Hayling Boat Trips offer a 1.5 hour seal watching boat trip led by Captain Glen. You’ll head out from Northney Marina aboard small, comfortable boat — perfectly suited for nature lovers and families seeking a calm, immersive experience.
As you venture quietly past mudflats and saltmarsh edges, keep your eyes peeled for the resident seal population. These curious and playful creatures often bask on the banks or slip gracefully into the water, giving you a unique chance to observe them in their natural habitat. The close, intimate nature of the tour makes every moment feel special.
Hayling Boat Trips Booking & Cost Details
Booking is simple and completed directly via the Hayling Boat Trips website under the “Book Here” section. Regular tours run from around £16 for children aged 3–16, while adults pay £29.50; OAPs are usually charged £27.50, and children under three go free. Be sure to arrive ahead of departure time — typically fifteen minutes early — and check the cancellation policy (refunds offered only if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance).
Why It's Ideal for Families
This tour offers a splendid balance of excitement and ease. Children are captivated by the sights and sounds of wildlife. Parents appreciate the peaceful ride and opportunity to read the harbour’s natural stories—in bird calls, seal movements, and sweeping views of salt marsh and open water. Film buffs or budding naturalists will relish the short films and videos offered by Hayling Boat Trips, showcasing seal moments. The whole outing feels calm, engaging, and wonderfully connected to nature.
Exploring Chichester Harbour & the Wider Landscape
Chichester Harbour is more than just a beautiful spot—it’s a protected landscape with international importance. Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) back in 1964, it spans some 74 km² of rich terrain woven by deep channels, salt marshes, mudflats and woodland. It’s also a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) noted for its rare habitats and high biodiversity.
Managed by the Chichester Harbour Conservancy, this is a landscape where conservation and recreation go hand in hand. The Conservancy works to protect wildlife, support nature recovery (especially salt marsh restoration) and ensure public access in harmony with nature.
A Nourishing Day Out
Just a short walk across the hotel car park to the Marina entrance and around to the pontoon slip. The boat tour offers a gentle, engaging introduction to seal behaviour, birdlife and the wider harbour ecology.
Afterward, families might extend the day with a short walk along the shoreline, exploring North Common — even something as simple as watching waders feeding at low tide can feel magical. Or simply linger, sharing highlights and capturing photos to remember.
Why Families Love It...
This experience stands out as a fun, accessible way to bring wildlife close without feeling rushed. It’s educational—naturally so—instilling awareness and wonder. And it’s affordable, well-organised, and suited to all ages.
All told, this 1.5-hour seal-watching cruise is a perfect family treat: wildlife-rich, relaxing, and deeply connected to one of England’s most treasured coastal landscapes. Let your family story begin here—with seals, harbour life, and gentle waves as your backdrop.
