Family Outing: 2011 Seal Cruises on Long Island’s Hempstead Bay

Seal Sightings

Brave the cold this winter and climb aboard the Captain Lou Fleet for a Seal Cruise. Sponsored by the Riverhead Foundation for Marine Research and Preservation, these chilly cruises allow Long Islanders to get up close with the winter wildlife population in the Hempstead Bay. You’ll discover the seal population that migrates to the bay in search of food during Long Island’s coldest months. The most frequent sight is harbor seals, the most populous seal species in our area, which can grow up to six feet in length and weigh as much as 250 pounds. Sailors on the Captain Lou may also catch a glimpse of some larger gray seals, which live in the North Atlantic, and even some Arctic species like harp, hooded, and ringed seals. A naturalist will be on board to discuss the biology and behavior of seals and other marine life encountered during the cruise, as well as to introduce passengers to a variety of natural artifacts from the bay. The boat’s cabin is heated, but sailors can venture onto its deck to peer over the rails at any wildlife that appears (just be sure to dress warmly!). Passengers are also encouraged to bring binoculars to get a closer look.

The Riverhead Foundation is a non-profit organization with a mission to preserve and protect our marine environment through education, rehabilitation, and research. It is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of seals, sea turtles, whales, dolphins, and porpoises, all of which are protected under New York State and federal law. The foundation, which is located within the Atlantis Marine World aquarium, operates the New York State Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Rescue Program, and proceeds from the Seal Cruises benefit this program.

Also see: Our Online Calendar, for even more family activities on Long Island and throughout the New York metro area