There are two kinds of seals that live and breed in the Wadden Sea National Park: grey seal and common seal. They can be spotted both in water with their heads sticking above the surface and on sandy beaches where they lay and sunbathe, sometimes in large groups.
Since the seals are wild animals and they raise their pups in this area, you should be respectful while watching them. The most sustainable way to do it is during an organised boat trip from the sea. Another way is just to hike to the beach during tidal flats. But in this case, keep the distance not to disturb the animals.
The seal safari tours usually run from June through September. The best location to start from is the mainland town of Ribe towards Mandø island, with the highest concentration of the seals on the Koresand sand bank south-west of the island. Another place where you could start your boat tour is Esbjerg, with large numbers of seals sunbathing on the shores of Fanø Island.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit Denmark for seal watching in the Wadden Sea?
The seal safari tours usually run from June through September, which is the best time to visit Denmark for seal watching in the Wadden Sea. Seals are more active during this period, increasing visitors' chances of sighting them either in the water or on the beach. To avoid disturbing these animals, visitors are advised to be respectful since it is also breeding season for the seals. Show more
Where are the best places to start a boat tour to watch seals in Denmark?
If you want to embark on a boat tour for seal watching in Denmark, Ribe and Esbjerg are the two best locations to start. You can find the highest concentration of seals on the Koresand sand bank south-west of Mandø island, which is close to the mainland town of Ribe. However, in Esbjerg, you can find large numbers of seals basking on the sands of Fanø Island. Multiple local companies provide charter services and bookings for boat tours in the area. Show more
How can I ensure that I don't disturb the seals while watching them on tidal flats?
Maintaining a respectful distance from seals is crucial to avoid disrupting their natural activities while sighting them on the tidal flats. Binoculars are an excellent tool for watchers to view the seals from a distance. Experienced crew members lead guided boat tours according to strict codes of conduct that respect the seals' natural habitat and ensure visitors' safety while sight-seeing the animals. Visitors are advised to respect the seals since they are wild animals. Show more
What is the difference between grey seal and common seal?
The Wadden Sea National Park features two kinds of seals, the grey seal and the common seal, which sight-seers can spot on tidal flats or sandy beaches from June to September. Common seals are smaller, weighing around 100-150kg and inhabit Northern Europe's coastlines. Grey seals are heavier and can weigh up to 400 kg, typically residing on North Atlantic rocky shores. Show more
Are there any other wildlife watching opportunities in the Wadden Sea National Park besides seals?
The Wadden Sea National Park in Denmark offers several opportunities for migratory and coastal bird watching besides seals. Rare and exotic species, including dunlin, red knot, and dark-bellied geese, are among the many bird species visitors can sight. The park's unique flora and fauna attracts nature and environment enthusiasts, and visitors can observe plant and animal biodiversity distinct to the Wadden Sea's ecosystem. Show more
