Boulders Beach Penguins and Seal Island Boat Trip — Half-Day from Cape Town
A compact half-day outing from Cape Town that pairs a one-hour Seal Island cruise with boardwalk viewing of the endangered African penguin at Boulders Beach. Expect scenic coastal driving, wind-swept boat time, and close but regulated encounters with local wildlife.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress for wind and spray
Even on sunny days the harbor is windy; a lightweight windproof jacket will keep you comfortable during the boat cruise.
Bring sunscreen and a hat
Boardwalks and viewpoints offer little shade—UV exposure can be strong, especially in summer months.
Prep for seasickness
The Seal Island crossing can be choppy; take motion-sickness medication in advance if you’re prone to seasickness.
Respect wildlife boundaries
Stay on boardwalks, keep noise low, and do not feed or touch penguins and seals to protect the colony and yourself.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Chapman’s Peak viewpoint for uninterrupted coastal panoramas
- •Hout Bay Market and Mariner’s Wharf for fresh fish and local crafts after the cruise
Wildlife
- •African penguin (jackass penguin)
- •Cape fur seal
Conservation Note
Boulders Beach viewing is managed with boardwalks and restricted access to nesting sites; support local conservation by following rules and avoiding single-use plastics during visits.
The African penguin colony at Boulders established from a few breeding pairs in the early 1980s and has since become a focal point for conservation efforts in the region.
What to Bring
Windproof jacketEssential
Blocks cold gusts and spray during the boat cruise and at exposed viewpoints.
Sunscreen and hatEssential
Protects against strong UV radiation on the boardwalks and open deck.
Binoculars or zoom lens
Helps you observe penguins and seals without approaching nests or rookeries.
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Stable, closed shoes are useful for walking on boardwalks, harbor ramps, and short sections of uneven ground.
Common Questions
Is entry to Boulders Beach included?
Yes — the tour description lists admission to Boulders Beach as included, so you can use the boardwalks to view the penguin colony.
How long is the Seal Island cruise?
The Seal Island cruise is approximately one hour and departs from Hout Bay Harbour as part of the half-day itinerary.
Is the tour accessible for people with limited mobility?
The operator notes wheelchair accessibility and stroller-friendly surfaces for much of the experience, but boat boarding may require assistance—notify booking for specific arrangements.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours may operate in varied conditions, but rough seas can affect the cruise; cancellation and refund policies typically allow a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance and tours may be cancelled if insufficient travelers join.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3–4 hours
Location
Hout Bay, Western Cape
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short periods of standing, boarding a small boat, and walking on flat boardwalks.
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