A Heartwarming Day at A Seal: Exploring the Seal Rescue Hospital in Stellendam
Last weekend, Day and I had the pleasure of visiting A Seal, a seal rescue hospital in Stellendam, a hidden gem on the Dutch coast dedicated to the welfare of marine life. If you’re looking for a meaningful experience that combines education, inspiration, and heartwarming encounters with seals, this is a destination you can’t miss, and it was a day to remember.
The journey to Stellendam itself was a delight, with stunning views of the North Sea creating the perfect backdrop for a day of exploring marine conservation. Upon arrival, we were immediately struck by the calm, purposeful atmosphere of the facility—a haven where distressed seals are given a second chance at life.
The staff at A Seal guided us through the rehabilitation process, from medical treatments to release preparations. It was inspiring to see the dedication of the volunteers and learn how every task—from feeding to cleaning—plays a vital role in the seals’ recovery
An Inspirational Visit
One particular seal left a lasting impression on me. This young pup had been rescued after being entangled in discarded fishing gear. When he first arrived at the hospital, he was malnourished and weak. Seeing him now, splashing playfully in his pool, was nothing short of miraculous. His story is a poignant reminder of how human activity impacts wildlife—but also of the incredible work being done to reverse that damage.
Our tour of the facility was both educational and moving. Volunteers guided us through the process of rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing seals back into their natural habitat. We learned about the various treatments seals receive, from addressing infections to treating injuries caused by plastic waste and fishing nets.
One of the highlights of the visit was witnessing the dedication of the team of volunteers. Whether they were feeding the seals, cleaning enclosures, or assisting with medical care, their passion for marine conservation was evident in every task. Their work underscores the vital role that community support plays in protecting these vulnerable animals.
5 Reasons to Visit A Seal in Stellendam
1. Learn About Seal Rehabilitation
Witness firsthand how seals are rescued, treated, and prepared for release back into the wild. From treating injuries caused by fishing nets to nursing malnourished pups back to health, the team provides incredible care to these marine mammals.
2.Meet Inspiring Volunteers
The hospital thrives on the dedication of volunteers who handle everything from feeding seals to cleaning enclosures. Their passion for conservation is contagious, making your visit both educational and motivational.
3.Interactive Activities for All Ages
Younger visitors can enjoy seal-themed play areas, while adults can try cycling against a virtual seal to understand their speed and agility. These activities make learning about marine life engaging and fun.
4.Seal Caretaker for a Day Program
For an unforgettable experience, participate in the Seal Caretaker for a Day program. Assist with feeding, cleaning, and learning about seal health under expert supervision. Perfect for animal lovers aged 16 and above!
5.Support a Worthy Cause
Your visit directly supports the rescue and rehabilitation efforts. Every ticket, donation, or participation in a program contributes to saving seals and raising awareness about marine conservation.
6 Ways You Can Help Marine Conservation
While enjoying your visit, remember that marine conservation begins with everyday actions. Protecting marine life starts with everyday actions. Here are five simple ways you can make a difference:Here are five tips to help protect seals and their environment:
1.Properly Dispose of Waste Responsibly
Many seals suffer from injuries caused by plastic waste or fishing nets. Always recycle and dispose of trash responsibly to prevent it from ending up in the ocean.
2.Avoid Single-Use Plastics
Opt for reusable bags, bottles, and containers to reduce plastic pollution in marine habitats.
3.Respect Wildlife
If you encounter seals in the wild, admire them from a distance. Human interference can stress these animals, especially during breeding season.
4.Participate in Beach Cleanups
Join local initiatives to clean up coastal areas. Every piece of trash you collect helps create a safer environment for marine life.
5.Spread Awareness
Share your experience at A Seal with friends and family. Educating others about the impact of human activity on marine life encourages collective action.
6.Participate in Beach Cleanups
Join local cleanup initiatives to remove trash from beaches. Every piece of waste collected creates a safer environment for marine animals.
An Inspirational Visit
One particular seal left a lasting impression on me. This young pup had been rescued after being entangled in discarded fishing gear. When he first arrived at the hospital, he was malnourished and weak. Seeing him now, splashing playfully in his pool, was nothing short of miraculous. His story is a poignant reminder of how human activity impacts wildlife—but also of the incredible work being done to reverse that damage.
Our tour of the facility was both educational and moving. Volunteers guided us through the process of rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing seals back into their natural habitat. We learned about the various treatments seals receive, from addressing infections to treating injuries caused by plastic waste and fishing nets.
One of the highlights of the visit was witnessing the dedication of the team of volunteers. Whether they were feeding the seals, cleaning enclosures, or assisting with medical care, their passion for marine conservation was evident in every task. Their work underscores the vital role that community support plays in protecting these vulnerable animals.
Seal Caretaker for a Day: A Unique Experience
If you’re passionate about marine life, consider joining the Seal Caretaker for a Day program. For €200, participants aged 16 and older can work alongside an experienced caretaker. The program includes:
•Assisting with seal feeding and food preparation
•Helping to clean enclosures and support medical procedures
•Learning about the differences between healthy and sick seals
•Gaining insights into how you can contribute to conservation
•Enjoying a guided tour, lunch, coffee, and a certificate of participation
The program is a hands-on way to connect with seals and contribute to their welfare. Spaces are limited, so reservations are required.
For children aged 14–16, a junior caretaker program is also available. More details can be found on their website or by contacting zorg@aseal.nl.
My Personal Reflection
As I watched Finn, the young seal we met, interact with his caretakers, I was struck by the connection between humans and marine life. The hospital isn’t just a place for seals to heal—it’s a beacon of hope and a reminder of what we can achieve when we come together for a common cause.
If you’re ever near Stellendam, make time to visit A Seal. It’s an experience that will deepen your appreciation for marine life and inspire you to take action for conservation.
Plan Your Visit
•Location: Stellendam, Netherlands
•Activities: Guided tours, interactive exhibits, and educational programs
•Seal Caretaker for a Day: €200 per person (ages 16+)
•Junior Caretaker Program: Available for ages 14–16
For more information, visit A Seal’s official website.
Visiting A Seal in Stellendam is more than just a day out—it’s a chance to learn, connect, and make a positive impact. Whether you’re helping as a caretaker, enjoying interactive activities, or simply observing the seals, you’ll leave with a renewed sense of purpose and admiration for the natural world.
Next time you’re planning a meaningful outing by the sea, make A Seal your destination. It’s a visit that will warm your heart and inspire you to join the fight for marine conservation. Don’t wait—book your visit today!
Thanks for joining us on our journey!
We’re Day & Nicole, an adventurous mother-daughter duo who thrive on exploring the world and creating unforgettable lasting memories. Whether it’s the scent of fresh mountain air, the taste of local cuisine, or the warmth of a cozy hotel, we love experiencing every corner of life together.There’s nothing we love more than being on the move, we’re always ready for the next wild adventure.
Through our travels, we aim to inspire others by sharing our personal stories and honest reviews of the incredible places we stay. From luxurious retreats to charming hideaways, we’re here to help you discover destinations that will spark your own sense of adventure.
With a passion for photography, we capture every moment to share through this blog. From breathtaking hotels to unique experiences, we’re here to bring you along as we see, feel, and explore it all. Let’s turn every trip into a story worth telling!
