Hel Seal Sanctuary

The Seal Center of the Marine Station at the Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdańsk in Hel is a scientific and research facility focused on the protection of the grey seal in the southern Baltic Sea. Located by the Seaside Boulevard, the seal center consists of three breeding pools, small rehabilitation pools, and an educational-laboratory building. It plays a key role in species conservation and conducts extensive educational activities, organizing courses for various groups. The facility attracts tourists, with an annual visitation of around 300,000 people over the years. It is sustained by voluntary donations, grants, and the sale of tickets and souvenirs. The Seal Center aims to ensure the long-term protection of the grey seal from extinction, reintroduce it into the local ecosystem, and conduct research on marine mammals. The history of the center is marked by an incident involving a seal named Krystyna, which died due to ingesting coins thrown by tourists. This led to stricter rules for entering the pools and the installation of a donation box for contributors. Additionally, as part of the "Blue Village" project carried out by the University of Gdańsk, actions are planned for the protection of local wildlife and the sustainable development of the city of Hel. The project includes the reconstruction of a fishing settlement, a dune park, a porpoisearium, and an educational "Blue School." The expansion of the Marine Station's infrastructure aims to increase tourist traffic while respecting dune protection. The Seal Center not only fulfills an important scientific role but also becomes a significant cultural and tourist element of the region, combining scientific research with education and environmental protection.