Want to explore the underwater world? Our section « Set Sail » takes you to discover sea lions, these playful and curious marine mammals. Prepare your fins, head to Argentina, Canada, and New Zealand for an unforgettable experience.
1. Argentina: The Valdés Peninsula, an Unknown Jewel
A Sanctuary of Marine Biodiversity
The Valdés Peninsula, located in Argentine Patagonia, has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1999. This jewel of the Atlantic coast harbors exceptionally rich marine life. You’ll find colonies of sea lions at Punto Loma, accessible by scuba diving or snorkeling.
Immersion with the Sea Lions
Imagine yourself in the water, surrounded by curious sea lions playing with your bubbles and nibbling at your fins. These graceful and fast animals will offer you memorable interactions. Others will bask in the sun on the rocks. The peninsula is also a refuge for southern right whales, which come to give birth from September to March and approach boats with curiosity.
Exceptional Wildlife
From September to December, you’ll have the chance to observe a multitude of species: orcas, dolphins, penguins, elephant seals, and a variety of seabirds such as cormorants and terns.
The Land Adventure
Explore the arid landscapes and steep cliffs where many birds nest. Visit Puerto Madryn and Puerto Piramides, two towns focused on the sea, and go kayaking along the coast.
Practical Information
- Time difference: -4h (winter), -5h (summer).
- Water temperature: 16-18°C.
- Ideal season: All year for sea lions, September to December for species diversity.
- Equipment: 7 mm wetsuit.
- Level: Beginner to advanced, snorkeling available.
- Budget: Approximately 100 € for a snorkeling trip.
- Contacts: Bucea Hoy (www.buceahoy.com.ar), Voyages Excepción (www.argentina-excepcion.com).
2. Canada: The Mythical West, Among Sea Lions, Seals, and Marine Lions
Diving in British Columbia
British Columbia attracts daring divers. Its emerald waters are home to fascinating species like the wolf fish and giant jellyfish. Off the coast of Vancouver, you’ll discover colonies of Steller sea lions and California sea lions lounging on rocks and playing in the water.
Unforgettable Encounters at Vivian Island
At Vivian Island, in scuba diving or snorkeling, sea lions approach with curiosity. Although there is no longer a diving center on Hornby Island, excursions are organized from Vancouver.
The Herring Spawn Frenzy
From December to March, during the herring spawn, sea lions become particularly active, swimming at incredible speeds around divers. Watch your fins; they love to nibble them! The Race Rock Ecological Reserve is also home to hundreds of sea lions, especially in the fall. Remember not to disturb the animals. At Pam Rocks, you can swim with harbor seals.
Explore British Columbia
Visit Vancouver Island, its historical center and modern part, and dive into the majestic forests of British Columbia.
Practical Information
- Time difference: -8h (winter), -7h (summer).
- Water temperature: 10-14°C.
- Ideal season: October to April.
- Equipment: 7 mm or dry suit.
- Level: Beginner to advanced, possible currents.
- Budget: Approximately 70 € per dive.
- Contacts: Vancouver and surrounding diving centers.
3. New Zealand: At the End of the World with Fur Seals
A Paradise for Sea Lions
New Zealand waters are home to two main otariid species: New Zealand fur seals and sea lions. You’ll observe them on the coasts, particularly on the South Island.
Spontaneous Encounters
Although there are no dedicated diving sites, sea lions often join your dives, especially on the east coast, between Dunedin and Kaikoura. These waters are also frequented by orcas, dolphins, and whales.
Aquatic Games
In diving, sea lions are very playful, moving swiftly among the kelp forests. In Kaikoura, join a guided snorkeling session with these animals. On Stewart Island, snorkel with colonies of sea lions.
Coastal Exploration
Around the South Island, sea lions are everywhere! By kayak or on foot, explore the Otago region, Golden Bay, Fiordland National Park, the west coast, and Abel Tasman National Park.
Land Adventure
The South Island, with its mountains, glaciers, lakes, and waterfalls, is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers. Try to spot the kiwi, the archipelago’s iconic bird, particularly on Stewart Island.
Practical Information
- Time difference: +12h (summer), +13h (winter).
- Water temperature: 8°C (May-September), 15°C (October-April).
- Ideal season: October to April.
- Equipment: 5 to 7 mm wetsuit.
- Level: Beginner to advanced, snorkeling accessible to everyone.
- Budget: Approximately 85 € for a guided snorkeling trip (2-3h), 150 € for a diving trip.
- Contacts: Local diving clubs.
The Experts’ Choice: Professionals Share Their Favorite Spots
South Africa: The Ultramarina Experience Near Cape Town
Justine, from the Ultramarina agency, recommends Simon’s Town, near Cape Town, to dive with playful and curious fur seals. You can also observe broadnose sevengill sharks, striped catsharks, and leopard sharks in the kelp forests.
- More info: 7-night stay at the Mariner Guesthouse & Villa, flights and breakfasts included + 10-dive package, starting at 1,825 € (www.ultramarina.com).
Mexico: Adventure Spots in the Sea of Cortés
Sandrine, from the Spots d’évasion agency, invites you to explore the Sea of Cortés, with a combination of La Paz and Cabo Pulmo. In La Paz, discover Swanee Reef and Los Islotes, home to over 200 California brown sea lions. Near Cabo Pulmo, head to La Lobera. The dives are around rocks where sea lions lounge.
- More info: 8-night stay including flights, breakfasts, and 12 dives (including 8 with lunch) starting at 3,100 € (www.spots-evasion.com).
GPS Coordinates
- Argentina: 42° 46′ 22″ S – 065° 02′ 11″ W
- Canada: 49° 50’ 26” N – 124° 42′ 05” W
- New Zealand: 46° 53’ 52” S – 168° 07’ 41” E
- South Africa: 34° 11’ 36” S – 018° 25’ 38” E
- Mexico: 24° 09’ 43” N – 110° 18’ 57” W
This article, originally written by Margot Harty for the print edition of PLONGEZ!, has been adapted for the web.