Playful wildlife interaction — the seals are naturally curious and often come right up to divers.
Scuba Dive With Seals Near Sydney
PADI 5-Star Centre
Double Boat Dive
Trusted Since 2000
Wild Seal Encounters
One of Sydney’s most memorable local dives — playful seals, easy access from Port Kembla, and a full day of underwater fun.
Location Martin Island, departing from Port Kembla Wharf
Includes Double boat dive, divemaster services, and a light lunch between dives
Best for Certified divers who want an unforgettable marine-life experience close to Sydney
Upcoming Seal Dives
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Port Kembla departure • Double boat dive • Light lunch included
Real Abyss seal dive footageWhy Divers Love Diving With Seals
Australian fur seals are curious, playful, and often eager to interact. This is not a distant wildlife sighting — it is one of those dives people talk about long after they get out of the water.
- Playful close-up encounters with wild seals
- Easy local day trip from Sydney to Port Kembla
- Perfect for divers wanting a fun, high-reward dive adventure
Why This Dive Is So Popular
Four reasons divers keep coming back for the Martin Island seal dive.
Easy day trip — just drive to Port Kembla and jump on the boat. No overnight commitment required.
High fun factor — this is one of the most smile-inducing dives you can do near Sydney.
Well organised by Abyss — experienced team, clear logistics, and a relaxed day on the water.
What’s Included in the Seal Dive
- Double boat dive at Martin Island
- Divemaster services
- Light lunch between dives
- Fun local wildlife experience near Sydney
Important to Know
- You need to make your own way to Port Kembla Wharf
- Gear hire should be collected from Abyss in Ramsgate before heading south
- If you have not dived in the past 12 months, a refresher course is recommended
- Private divemaster service is available for an additional $199
Pickup and Travel
Pickup is at Port Kembla Wharf, around 1 hour 15 minutes from Abyss Scuba Diving in Ramsgate. The drive is straightforward via Rocky Point Road and the M1 towards Wollongong, with parking available at the wharf.
Who This Dive Suits
This dive is ideal for certified divers who want a high-fun marine life experience. If you are not yet a diver, our snorkelling with seals option is better suited for non-divers.
Please note: there are normally 20–80 seals around the island, but they are wild animals, so we cannot guarantee their presence or how they interact on the day.
Tips to Maximise Your Seal Diving Fun
- Stay shallow when appropriate — seals often play near the surface, and shallower profiles can mean more interaction time.
- Bring an underwater camera — this is one of Sydney’s best dives for memorable photos and video.
- Be playful — twisting, turning, and moving gently can help hold the seals’ interest.
- Bring a snorkel — seals often stay high in the water, so a snorkel can add to the fun between scuba moments.
- Stay relaxed and patient — they are wild animals, and the best encounters often happen when you are calm.
- Use bright gear if you have it — curious seals often notice colourful equipment.
- Observe before chasing — let the seals come to you rather than trying to force the interaction.
- Stay hydrated and energised — a comfortable diver enjoys the day much more.
What Divers Say About Their Seal Dives
Real reviews from divers who have joined us on seal dives and other Abyss adventures
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be certified to do the seal dive?
Yes. This is a scuba dive for certified divers. If you are not certified, take a look at our snorkelling with seals option or our dive training courses.
Where does the seal dive depart from?
The dive departs from Port Kembla Wharf. You will need to make your own way there, and if you need hire gear, collect it from Abyss in Ramsgate before driving south.
What is included?
The day includes two boat dives, divemaster services, and a light lunch between dives.
How close do the seals get?
Australian fur seals are naturally curious and playful. They often come very close to divers, but they are wild animals, so every day is different.
What if I have not dived in a while?
If you have not dived in the past 12 months, we recommend doing a refresher course before joining the seal dive.
Can non-divers join?
Non-divers should book our swim with seals experience instead.
Is there a guarantee I will see seals?
No. There are usually plenty of seals around Martin Island, but they are wild animals and sightings or interactions can never be guaranteed.
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