Nick Pelios
Freediver, Creator
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Nick Pelios
Freediver, Creator
Lundy Island, a remote Marine Nature Reserve in the Bristol Channel, has become a prime location for marine enthusiasts seeking to encounter one of the UK’s most charismatic sea creatures—the Atlantic grey seal pups. Recently, a group of freedivers, including Bingqian Gao, took the plunge into the island's cool waters, capturing what can only be described as a heartwarming experience.
Setting off from the small coastal town of Ilfracombe, the group boarded a catamaran for the two-hour journey to Lundy Island. Despite choppy seas, the anticipation of meeting the seals kept spirits high as they approached the island’s eastern side, a popular spot for marine life. Lundy, just 11 miles off the North Devon coast, is well known for its vibrant kelp forests and clear, shallow waters—perfect conditions for freedivers looking to explore beneath the waves.
As the divers descended into the 17°C water, they found themselves surrounded by thriving kelp forests swaying gently in the current. It wasn’t long before the true stars of the dive made their appearance: the curious Atlantic grey seal pups. These playful animals, known for their large, round eyes and inquisitive nature, wasted no time in approaching the divers, and engaging in playful interactions.
What began as a simple freedive quickly turned into an interactive game with the seals. The pups, brimming with energy and curiosity, swam right up to the divers, often nibbling on fins or gently bumping into them. The seals seemed particularly fascinated by the freedivers’ equipment, chasing after fins and even tugging on them, turning the dive into what felt like a game of underwater tag.
“The more I swam away, the more excited they got, chasing after my fins and trying to nibble at them,” said Bingqian, whose dives were captured on film. “At first, I was worried they might damage my gear, but their bites were gentle and affectionate.”
One especially endearing moment occurred when a seal pup rested on Bingqian’s fins, using them as a bed while it closed its eyes in contentment. The playful antics didn’t stop underwater—when the divers surfaced for air, the seals would often pop up right beside them, staring with what could only be described as disappointed expressions, as if to say, "Why are you leaving so soon?"
For freedivers, the chance to interact with such inquisitive marine animals is a rare and special experience. The Atlantic grey seal pups seemed to delight in the company of the divers, sneaking up from behind and following them as they swam, often initiating playful encounters. Despite the seals’ friendly nature, it is crucial to remember that they are wild animals, and interactions should be respectful to preserve the integrity of their natural habitat.
Lundy Island, with its protected status, offers one of the most immersive marine experiences available in the UK. The island's rich biodiversity, from the kelp forests below to the seabirds above, provides a unique backdrop for anyone looking to connect with nature in an up-close and personal way.
While the seals were undeniably the stars of the dive, it’s important to approach such interactions with care. Lundy’s protected waters are home to a range of marine species, and freedivers must ensure they are not disturbing the animals. Bingqian and her team, mindful of the seals’ playful behaviour, made sure to keep a respectful distance, allowing the seals to approach on their own terms.
For freedivers planning to visit Lundy, the advice is simple: be patient, be respectful, and be ready for an unforgettable experience. The Atlantic grey seal pups, with their playful energy and endless curiosity, offer a unique and heartwarming encounter that will stay with divers long after they leave the water.