Seal Encounter Whilst Surfing in Scotland

In support of the Cornish Seal Sanctuary, Chris Robison,  ASI surfing instructor, shared this special seal encounter story.  

My most amazing encounter with a seal was whilst surfing at Cliff beach (Locally called Vhaltos) on the Isle of Lewis, Outer Hebrides, Scotland.

It was the spring of 2007 and I was on holiday and was on the beach on my own – as was often the case in the Hebrides (bit busier these days).

A seal popped its head up to see who was in its water space about 10 yards away. It came for a closer look about 5 mins later and on my next wave the seal was surfing the same wave about 5 yards along the wave.

The water is so clear this was easy to do. When I cut back off the wave the seal continued to the beach and sat on the beach looking at me.  10 mins later I surfed in and as I exited the water the seal splashed back out only 5 yards away with an occasional glance in my direction.

The whole experience was amazing and made me realise how intelligent these creatures are. Never felt threatened. Just happy to have some form of company in one of the most stunning parts of the world.

My wife even went so far to have a painting commissioned of me surfing the break by a local artist (Antony Barber – Ness, Isle of Lewis). It was a surprise present for my 50^th birthday.  Pictures of the beach and my painting are attached.

As an aside when I lived in Cornwall at Helston I would take my sons to the seal sanctuary on a regular basis. Amazing work.

Thanks Chris, it’s a great story, with lots of happy memories. !

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ASI is supporting the good work the Cornish Sanctuary is doing.  Sadly, they have suffered huge losses due to COVID lockdowns. 

The Cornish Seal Sanctuary is the ray of hope for injured baby seals, the Sanctuary’s r tireless efforts to rescue, rehabilitate and release these pups once they’ve been identified.

You can also donate to the Seal Sanctuary at:

https://www.justgiving.com/campaigns/charity/sealifemarineconservation/cornishsealsanctuary

Find out more about the UK’s seal population,  how you can help them and what to do if you encounter them whilst out paddling in our interview with the Cornish Seal Sanctuary https://www.academyofsurfing.com/news/tips-for-seal-encounters-and-the-cornish-seal-sanctuary

Send us your seal encounter stories if you want your very own, limited edition, Cornish Seal Sanctuary water bottle!   info@academyofsurfing.com

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