Scuba diving with Australian fur seals is one of the most thrilling underwater experiences imaginable. Seals are one of the fascinating creatures you can ever dive with. All they want to do is play with you, and if you don’t want to play with them then they will find someone or something else to play with.
For those not ready to commit to a full certification course, the PADI Discover Scuba Diving program offers a quick and easy introduction to exploring the underwater world, including an amazing seal experience.
Montague Island is a popular location for seal dives, offering spectacular opportunities to interact with these playful creatures.
The seals are located a 10-minute boat ride from Port Kembla Harbour, where you can enjoy seal dives. (We do not offer any transport from Sydney to Port Kembla) The day includes:
Double boat dive
Divemaster services
Light lunch between dives
This scuba diving experience is recommended for those looking to get up close and personal with Australian fur seals. If you have not dived in the past 12 months, it is recommended that you do a refresher course before undertaking this dive.
The divemaster is there to help all divers, but they are dive mastering for up to 10 divers, but if you need your own private DM, this service is available for an extra $199.
We also offer a separate activity of snorkelling with seals which is suited for non-divers.
Please Note: Normally there are between 20- 80 seals on the island and in the water around the island. The seals are wild animals and as such, we cannot guarantee their presence or their interaction with the divers.
Pickup for the Seal Dive at Martin Island
For our exciting Seal Dive at Martin Island, the pickup location is at Port Kembla Wharf, which is approximately a 1 hour and 15-minute drive from Abyss Scuba Diving in Ramsgate. If you need to hire gear, please collect it from our shop in Ramsgate before heading south. The drive will take you down Rocky Point Road and onto the M1 motorway towards Wollongong. Once you arrive at Port Kembla wharf, you’ll find ample parking available.
For a limited time, delight in a free Seal Dive experience with your PADI Open Water certification. […]
Tips to Maximise Your Seal Diving Fun
Maximising the fun when diving with the seals at Martin Island involves a mix of preparation, awareness, and a sense of adventure. Here are 13 tips to enhance your experience:
1. Stay Shallow: Dive in shallower waters to maximize your bottom time and extend the duration you can interact and play with the seals. Seals often swim close to the surface, so shallow diving increases your chances of encounters.
2. Bring an Underwater Camera: Capture the playful interactions with the seals. They often make for fantastic photo opportunities as they swim and frolic around you.
3. Interact Playfully: Engage with the seals by mimicking their movements. Twisting, turning, and playing in the water can attract their attention and keep them interested in you.
4. Use a Dive Light: A dive light can attract seals and highlight their features, making for better photo opportunities and a more engaging experience.
5. Bring a Snorkel: In addition to your scuba gear, bring a snorkel. Seals often swim near the surface, and snorkeling allows you to interact with them without the need for a full dive.
6. Stay Hydrated and Energized: Keep your energy levels up by staying hydrated and having a light snack before the dive. This ensures you’re in good spirits and ready for action.
7. Wear Bright Colors: Seals are curious creatures. Wearing bright-coloured gear can attract their attention and increase the chances of close encounters.
8. Observe and Learn: Spend some time observing the seals’ behaviour before getting in the water. Understanding their movements and habits can enhance your interactions.
9. Use a GoPro or Action Camera Mount: Mounting a camera on your mask or chest can capture hands-free footage of the seals’ antics, allowing you to enjoy the experience without worrying about holding a camera.
10. Stay Positive and Patient: Seals are wild animals, and interactions can vary. Stay positive, patient, and enjoy the overall experience of being in their natural habitat.
11. Become an Avelo Diver: The freedom, constant neutral buoyancy, and improved air consumption that comes with Avelo diving will maximise your opportunity to interact with the seals. Being able to keep their interest by mimicking these curious creatures can lead to more engaging and playful encounters.
12. Try Scuba Diving Today: If you're new to diving, consider a Discover Scuba Diving experience. It's a quick and easy introduction to exploring the underwater world without the commitment to a full certification course. No prior experience is necessary, making it accessible and appealing for everyone.
13. Join an Underwater Safari: Enhance your adventure by joining an underwater safari. This offers a variety of eco-experiences, such as snorkelling with seals, diving with sharks, and interacting with diverse marine life in Batemans Marine Park.
By following these tips, you can maximise the fun and make the most out of your diving adventure with the seals at Martin Island.
What Divers Are Saying About Their Amazing Seal Interactions:
