these are wild animals. Boat tours and visitors are advised to maintain a respectful distance to avoid disturbing their natural behaviour and habitat. This ensures the long-term health of the seal colony and a more authentic wildlife experience for everyone.
Navigating Boat Tours and Sea Conditions
Weather plays a crucial role in the viability of these tours. High winds or rough seas can lead to cancellations for safety reasons. It's always wise to check the weather forecast and confirm with the tour operator before your scheduled departure. Many operators are flexible and will offer rescheduling options or refunds if a trip is cancelled.
When choosing a tour, consider options like the Nemo glass-bottomed boat, which adds an extra dimension to the experience by allowing you to see marine life below the surface. Regardless of the boat type, the dramatic scenery and the chance to see seals make the journey a memorable adventure.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit