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Zeehondenopvangcentrum: A Sanctuary for Seals

Visit Belgium's only seal rehabilitation center at SEA LIFE Blankenberge and witness marine conservation in action.

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The Zeehondenopvangcentrum (Seal Rehabilitation Center) at SEA LIFE Blankenberge is the only seal rehabilitation center in Belgium, rescuing and caring for orphaned, sick, or injured seal pups found along the Belgian coast. After months of dedicated care, the seals are released back into the wild.

A brief summary to Zeehondenopvangcentrum SEA LIFE Blankenberge

Local tips

  • Check the SEA LIFE Blankenberge website for the seal feeding and presentation times to learn more about the rehabilitation process.
  • Consider adopting a seal to support the center's conservation efforts.
  • Combine your visit with other Blankenberge attractions, such as the beach or Belgium Pier.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    SEA LIFE Blankenberge is easily accessible by public transport. From Blankenberge train station, it's approximately a 2-kilometer walk or a short ride on the Kusttram (coastal tram). Take the Kusttram to the 'SEA LIFE - Floréal' stop, which is located at the park's parking area. A single fare on the Kusttram is around €2.50.

  • Walking

    From the Blankenberge city center or the beach, SEA LIFE Blankenberge is within walking distance. Follow the Koning Albert-I-laan eastward. The walk is approximately 20-30 minutes from the city center.

  • Parking

    If arriving by car, SEA LIFE Blankenberge has a parking area. Parking fees vary, with street parking in the red zone costing €2.50 per hour between 9 AM and 7 PM. Alternatively, the orange zone offers a full-day parking option for €7.50. Free parking is available on Blankenbergse-Steenweg (N34), a 15-minute walk away, and you can take the Kusttram from 'Wenduine Harendijke' or 'Blankenberge Markt'.

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Discover more about Zeehondenopvangcentrum SEA LIFE Blankenberge

The Zeehondenopvangcentrum, located within SEA LIFE Blankenberge, is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of seals found along the Belgian coast. Established in 1998, the center plays a crucial role in marine wildlife conservation. Each year, dozens of seal pups are found sick, injured, or separated from their mothers, significantly reducing their chances of survival. The center's SOS Rescue Team provides these vulnerable animals with intensive care for three to four months, nursing them back to health before releasing them back into their natural habitat. Visitors can witness the center's conservation efforts and learn about the seals' journey to recovery. The center also rescues, rehabilitates, and releases porpoises. SEA LIFE Blankenberge uses water directly from the North Sea to recreate the natural habitat for the animals. The center also participates in data collection efforts with neighboring countries to monitor seal populations. The cost to care for a seal pup averages around 2,500 euros, with the center relying on visitor support and adoptions to fund its operations.

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