Frequently asked questions about our Seabed Walks in Jersey

How much do the walks cost?

Why do I need to book in advance?

All our walks operate to a set ratio of staff to clients. This is both for your safety and to ensure a quality experience. Large groups tend to move slower, and people do not have time to ask questions and discover this remarkable environment. In a large group, it is easy to be at the rear and not hear explanations or find the walk turning into a long “crocodile line” with minimal interaction.

Do I need to be a very fit walker?

Walking is a physical activity; our walks range from 1 to 7 miles. We stop and look at things, so the walks are not constantly on the move. Most of our walks might be called rambles. The longer walks have fewer stops to ensure we catch the low tide in time. If you are okay walking about 3 miles on a coastal or forest path, you should be okay on our Seymour Tower walks.

Are the seabed walks dangerous?

You will be walking with very experienced and trained local guides. They often walk and explore the intertidal zone in their own time and are active in the marine biology and environment of the area.

Derek’s family has lived on the southeast coast for almost 100 years. He trains all Jersey Walk Adventures staff and the Jersey Heritage Seymour Tower guides. Our guides operate within a written set of operating limits and policies. This level of knowledge and experience reduces the risks of becoming cut off by rising tides. The speed of the rising tide should not be underestimated. It really can rise at up to 3 inches per minute. Our safety practices are designed to ensure walkers are out of the area before they might get cut off.

Watch a short video of the Rising tides in Jersey.

Why are departure points not listed on the Website?

On all our walks, we limit the numbers booked. Departure points are advised when you book. This enables us to ensure we have the correct number of guides on each walk and reduces the problem of unexpected people turning up, which can compromise our safety standards. Organising unexpected clients at the departure point takes time in an environment where the sea waits for no one.

This approach also reduces the problem of non-booked people arriving and following our parties, believing they will stay safe because they are following us. We consider this practice irresponsible as it places an unacceptable responsibility on our guides should those following our party have an accident.

If you are not confident that you understand the tides and gullies in this area, you should only go with a guide or someone with good local knowledge.

How can I find the starting point?

Use this map. People sometimes get muddled between our departure points at Le Hocq and La Rocque Harbour! Use a map to double-check.

What bus route are the departure points on?

The route 1 bus. This is one of the most frequent routes in Jersey. Timetables.

What happens once I book?

Once payment is received, an email booking confirmation with essential information is sent out. This lists the date, times, venue, what to wear, map links to our starting points, and bus timetable link via the map page. Please ensure everyone in your party is informed.

What happens if I change my mind and want to rebook or cancel?

You can rebook via the link in your email confirmation up to 24 hours before the walk. If you cancel your booking, an administration charge covers the cost of processing the refund to your payment card. See our terms and conditions.

Why do you take payment when booking and not on the day?

To reduce no-shows. We limit the numbers on the tours for safety reasons, so places on all our walks are limited.

I am late

The tide will not wait. Sorry, but we will not wait for late arrivals. It is unfair to other people booked on the trip who must wait for you. If you call the office, it may be impossible to contact the guides once they are at the venue.

What if it rains?

We live in a maritime climate, and weather constantly changes. We will walk in rain showers. If you only want to walk on a sunny day, it is best to take a chance and leave the booking until the last moment. However, you might find the walk is fully booked. We monitor the rain radar and check weather forecasts before departing.

Dress for the weather conditions, and remember it may feel cooler offshore.

What footwear and clothing do I need?

See the What to wear page.

Footwear must be suitable for walking over uneven, wet, and sometimes slippery surfaces. Shoes should be comfortable and well-fitting, ideally with ankle support. Trainers are fine. Any footwear will get wet. Wellington boots must be well-fitting, as Wellington boots can become uncomfortable on a walk of 2 hours or more. Crocs and socks – this may sound fuddy-duddy, but socks prevent you from getting your skin rubbed by bits of sand. In general, we do not recommend Crocs as they don’t give enough support to the feet, especially for children.

We can loan Wellington Boots or Water-shoes for £1 per pair if booked in advance.

Can I eat shellfish, seaweed, fungi, etc., during the walks?

Eat at your own risk. Our coastal areas have very good water quality. If you are gathering, take only what you will eat, which is also above the minimum catch sizes.

Learn more about low-water fishing in Jersey, shellfish and minimum sizes here.

Sea water quality data in Jersey.

Can I bring my dog?

Dogs are welcome with considerate owners, providing they remain on a lead.

Dogs on beaches in Jersey

From 1 May to 30 September, the law requires that all dogs walking on beaches in Jersey are on a lead. At other times, we insist dogs are kept on a lead to reduce the risk of catching them in fishing lines in the inter-tidal zone. Also, the cumulative impact of dogs chasing after birds can seriously impact the breeding success of sea birds. Plus, if your dog runs off after a bird etc., it may get lost amongst the rocks and gullies.

Can Children come on your walks?

We are happy to take children on our walks. Most children love the huge “zoo” of marine mini-beasts and spot many fascinating creatures. Parents are usually the best judge of whether their youngsters may find the time rather long or are happy to walk up to 3 miles/4.5 km.

There are many stops to explore a puddle and collect shells (small plastic bags come in handy) and pebbles. Once we reach Seymour or Icho Tower, children (and adults) love to drink and munch something while having a little break, so ensure you bring some refreshments.

As young people get cold quickly, protective clothing (including hats) for the weather conditions is important to keep them walking happily. Hats are especially important in sunny weather, as are light T-shirts covering shoulders and arms. We walk across pools and channels and get wet up to the knees. Please consider that wet jeans can be uncomfortable and may rub on children’s legs.

We often arrange Family Walks to Seymour Tower for families with young children.