A Wild Encounter at Blakeney Point
A Coastal Adventure with the Seals of Blakeney Point
A visit to Blakeney Point, tucked along the wild and beautiful North Norfolk coast, offers one of the UK’s most magical wildlife encounters -seeing seals in their natural habitat! This four-mile spit of sand and shingle, part of a National Nature Reserve, is a haven for both grey and common seals, and it’s one of the largest seal colonies in England.
The best (and most exciting) way to visit the seals is by boat trip from the nearby villages of Morston or Blakeney. As your boat weaves through the salt marshes and out to the open water, the landscape reveals a pristine wilderness of tidal creeks, mudflats, and dunes. Just as you approach the point, you’ll spot them - hundreds of seals lounging on the sands or bobbing in the surf, their curious eyes watching as your boat floats quietly by. It’s peaceful, awe-inspiring, and totally unforgettable.
How to Get There: Boat Trip Operators
Several local operators offer fantastic guided trips, often with fascinating commentary from experienced skippers:
| Company | Highlights | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Beans Boat Trips | Long-established, family-run with daily trips to see seals and seabirds. | 📞 01263 740505 |
| Bishop’s Boats | Operating since 1965, known for knowledgeable guides and close-up seal views. | 📞 01263 740753 |
| Temple Seal Trips | Friendly, family-run with a pub-based ticket office and great birdwatching insights. | 📞 01263 740791 |
| John Bean Boat Trips | Over 80 years of experience, dog-friendly, and offers entertaining commentary. | 📞 01263 740625 |
| Ptarmigan Seal Trips | Purpose-built boat with daily sailings and a focus on wildlife education. | 📞 01263 740792 / 07563 332088 |
Most trips last about an hour and are tide-dependent, so booking ahead is highly recommended, especially in peak seasons. Boats typically depart from Morston Quay, where parking and National Trust facilities are available.
Depending on the time of year, you might catch the heart-melting sight of fluffy grey seal pups in winter, or in warmer months, enjoy the playful antics of common seals basking in the sun. Guided trips often highlight the area’s birdlife too—Blakeney is also a haven for terns, avocets, and migrating waders.
Be sure to bring your camera or binoculars, and dress for the sea breeze, even in summer! And if you’re in the mood for a bit more exploring, the wider Blakeney National Nature Reserve offers walking paths with sweeping coastal views, wildflowers, and endless photo opportunities.