Seals at Play

Beneath the waves and on the rocks — meet our playful local pups!

Autumn is one of the most exciting times to watch the young seals play and frolick in the water around the rocks.

Seal Rocks is home to one of Australia’s largest colonies of fur seals. Each summer, thousands of pups are born here, and by now, they’re brimming with curiosity, energy, and mischief. Think underwater acrobatics, tail-tag games, and the occasional “look-at-me!” flip in front of our boats. You’ll often find the young seals swimming right up to the boat — curious, cheeky, and clearly just as interested in us as we are in them.

Fun facts about the seals:

• Fur seal pups learn to swim just weeks after birth, but spend months perfecting their technique with daily dives and splashes.
• They’re incredibly social — often gathering in groups called “pods” where they learn through play.
• Their thick fur and streamlined bodies make them natural swimmers, making them the perfect underwater hunters

Perfecting their underwater skills is also an essential survival skill, as these young seals will soon have to fend for themselves and learn to evade predators (sharks & orcas) whilst in search of food away from the safety of Seal Rocks.

Our Seal Watching Cruise is the only way to see the colony up close from Phillip Island. With expert commentary and plenty of time to watch the pups in their natural habitat, it’s an unforgettable experience for nature-lovers of all ages.

These pups — and their rocky home — face ongoing threats from marine pollution, entanglement in fishing gear, and the impacts of climate change. Come learn about these fascinating marine mammals and how you can help ensure a safe future for them.

Join us on a Seal Cruise, say hello to the flippered locals, and prepare to fall in love with their playful charm.