Blakeney Seal Trips
Blakeney Seal Colony
No trip to Blakeney or the North Norfolk coast would be complete with out a trip to see the seals and their pups at Blakeney Point. The seal colony at Blakeney point is one of the biggest colonies of resident common and grey seals in the UK. Whatever time of year you go on a seal trip, you will see seals at Blakeney.
Winter is one of the best times to take a Blakeney seal trip as the seal pups are born through the winter months. Make sure you wrap up well at this time of year. Blakeney Point is owned and managed by the National Trust, and is also home to a large numbers of wild birds
How to book a seal trip to see Blakeney seals
There are several local North Norfolk companies offering trips to see the Blakeney seals up close by boat.
Seal Trips Blakeney
Boats leave regularly from Morston Quay all year round. In high season some seal trips also leave from Blakeney Quay. The Blakeney seal trips are very popular so you will need to book your ticket by telephone or in peak season with the agents who are on Blakeney Quay.
Links to the Blakeney Seal trips companies websites below:
What to wear on the boat when you go on a seal trip to Blakeney Point
Whatever time of year you go on a seal trip to see the Blakeney seals, it is always advisable to wear layers, as the weather in North Norfolk can change quickly, and it often feels cooler on the water.
Make sure to wear flat sensible shoes that you will be able to easily get on and off the boat with and move around easily in. Deck shoes, trainers or sketchers are ideal in summer as they have a rubber sole and will not slip on the boats decks. In winter flat boots may provide extra warmth. Make sure the soles are not slippy.
If you are going on a Blakeney seal trip in winter make sure that you wrap up warm with lots of layers, wear warm shoes and socks, and bring a coat.
A hat, gloves and scarf will also keep you warm if the weather is chilly. Two pairs of socks is also a good idea if the weather is cold or tights or long johns under your trousers.
Do I need to bring anything else on a Blakeney seal trip?
If you go on a boat trip to see the Blakeney seals in summer heres a list of things to bring with you :
- Put on suncream
- Bring sunglasses, as the reflected light from the water can be very strong.
- A well fitting sun hat is a good idea particularly for men and children.
- A bottle of water is always nice to have with you
- Take your camera or phone as there will be lots of wildlife including seals to see and photograph
- Bring layers as its often colder on the water than it is on land even onb a sunny day.
- If its really cold, a blanket is always nice
- Binoculars if you have them
What not to wear on the boat trip to see the Blakeney seals
- Unsuitable footwear such as high heels, stilettos
- Flip flops are not ideal footwear, as the seal boats can be crowded, and you may lose your shoe or your footing.
Can I bring my dog on a Blakeney Seal Trip?
Most of the seal trips to Blakeney Point are dog friendly. Check this when you are booking. It is advisable only to take your dog on a seal trip, if you think they will behave well. If you think going on a boat will stress your dog, it is probably best to leave them in the cottage.
Remember there will probably be lots of other people on the boat trip, including children and not everyone is dog friendly. There may also be other dogs on the seal trip. Make sure if you take your dog with you, you keep it under control at all times
How much does a trip to see the seals at Blakeney Point cost?
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Around £20 for an adult, £10 for a child and under 2's are usually free.
Where to get refreshments in Morston or Blakeney after the seal trip?
- In the summer there is a kiosk on Morston Quay selling snacks and drinks
- For something more substantial visit the Anchor Pub at Morston ( we love this place )
- Or you could drive or walk (along coastal path) back to Blakeney where you will be spoilt for choice. There are several cafes, restaurants and pubs.
What type of seals do you see in Norfolk?
In Norfolk, you can see two main types of seals: the grey seal and the common seal (also known as the harbour seal).
Grey Seals
- Scientific Name: Halichoerus grypus
- Appearance: Grey seals are larger than common seals. They have long, horse-like faces with no visible ear flaps. Their coats can vary in colour from grey to brown and even black, often with unique blotchy patterns.
- Pupping Season: Grey seals give birth to their pups between late October and January. The pups have white fur and remain on the beach for a few weeks before they are weaned and learn to swim.
Common Seals
- Scientific Name: Phoca vitulina
- Appearance: Common seals are smaller than grey seals. They have more rounded faces with V-shaped nostrils and short muzzles. Their coats are generally lighter in colour, often with a spotted pattern.
- Pupping Season: Common seals give birth to their pups between June and August. Unlike grey seal pups, common seal pups can swim almost immediately after birth.
Best locations for viewing seals in Norfolk
- Blakeney Point: Both grey seals and common seals can be seen here. Boat trips from Blakeney and Morston Quay offer the best viewing opportunities.
- Horsey Beach: Primarily grey seals, especially during the winter pupping season.
These seal colonies are a significant attraction in Norfolk, offering a unique wildlife experience for visitors.