Seal Watching in Estonia – 5 Reasons to Go on a Seal Safari!
Avaldatud: 20. March 2025
Is it possible to see seals in Estonia? Of course it is!
From July to September, we offer regular seal-watching trips in Northern Estonia that anyone can join! For private groups, seal safaris can be arranged from April to October. This is a rare opportunity to observe these amazing marine animals in their natural habitat. But our trips are more than just watching—we also play classical music for the seals and explore the small islands of Kolga Bay. So why should you join a seal-watching tour, and what else is there to know about these lovely creatures?
1. Seals are rare – let’s get to know them better
Two main seal species live in Estonia: the grey seal and the ringed seal. Occasionally, the rarer bearded seal may also appear. Historically, there were up to 100,000 grey seals in the Baltic Sea, but due to extensive hunting, their numbers dropped to just 4,000 by the 1970s. Thanks to conservation efforts, the population is growing again, and grey seals are no longer endangered.
Ringed seals, however, are more vulnerable to climate change, as they give birth in ice dens and warm winters hinder population growth. The largest population of ringed seals in the Baltic Sea is found in the northern part of the Bothnian Bay (about 4,000 individuals), but in the Gulf of Finland, there are only a few hundred.
2. Seals love classical music – let’s test it out!
In 1894, two brothers, Aleksander and Gustav Aksberg from Aksi Island, were sailing home from Oulu and began playing the violin and harmonium on their boat. To their surprise, dozens of seals started following their vessel as if drawn to the music.
Years later, we decided to try the legend ourselves—and it’s true! When we play classical music, the seals often swim closer to the boat. Does it always happen? Come and see for yourself!
3. Learn fascinating facts about Baltic Sea seals
In the Malusi Islands, we usually spot grey seals, which are around 180 cm long and weigh up to 200 kg. The smallest Baltic seal is the ringed seal, averaging 1–1.4 meters in length and weighing 40–80 kg. For comparison, the world’s largest seal species is the southern elephant seal, which can reach 5 meters in length and weigh up to 3,850 kg!
4. Explore Estonia’s mysterious small islands
Kolga Bay is home to many small, intriguing islands with rich histories. On our trip, you’ll learn where Rohusi and Umblu Islands are located, what life was like for seal hunters on Koipsi and Rammu, and explore the Malusi archipelago—where seals feel most at home.
5. Sea air, nature, and adventure – the perfect way to spend time!
What could be better than good company, fresh sea breeze, and the chance to observe seals in their natural surroundings? Seal watching in Estonia is a unique nature experience not to be missed.
How to join a seal safari?
– For smaller groups, we recommend joining our scheduled seal-watching trips.
– For private groups, you can book a custom sea tour from April to October here.
