Seal Spotting in Antarctica

Location: Antarctica

Recommended by Me, The Directionally Challenged Traveler

How do I know it’s ethical?

Seal spotting in Antarctica features wild seals without any human interaction. Any Antarctica cruises must be certified by the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators (IAATO) in how to keep a safe distance from the animals to protect them. Depending on the type of seal on land, the tour guide will block off the area so you can’t get too close. A guide stands nearby to keep an eye on the seal and if it moves or gets agitated.

Description of the Experience

Seal spotting goes hand in hand with penguin spotting – often spotting the two species together! There are six different species of seal that live in the waters of Antarctica. Ross, Weddell, crabeater, leopard, fur, and elephant seals all call the ice continent home.

The most dangerous of these seals are the leopard and elephant seals. Leopard seals are known to be dangerous predators and have the teeth to prove it. Elephant seals are large and have been known to attack and kill humans when threatened. For these reasons, if the animals are on land, tours give them enough room to relax from humans and easy access to the water (where they feel most comfortable).

Seals can be spotted on land, swimming in the water, or sunbathing on icebergs, so keep an eye out and see if you can find all 6 types!

Company/ Cost

Depends on the company you visit with, but usually included in the cruise.

I cruised to Antarctica with Hurtigruten cruises and I recommend them to anyone who asks.

Be sure to connect with me on Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.

Save This Post For Later

This is one post on a series of ethical animal tourism posts by travel content creators. The experiences cover all seven continents and a variety of animals. Ensure that your animal experience is an ethical one.

Discover more experiences