Swimming With Seals Narooma: Why Underwater Safaris is Our Top Pic
If you’re keen on swimming with seals Narooma style in Australia, there’s really only one crew you need to know about. We’re talking about Underwater Safaris.
I’ve been out on the water more times than I can count, and let me tell you, when you’re looking for that perfect Narooma seal swim, the operator makes or breaks the day. You want a team that knows the reefs like the back of their hand and treats the ocean with the respect it deserves. Montague Island is a beautiful place, renowned for its scenic views, abundant birdlife, and pristine natural environment. That’s why Explore Narooma has pinned Underwater Safaris as our preferred operator for getting you face-to-whiskers with the fur seals at Montague Island. With their expertise, the seal swim is truly an amazing experience.
Here’s the lowdown on why these legends are the best in the business and why you’d be mad to miss a trip with them. The boat ride out to Montague Island covers approximately 8 kilometers offshore from Narooma, adding to the adventure.
Introduction to Underwater Safaris
Underwater Safaris stands out as one of the most trusted tour operators in Narooma, New South Wales, offering unforgettable adventures for anyone eager to explore the vibrant marine life around Montague Island, also known as Barunguba Montague Island.
Specializing in guided scuba diving, snorkeling, and swimming tours, their team of experienced PADI Dive Masters and Instructors ensures every trip is both safe and packed with fun.
Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a first-time snorkeler, you’ll have the chance to interact with playful seals, spot dolphins gliding through the waves, and discover the incredible diversity of marine life that calls this island home.
With a strong focus on conservation and a genuine passion for the ocean, Underwater Safaris delivers a unique blend of education, adventure, and respect for the natural habitat—making every tour a memorable experience for visitors from across South Wales and beyond.
Location and Accessibility
Nestled on the stunning South Coast of New South Wales, Narooma is the gateway to one of Australia’s most spectacular marine playgrounds. Just a scenic 5.5-hour drive from Sydney or a quick 3-hour trip from Canberra, Narooma is perfectly positioned for a coastal escape. From here, it’s only a 30-minute boat ride to Montague Island, where the crystal-clear, pristine waters are teeming with marine life.
The island is famous for its thriving colonies of Australian and New Zealand fur seals, making it a top destination for scuba diving, snorkeling, and seal swims. Access to Montague Island is exclusively through licensed tour operators like Underwater Safaris, who provide well-equipped boats and expert guidance for visitors eager to explore the coast, meet the seals, and experience the magic of this unique colony.
Whether you’re a diver, snorkeler, or simply a wildlife enthusiast, the journey to Montague Island is as breathtaking as the destination itself.
The Main Event: Getting Wet with Fur Seals
Let’s cut to the chase—you’re here for the seals, and most of the ones you’ll meet are Australian fur seals, famous for their playful behavior and curiosity towards snorkelers.
The experience at the “Aquarium” (a shallow section of the reef in the Marine Park) is honestly mind-blowing. You’ll see playful fur seals lazing on the rocks, basking in the sun, or slipping into the crystal clear waters to swim and interact. The seals aren’t shy; in fact, they’re usually the ones checking us out. You jump in for your snorkel trip, and suddenly you’re surrounded by these “sea puppies” darting around you, blowing bubbles, and showing off—sometimes even seals snorkelling right alongside you. It’s chaotic in the best possible way.
Montague Island, also known as Barunguba, is home to the largest seal colony in New South Wales, with the seal population reaching up to 1000 during peak season (and around 200 in quieter times). While Australian fur seals are the most common, you may also spot New Zealand fur seals, which tend to be more solitary. The island is surrounded by rich marine biodiversity, including various fish species and sea turtles, making the crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling and diving. The rocks around the island provide the perfect habitat for seals to rest, play, and congregate.
Underwater Safaris runs a tight ship but keeps the vibe super relaxed. They know exactly where to drop you so you get the best interaction. Visibility usually ranges from 10 to 40 metres plus, so you’re not squinting through murk hoping to see a shadow. You’re getting high-definition action.
Montague Island seal snorkelling is their bread and butter. They check the wind, the swell, and the tides before every single trip to ensure they pick the absolute best spot for the day. And the best part? They can pretty much always access the seal sites, regardless of which way the wind is blowing.
Come swim with these playful Australian fur seals at Montague Island, Narooma., NS
Rave Reviews
Don’t just take our word for it; customers can’t stop raving about their experiences with Underwater Safaris. Hear what some of them had to say:
“The staff were so kind, knowledgeable, and friendly. Even when I got seasick, they made sure I was okay.”
“Epic seal encounters! They swam so close to us, and their playful nature was just magical. A perfect day at Montague Island!”
“The professionalism and safety standards were top-notch. The team went above and beyond, making each part of the trip memorable.”
From the breathtaking marine encounters to the accommodating and supportive crew, the glowing reviews highlight exactly why this experience truly stands out.
Why We Back Francois and Clover
It’s not just about the seals; it’s about the people running the show. Francois and Clover own the joint, and it’s a proper family affair with their three sons, Max, Milo, and George, often in the mix.
These guys aren't just driving a boat; they live and breathe the ocean. They’ve spent years working on Montague Island itself, so their local knowledge is unbeatable. When you step onto their 9-metre Naiad vessel (which packs a punch with twin 300HP engines), you feel safe. They’ve got over 30 years of tourism experience between them.
But here’s the kicker for me—they are the only charter in Narooma that doesn’t offer fishing tours. Now, I love a fish, but I respect that they’ve drawn a line in the sand. They are 100% committed to diving and eco-tourism. They are also single-use plastic-free. As divers, we see the mess plastic makes underwater, so seeing an operator actually walk the walk is brilliant.
What You Need to Know Before You Go
If you’re planning a seal snorkeling trip NSW, timing is everything.
Seal Pups: December through May is prime time if you want to see the totally adorable pups. It’s hard to beat the cuteness factor here.
Whale Watching: If you head out between September and November, you get a bonus. The Southern Whale migration is in full swing, and Humpback Whales migrate past Montague Island during September and October. It’s pretty standard to have Humpback whales breaching near the boat or singing while you’re in the water.
Sharks: From November to April, the Grey Nurse sharks hang about the deeper sections. You’ll also see Wobbegongs and Port Jacksons.
For the certified divers among us, the deeper reefs are stunning. We’re talking golden kelp beds, massive bull rays, and turtles.
Dolphins are often sighted swimming alongside boats heading to Montague Island, and visitors may also spot the occasional turtle. September to November is a special time to visit for whale watching.
The trips are well organised:
Tours to Montague Island generally last 3.5 to 4 hours, with seal swims typically lasting 2.5 to 3.5 hours.
Tues/Thurs/Sat/Sun: First trip is a solid 4.5-hour round trip.
Mon/Wed/Fri: First trip is a punchy 3 hours.
The cost of snorkeling tours with seals typically ranges from $75 to $100.
Tours are available year round, but specific wildlife sightings may vary by season.
Participants should be confident swimmers; no prior scuba diving experience is needed for 'Discover Scuba Dive' options. Participants are provided with wetsuits, fins, masks, and snorkels.
And don’t worry if you don’t have gear. They’ve got a full range of dive equipment for hire. Just tick the box when you book.
Guided Snorkelling Narooma: Safety First
I know jumping into the ocean can be a bit daunting for some, but guided snorkelling Narooma with this crew is foolproof. Their prices include a PADI Instructor or Dive Master in the water with you.
You’re not just chucked off the back of the boat and told "good luck". They’re in there pointing stuff out, making sure your mask is cleared, and ensuring you’re comfortable. It makes a huge difference, especially if you’ve got kids or nervous swimmers in your group.
Marine Life Conservation
Montague Island Nature Reserve is a sanctuary for some of Australia’s most fascinating wildlife, including large colonies of Australian and New Zealand fur seals, as well as the beloved little penguins. Managed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service, the island’s protected status ensures that its rich ecosystem remains a haven for marine life and seabirds. Tour operators like Underwater Safaris play a vital role in supporting these conservation efforts by promoting responsible tourism and educating visitors about the importance of preserving this unique environment. By following strict guidelines and minimizing their environmental footprint, they help safeguard the future of the island’s wildlife—including the adorable little penguins and the charismatic fur seals. Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural habitat, avoid disturbing the animals, and support initiatives that reduce plastic pollution, helping to keep Montague Island’s waters and beaches pristine for generations to come.
Narooma Accommodation
When planning your visit to Montague Island, you’ll find Narooma offers a fantastic range of accommodation options to suit every style and budget. From beachfront camping sites and cozy waterfront cabins to stylish apartments and comfortable motels, there’s something for everyone. Popular choices include Surf Beach Holiday Park for those who love waking up to the sound of the ocean, Narooma Golfers Lodge for a relaxed stay, and Amooran Oceanside Apartments and Motel for a touch of luxury. If you’re after a quieter retreat, the nearby town of Bermagui offers charming alternatives and a laid-back vibe. With Montague Island being one of the most popular attractions in the region, it’s a good idea to book your accommodation in advance—especially during peak seasons—to ensure you get the most out of your visit. No matter where you stay, you’ll be perfectly placed to explore the island, meet the seals, and soak up the natural beauty of this incredible part of New South Wales.
FAQ: Your Burning Questions About Underwater Safaris
We get asked a lot of questions about these Montague Island wildlife experiences. Here are the answers to the trending ones.
How do I access Montague Island?
Montague Island is a protected nature reserve, and visitors must use authorized tour operators to access it. Independent access is not permitted. Most tours to Montague Island include a 25-minute boat trip from Narooma, as there are no roads leading to the island.What types of tours are available to Montague Island?
There are several Montague Island tours available, including the popular Barunguba Montague Island tour. These tours depart from Narooma and are offered by multiple operators. Options include guided snorkeling and diving trips suitable for both beginners and experienced adventurers, as well as wildlife viewing and eco-adventure experiences. The term 'montague island narooma' is often used to describe these boat-based excursions.Are there combo tours that include walking tours and seal encounters?
Yes, visitors can join combo tours that offer in-water seal encounters along with guided walking tours of Barunguba. These often include visits to historic sites like the island lighthouse, allowing you to explore both the marine life and the unique features of the island.What are the main features of Montague Island?
Montague Island is the largest island off the coast of New South Wales, except for Lord Howe Island. It is famous for its historic lighthouse, also known as the island lighthouse, which visitors can tour for panoramic views. The island is also renowned for its rich biodiversity and thriving seal colonies.Why is Montague Island important for conservation?
Montague Island is part of the montague island nature reserve. The protection of Montague Island has allowed wildlife, including seals, to thrive in the area, making it a significant site for conservation and eco-tourism.Do I need to be a strong swimmer to snorkel with the seals?
You need to be a confident swimmer and comfortable in the water, but you don’t need to be an Olympic swimmer. Because it’s a guided snorkelling Narooma experience, you’ll have a Dive Master in the water with you, and wetsuits provide plenty of buoyancy (they make you float!). For 'Discover Scuba Dive' options offered by some operators, no prior scuba diving experience is needed.Can I bring my own camera?
Absolutely! In fact, you should. The seals are super photogenic. If you don't have one, Underwater Safaris rents out GoPros so you can capture the madness.Is it cold?
It can be a bit fresh! The water temp varies, but Underwater Safaris provides good quality thick wetsuits to keep you toasty. Once the adrenaline of the Narooma seal swim kicks in, you won't even notice the cold.What happens if the weather is bad?
The skipper makes the call based on safety and comfort. If it's too rough, they won't go. They want you to have a good time, not a green time. They’ll usually try to reschedule you or refund if the conditions are unfishable (or un-diveable, in this case!).Are there toilets on the boat?
It's a Naiad rigid inflatable, so it's built for speed and stability, not luxury bathrooms. It's best to go before you leave the wharf at Apex Park!How close do the seals get?
Very close. They are wild animals, so we don't touch them, but they have no concept of personal space. They will often zoom right up to your mask. It's an incredible encounter.
