Exploring under the sea at Selsey
Anya Frampton, Mulberry Marine Experiences.
I've been exploring the seas off Selsey for over 13 years as part of Mulberry Marine Experiences. I love being around the water and as a snorkeling, freediving and Scuba Instructor there is only one thing better than spending time with our marine residents and that is introducing them to other people. I often hear the words “what can you see?” or “is there anything there?” and my answer is “Yes! There is plenty to see and lots of ways you can get closer to experience it for yourself”.
The biodiversity of our marine residents and the ecosystem they live in has been recognised with the granting of Selsey Bill and Hounds Marine Conservation Zone, but perhaps you have wondered how you might see this amazing life!
Active ecosystems where battles rage for the best spots are easily visible just by walking along the shoreline. If you know where to look, you can meet the regular residents including anemones, mussels, whelks and crabs: Selsey’s answer to rock pooling. A guided Marine Walk can help show you where to look and tell you about the daily life of these seaside residents, including how they see off unwanted competition and favourite foods. Our walks are even more fun if you come prepared to wade a little but there's still plenty to see if you choose to stay dry.
If you venture into the water then snorkelling opens a door into another world. I have been lucky enough to see wrasse, juvenile eels, four species of crab, fan worms, mackerel, bass, blennies, gobies, prawns and even a sunbathing greater pipefish. Pipefish belong to the same family as sea horses and share the facial characteristics or snout. On a sunny evening with falling tide you can see them snuggling on the bottom catching the last of the sun’s rays. You do need to be aware of tides but our guided tours throughout the summer will help get you started. If a confident snorkeler you can always call and check details with us.
Qualified divers have an opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the shyer residents or to see those who prefer a little deeper water. My diving experiences have let me watch the wrasse build nests, spot numerous species of nudibranch, observe resting catsharks, drift over rays, see a lobster catch his tea and eat it, pass mating sea hares and interact with curious blennies. Selsey is seasonal and you're never sure what you will find on any given day. It is always a privilege, never boring and I might get to see a Selsey Seahorse one day!
Whether you want to walk, snorkel or dive at Mulberry Marine Experiences we would be delighted to introduce you to Selsey’s Marine Inhabitants contact us on 01243 601000 or email