Your Guide to SwimWithSeals in Narooma
Australian Fur seal pup coming to say hello at Montague Island, NSW.
Just off the coast of Narooma, a town on the beautiful NSW South Coast, lies an adventure that will stick with you and your family for a lifetime. I’m talking about Barunguba Montague Island, the largest island off the NSW South Coast, known for its unique wildlife and cultural significance. Montague Island is home to a large colony of fur seals, and swimming with seals is one of the most popular activities for visitors. It’s an incredible experience, and I’m here to walk you through what to expect, so you can plan the perfect weekend trip.
The boat ride from Narooma to the island takes about 30 minutes. It’s just long enough to feel like you’re truly heading out into the ocean, leaving the mainland behind, but close enough to be an easy day ecursion. As you get closer, you’ll start to see them—dark shapes lounging on the rocks, part of the thriving colony that makes this island so special. It’s an awesome sight, and the excitement on the boat really starts to build.
The only way to visit Montague Island is on a guided tour or by staying overnight at the island's accommodation.
Meet the Locals: The Fur Seals of Montague Island Nature Reserve
Montague Island is a haven for fur seals. Fur seals are marine mammals, specifically fur seals, and are part of the pinniped family, which also includes true seals—distinguished by their internal ears and limited use of rear flippers. Most of the seals here are Australian Fur Seals, the largest of the eight fur seal species in the world. They are found throughout the islands of Bass Strait, Tasmania, South Australia, southern Victoria, and southern New South Wales. The colony at Montague Island is a critical habitat and breeding ground, and Seal Rocks is a major breeding area for the species, supporting around 20,000 Australian fur seals—about 25% of the total population. Depending on the time of year, the population on Montague Island can swell to over 1,000, though you’ll usually find at least 200 hanging around. You might also spot some New Zealand Fur Seals, which tend to keep a bit more personal space.
Australian fur seals prefer to live in the water and can spend long periods at sea, feeding and making foraging trips for food such as octopus, squid, cuttlefish, and fish. They spend their days swimming, rolling, and diving, and can hold their breath for up to six minutes and dive to depths of 200m. Seals often bring large prey up to the surface to tear it apart before swallowing, and they regularly surface to breathe and observe their environment. While they love the water, they also come ashore to rest and moult.
As your boat approaches, you’ll notice most seals seem to be asleep. Don’t worry, that’s just how they are. A few might lift a lazy head, give your boat a quick, uninterested glance, and then go right back to their nap. They’re used to the boats and know you’re not a threat. The real fun begins when you get in the water.
During late spring, females return to the colony for giving birth, with each female producing one pup. After giving birth, mothers nurse their pups and display strong maternal behaviors, including protecting and caring for their young until the pups are weaned. The best time to see seal pups at Montague Island is between December and May.
What to Expect When You Take the Plunge
Participants typically join guided boat tours to reach the natural seal colonies for snorkeling or swimming interactions. Several local tour operators offer swimming experiences with seals at Montague Island. You can’t just take your own boat out to Montague Island. It’s a protected nature reserve, so you need to go with an authorized tour operator. Most tours provide all essential equipment, including wetsuits, masks, snorkels, and fins, so you have everything you need to have an amazing and safe time. Participants usually need to be competent swimmers, comfortable in the water, and able to swim a short distance unassisted. There is also a minimum age requirement—generally, participants must be at least 8 years old to join the tour.
Once the boat anchors in a sheltered spot, it’s time to get ready. Before entering the water, participants are required to remove all jewelry, body piercings, and accessories to prevent accidental ingestion by seals. You’ll be given a wetsuit, which is essential because the water can be chilly, even in summer. You’ll also get a snorkel, goggles, and flippers. I remember pulling on my wetsuit, feeling the anticipation build. I grabbed my GoPro, hoping to capture some of the magic underwater.
When I first slid into the water, I didn’t see much besides the deep blue. But then I swam closer to the rocks where the seals were lounging. A few of them looked down at me from the edge, curious about this new visitor. Interactions with seals are strictly on the animals' terms; participants are generally advised to stay quiet and let the seals approach. Touching seals is strictly prohibited to avoid startling them or transmitting infections. Seals are wild animals with sharp teeth and claws and may bite if threatened or overstimulated. The guides give you some great advice: the more animated you are, the more playful the seals will be. So, when a seal finally slipped into the water near me, I did just as they said. I dove down, spun around, and swam back up. It worked! The seal didn’t get super close right away, but it stuck around, gliding effortlessly in circles around me.
The highlight for me was seeing a young seal pup. The guides had mentioned the pups were still very young and hadn’t been seen in the water much. So you can imagine my surprise when one started frolicking near the rocks right in front of me. I swam over gently, not wanting to scare it. It was incredible just to float there and watch it play. It’s moments like that—the unexpected connections with wildlife—that make this experience so special.
Planning Your Trip with Underwater Safaris
Your Guide to Swimming with Seals in Narooma
Just off the coast of Narooma, a town on the beautiful NSW South Coast, lies an adventure that will stick with you and your family for a lifetime. I’m talking about Montague Island, or Barunguba, a place where hundreds of seals gather, and you have the chance to jump in the water with them. It’s an incredible experience, and I'm here to walk you through what to expect, so you can plan the perfect weekend trip.
The boat ride from Narooma to the island takes about 30 minutes. It's just long enough to feel like you're truly heading out into the ocean, leaving the mainland behind, but close enough to be an easy day trip. As you get closer, you'll start to see them—dark shapes lounging on the rocks. It’s an awesome sight, and the excitement on the boat really starts to build.
Meet the Locals: The Seals of Montague Island
Montague Island is a haven for seals. Depending on the time of year, the population can swell to over 1,000, though you’ll usually find at least 200 hanging around. Most of them are Australian Fur Seals, who love to pile up together on the rocks, looking like a heap of snoozing, blubbery boulders. You might also spot some New Zealand Fur Seals, which tend to keep a bit more personal space.
As your boat approaches, you'll notice most seals seem to be asleep. Don't worry, that's just how they are. A few might lift a lazy head, give your boat a quick, uninterested glance, and then go right back to their nap. They’re used to the boats and know you’re not a threat. The real fun begins when you get in the water.
What to Expect When You Take the Plunge
You can't just take your own boat out to Montague Island. It's a protected nature reserve, so you need to go with an authorized tour operator. They provide everything you need to have an amazing and safe time.
Once the boat anchors in a sheltered spot, it’s time to get ready. You’ll be given a wetsuit, which is essential because the water can be chilly, even in summer. You'll also get a snorkel, goggles, and flippers. I remember pulling on my wetsuit, feeling the anticipation build. I grabbed my GoPro, hoping to capture some of the magic underwater.
When I first slid into the water, I didn't see much besides the deep blue. But then I swam closer to the rocks where the seals were lounging. A few of them looked down at me from the edge, curious about this new visitor. The guides give you some great advice: the more animated you are, the more playful the seals will be. So, when a seal finally slipped into the water near me, I did just as they said. I dove down, spun around, and swam back up. It worked! The seal didn't get super close right away, but it stuck around, gliding effortlessly in circles around me.
The highlight for me was seeing a young seal pup. The guides had mentioned the pups were still very young and hadn't been seen in the water much. So you can imagine my surprise when one started frolicking near the rocks right in front of me. I swam over gently, not wanting to scare it. It was incredible just to float there and watch it play. It’s moments like that—the unexpected connections with wildlife—that make this experience so special.
Planning Your Trip with Underwater Safaris
For an unforgettable family adventure on the South Coast, you want to go with the best. That’s why we recommend Underwater Safaris. As the preferred local experts for Montague Island nature reserve, they know every nook and cranny of this spectacular protected area just off Narooma. Their passion for the marine environment is infectious, and their priority is making sure you have a safe, fun, and educational experience—whether you’re there to snorkel with the playful seals or try your hand at scuba diving.
The team at Underwater Safaris provides all the high-quality gear you’ll need, including warm wetsuits and snorkeling equipment. Their experienced guides are fantastic. They’ll not only help you feel comfortable in the water but will also share fascinating facts about the seals and other marine life you might encounter at Montague Island nature reserve. In addition to seals, visitors may also have the chance to see other fascinating marine life such as sharks, which enhances the adventure and educational experience. They’re great with kids and first-time snorkelers, even providing flotation noodles for extra support if you need them.
And if you’re looking to go even deeper, Underwater Safaris also offers scuba diving adventures around Montague Island, revealing the vibrant underwater world that makes the South Coast so unique. With Underwater Safaris, you’re not just going on a tour; you’re being guided by people who genuinely love what they do and are excited to share it with you.
When is the Best Time to Go?
You can swim with the seals year-round, but some seasons offer unique bonuses.
December to May: This is the prime time to see playful seal pups, as they are at their most curious.
September to November: While the pups aren't around, this is whale migration season. You have a great chance of spotting humpback whales on your way to or from the island, which is a massive bonus.
No matter when you go, you’ll also see a huge variety of fish, corals, and other sea life. Keep your eyes peeled for turtles and manta rays, which occasionally make an appearance.
More to See on Montague Island
While swimming with the seals is the main event for many, the island itself is well worth exploring. Some tours include a landing on the island, giving you a chance to explore Montague Island through guided tours, walking tracks, and sightseeing, allowing you to discover its natural beauty and unique points of interest. Montague Island is part of Batemans Marine Park, renowned for its natural beauty and conservation efforts.
The Montague Island Lighthouse, built in 1881, is a stunning granite structure that stands proudly over the island. You can climb the winding staircase for breathtaking 360-degree views. Nearby is the restored Head Lighthouse Keeper’s Cottage, and visitors can stay overnight in the Lighthouse Keeper's Cottage or the Assistant Keeper's Cottage for a unique and memorable experience!
For those who enjoy a walk, the Montague Island walking track is a 1.5-kilometer loop that takes you past penguin breeding boxes and offers the chance to spot little penguins, as well as fantastic views of the seal colonies from above. The island is also a critical habitat for seabirds, so it’s a paradise for birdwatchers. Montague Island is home to a colony of fur seals, thousands of little penguins (the largest breeding colony in NSW), and over 90 bird species.
A trip to swim with the seals at Montague Island is more than just a fun activity; it’s a chance to connect with nature in a profound way. The waters around Montague Island also offer excellent fishing opportunities, with species such as tuna, marlin, and kingfish available. It’s an experience your family will be talking about for years to come. So, when planning your next weekend getaway, make sure Narooma is at the top of your list.
Protecting the Seals: Conservation Efforts and Responsible Tourism
Montague Island, nestled off the south coast of New South Wales, is more than just one of the region’s most popular attractions—it’s a vital sanctuary for Australian fur seals and a dazzling array of sea life. As part of the Montague Island Nature Reserve, the island is carefully managed to protect its unique biodiversity, ensuring that both visitors and animals can enjoy this stunning coastline for generations to come.
When you visit Montague Island, you’re stepping into a world where conservation and adventure go hand in hand. Guided tours—whether you’re keen on scuba diving, snorkeling with playful seals, or whale watching—are led by experienced dive masters who prioritize safety for both people and animals. By choosing eco-friendly operators, you’re directly supporting efforts to preserve the habitats of fur seals, eared seals, and countless other species that call these crystal-clear waters home.
Breeding season is a particularly special time on the island. Female seals return to give birth, and if you’re lucky, you might spot a seal pup or two from a respectful distance. It’s an amazing experience to witness these beautiful seals in their natural environment, but it’s crucial to follow guidelines: always observe from afar, never attempt to touch or feed the animals, and avoid disturbing their natural behaviors. The Montague Island Lighthouse offers stunning vistas of the island and the surrounding sea, making it a perfect spot to watch seals lazing on the rocks or even catch a glimpse of migrating humpback whales.
To help protect this precious environment, visitors should stick to designated paths, take all rubbish with them, and avoid polluting the sea or land. Supporting local conservation organizations or participating in citizen science projects is another great way to give back. Every small action helps maintain the delicate balance that allows Montague Island’s wildlife to thrive.
The Australian government and local communities are actively involved in conservation efforts, from monitoring seal populations to reducing pollution and safeguarding marine habitats. If you notice any issues, such as pollution or habitat damage, reporting them to authorities can make a real difference.
Ultimately, protecting Montague Island and its incredible wildlife is a shared responsibility. By embracing responsible tourism, you’re helping to ensure that the unforgettable experience of swimming with seals, exploring the coastline, and marveling at the island’s natural beauty remains available for future visitors. Whether you’re drawn by the thrill of a dive, the wonder of whale watching, or the simple joy of seeing seals in their element, your visit can be both fun and meaningful—leaving the island just as wild and wonderful as you found it.
Snorkelling with Seals FAQs
Do I need to be a strong swimmer for a Narooma fur seal swim?
You don't need to be an Olympic swimmer, but being comfortable in the water is a big plus. Tour operators provide wetsuits for buoyancy and warmth, and many offer flotation noodles for extra support. It's more about being relaxed and enjoying the Montague Island nature reserve adventure than swimming long distances. A basic level of confidence is all you need for a fantastic guided snorkelling Narooma experience.
Is a seal swim tour in Narooma safe for families and children?
Absolutely! This is one of the best Montague Island wildlife experiences for families. Reputable tour operators prioritize safety above all else. The guides are experienced and fantastic with kids, making sure everyone feels secure. The seals themselves are curious but not aggressive, making a seal swim tour Narooma a safe and unforgettable outing for the whole family.
Will the seals actually swim with us?
That's the magic of it! The residents of the Narooma seal colony are naturally curious. While they are wild animals and their behavior is never guaranteed, they often come over to check you out. The more playful and animated you are, the more they tend to interact, darting and swirling around you. It's an incredible part of the swimming with seals Narooma experience.
When is the best time for a Montague Island seal snorkelling trip?
You can enjoy snorkelling with seals in Narooma all year, but for a special treat, plan your visit between December and May. This is when the seal pups are at their most playful and curious. You'll also get to see the island's famous penguins during this time. A trip to see the seals and penguins on Montague Island is a truly unique experience.
What's the difference between morning and afternoon tours?
Both morning and afternoon tours for your snorkel with seals Narooma trip are great, but there can be slight differences. Mornings often have calmer water conditions. Seal activity is generally consistent throughout the day, so you won't miss out either way. Your choice might come down to personal preference or how it fits into your family's schedule for your Montague Island snorkel session.
Is snorkelling with seals an eco-friendly activity?
Yes, it is. The tour operators for eco tours Narooma are passionate about conservation and follow strict guidelines to protect the wildlife and the Montague Island nature reserve. The tours are designed to be observational, ensuring minimal impact on the seals' natural behavior. By choosing a licensed operator, you're supporting sustainable tourism that helps preserve this incredible marine environment.
