Snorkelling Barunguba Montague Island

One of the greatest snorkelling adventures in the Eurobodalla is a trip out to Barunguba Montague Island to snorkel and swim with the seals. Depending on the season, between 400 and 2000 New Zealand and Australian fur seals inhabit the iconic granite rocks that distinguish this special wildlife sanctuary, looked after by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service. The island is a destination for eco-tourists, whale watchers, lighthouse history buffs and divers looking for the endangered Grey Nurse Shark.

Less well-known is the unique opportunity to snorkel with the playful and curious island seals. Much of the water around the island is deep, so experience and confidence are a must, as is good weather, but the encounter with nature and the surreal view of the underwater kelp forest makes this a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

How to get there: Charter boats go out to the island from Narooma regularly. Tours can be booked for just snorkelling or combined with a tour of Barunguba Montague Island as a day trip or for a two-night stay in the refurbished lighthouse keeper’s quarters.