The moment a seal tags along for a ride on a paddle board

Watch the moment a seal surprises a paddleboarder


A paddleboarder had a surprising companion off the coast of Poole this week, while out enjoying the sunshine.  

A seal popped up out of the water beside them, and without warning, climbed on board.

Cenk Albayrak-Touye was out making the most of the warm weather on Monday (31 May) when the unexpected guest appeared.

He said: "The seal was just bobbing its head up, up and down beside me and I thought that's a great shot.

"Next thing I know he's on my paddle board and having a sunbathe and then the rest is in the video, relaxing and enjoying the sun. Didn't mind that I was there one bit."

After a few moments on board, the seal took off again into the water.

Credit: Cenk Albayrak-Touye

According to the Cornwall Seal Group, if you spot a seal when out in the water, the advice is to:

  • Always let seals make the first move – let them approach you.

  • Sit back, wait quietly and observe.

  • Aim to stay calm and move slowly to avoid spooking the seals and provoking an aggressive response.

  • Be confident that seals are generally gentle creatures unless theyfeel threatened.