Seal Swim - an unforgettable wildlife experience!

Join the playful and curious seals of the Tonga Island Seal Colony in their environment – the crisp, clear, sparkling waters of the Abel Tasman National Park.

We depart from Kaiteriteri Beach, voted as one of the top five beaches in the world by the UK Guardian in 2003. This is an idyllic spot, not to be missed. Our journey includes a one hour scenic water-taxi ride through the world-renowned natural beauty of the Abel Tasman National Park. We pass dozens of stunning coves and golden sand beaches on our way. Our final destination is the middle of Tonga Island Marine Reserve established ten years ago. This is where we jump in!

We pride ourselves on our excellent safety standards. Before departure, there is a full and in-depth safety briefing. All swimmers are provided with a wet-suit, flippers, and snorkel gear. Our steady support boat is ready to provide assistance at all times. We’ll serve up a piping hot drink for all straight after your swim. Sit back and enjoy, while your guide tells you a tale or two.

With our small group numbers, your experience will be warm and personal. We are moved by the beauty of this area and the seals every day. We are genuinely excited to share this all with you!

The Abel Tasman Seal Swim is true Magic! Join us for a wildlife experience of a lifetime and let the Seal Swim wonders begin!

Seal Swim

A wildlife experience of a lifetime

You'll meet your guide and participate in an entertaining, interesting and thorough briefing at our base in Kaiteriteri.

We kit up and get comfortable with all the gear before we embark on the one hour scenic water-taxi ride up to Tonga Island Seal Colony.

Now we swim with the seals – Magic! Afterwards, sit back, with a piping hot drink, while listening to a tale or two.

Return to Kaiteriteri by water taxi. A hot shower is available upon arrival.

Swim with the seals
Aqua Taxi ride
Guided Walk as option (see below)
Check-in 9:15am or 11am*. View Schedule
Adults $149 / Children $120

* Times are tide dependant and will be confirmed upon booking

Seal Watch

Amazing seals while you're dry

If getting wet isn’t your thing then your guide and boat driver ensure that you get a great insight into both the Abel Tasman and the life of NZ fur seals as a stay-on-board passenger.

Seals
Aqua Taxi ride
Guided Walk as option (see below)
Check-in 9:15am or 11am*. View Schedule
Adults $70 / Children $50

Walk Option

Explore the land too

Fancy a walk in the park after your seal experience? On days with a 9:15 AM departure, you have the option of a short walk after the Seal Swim. Walk from Onetahuti Beach to Bark Bay (1.5 hours) where the 4pm Aqua Taxi will pick you up and bring you back to Kaiteriteri. Add $25 to the cost of the trip as above.

Abel Tasman Tour Map - View a map showing the tour routes.

Season Schedule

Seal Swims start again in December 2007. View the Seal Swim Schedule for check-in times.