Mediterranean Monk Seals
Record births in the Sporades
Almost half of the world population of Mediterranean monk seals live in Greek waters. That’s why it’s heartening to see that a recent population count with photo-identification has shown a record number of 21 new pups born in the Northern Sporades Marine Park last year. Pups can be born all year round but the peak season is from September to November.
Populations
As of early 2026, the global population of Mediterranean monk seals was estimated to be between 815 and 997 individuals, with approximately 450 to 600 of those being mature, breeding adults. This marks a significant improvement from the 1990s, when numbers fell below 600 total. Researchers estimate that between 350 and 450 seals live in Greek waters, the majority of these in the Marine Park.
Northern Sporades Marine Park
The National Marine Park of Alonissos and Northern Sporades, to give it its full title, is the center of Greek conservation efforts. The recent count showing 21 new pups is the highest annual count in the almost 40 years of monitoring. While historically these seals hauled out on open sandy beaches, human disturbance has forced them to adapt; today, most Greek monk seals pup and rest in secluded sea caves with underwater entrances to avoid contact with people.
Most of the new pups were born on the island of Piperi — the core zone of the park — and in southeastern Skopelos.
The Marine Park, established in 1992, was among Greece’s first major marine conservation initiatives and is the largest marine protected area in Europe. The monk seal’s conservation status has improved in recent years, moving from “Critically Endangered” in 1996 to “Vulnerable” in 2022.
Visiting the Marine Park
The park is divided into two main areas: Zone A (Strict Protection) and Zone B (Lower Protection). Most visitors access the park by boat from Alonissos or from the neighboring islands of Skopelos and Skiathos.
Tickets and Fees: Since 2022, an entry ticket is mandatory to enter Zone A. The fee is approximately €5.50 for adults, with discounts for children and seniors. You can purchase these through the Alonnisos Marine Park Office.
Permitted Activities: In designated areas, you are welcome to swim, snorkel, take photos, and visit cultural monuments like the Monastery of Kyra Panagia.
Restricted Zones: The island of Piperi is the core of the park and is strictly off-limits to all visitors to protect seal breeding caves. Boats must maintain a 3-mile (4.8 kms) distance from its shores.
Boat Tours and Excursions
Most tourists explore the park via organized day trips, as many of the best swimming spots and islets are only reachable by sea.
Departure Points: Tours typically depart from the port of Patitiri in Alonissos (which is also where the Alonissos Marine Park offices are). Many also leave from Skopelos Town and Skiathos.
Wildlife Encounters: While seeing a monk seal is rare due to their shy nature, these tours often encounter pods of dolphins and various rare birds like Eleonora’s falcons.
Historical Sites: Some tours include stops at underwater archaeological sites or shipwrecks, such as the famous Peristera shipwreck (often referred to as the Parthenon of Shipwrecks).
Till next time
Mike and Donna
Good news!