5 Tips for Scuba Diving with Seals

Imagine the thrill of scuba diving alongside seals, some of the ocean's most playful and captivating creatures. They want to have fun, and if you're not up for it, they'll find someone or something else to play with! Here are five tips to make your seal diving adventure truly unforgettable.

1. Be a Playful Buddy: Seals are naturally curious about divers and love to play. To catch their attention, use an underwater rattle or horn. Mimic their movements by twisting, turning, and copying them; they'll be more likely to engage with you. The more you interact, the more they'll want to play!
2. Keep It Shallow: To fully enjoy your seal diving experience, you'll need to be physically active. Since air consumption doubles every 10 meters you dive, staying between 5 and 10 meters deep is best. You'll be surprised how fast time flies and how soon your dive will end at this depth.
3. Respect Their Wild Nature:  Seals may seem friendly and adorable but remember they are wild animals. Avoid touching them or encouraging them to investigate you with their mouths. Although they have a similar intelligence level to dogs and are unlikely to use their powerful teeth aggressively, treating them respectfully is still essential.
4. Embrace the Experience:  Diving with seals is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure you'll never forget! Many divers dream of spending a day with these delightful creatures but never actually do it. Don't miss out on one of the most exhilarating diving experiences in NSW – book your seal dive today! Remember to Respect Their Space: As a scuba diving instructor, it's essential to emphasize the importance of respecting the seals' environment and their wild nature. While getting as close as possible to these fascinating creatures is tempting, always maintain a safe distance and avoid any physical contact. This will ensure both your safety and that of the seals.
5. Learn About Seal Behavior:  To enhance your diving experience, take the time to learn about seal behaviour and body language. Understanding their signals and movements will allow you to interact with them more effectively and responsibly. Moreover, it can help you appreciate the unique opportunity to dive alongside these incredible animals.

In conclusion, scuba diving with seals is an unparalleled adventure that combines the thrill of exploring the underwater world with the joy of interacting with these playful marine mammals. By following these tips, you can ensure a responsible, safe, and unforgettable diving experience. Book your dive today!

FAQ: Australian Fur Seals and Diving with Them

1. What are Australian fur seals? Australian fur seals (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) are a subspecies of the brown fur seal found in the waters surrounding Australia. Marine mammals are known for their playful nature, making them popular among scuba divers.

2. Where can I find Australian fur seals? Australian fur seals are commonly found in the coastal waters of Victoria, Tasmania, and southern New South Wales. They inhabit rocky islands, ledges, and reefs, where they can be seen resting on land or frolicking in the water.

3. What are some interesting facts about Australian fur seals?

• Depth: Australian fur seals can dive up to 200 meters deep.
• Duration underwater: They can hold their breath for over 6 minutes.
• Diet: Their diet consists mainly of fish, squid, and octopus.
• Breeding: They have a breeding season from October to December and give birth to a single pup.

4. How can I distinguish between Australian and New Zealand fur seals?
While both species are closely related, there are some key differences:

• Size: Australian fur seals are generally larger than New Zealand fur seals.
• Colour: Australian fur seals have a darker coat, usually dark brown or grey, while New Zealand fur seals have a lighter coat in silver-grey or light brown shades.
• Facial features: Australian fur seals have more pointed and longer noses than New Zealand fur seals' shorter, blunter noses.

5. Is it safe to dive with Australian fur seals? Diving with Australian fur seals is generally considered safe if you follow guidelines and maintain a respectful distance. These animals are naturally curious and playful, but remember, they are wild creatures. Avoid touching them or encouraging them to investigate you with their mouths.

6. What is the best time of year to dive with Australian fur seals? Australian fur seals are active throughout the year, but the best times for the seals at Martin Island are from June to September as they migrate south for the warmer months. Seals can be found at Jervis Bay and Montague Island all year around.

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