It is unlikely that the British physician encountered wild gray seals while diving off the coast of the British Farne Isles in Northumberland, an experience he would remember for the rest of his life.

Ben Purville takes care of patients at work. But on vacation he likes to dive. He is an experienced diver with over 32 years of experience. But even all this time underwater, receiving a warm embrace from seals was new and exciting for him.

In the video of the meeting, the seal strangely approaches the underwater bin and apparently slaps the diver to get his attention. Then the seal wraps its fins around porphyllin, as if embracing it.

The seal remained on the doctor’s hand, and he seemed to be enjoying his eye mask and breathing apparatus.

In addition to his full-time general practitioner, Ben is a researcher in the Department of Marine Biology at Newcastle University, where he studies seals and beluga dolphins. He says that seals often play games with him in which you try to take off your mask or headgear. You will do it carefully and never harm. However, this may not be very safe for the diver!

But obviously, this sweet moment came after years of fellowship.

Ben told Caters about his meeting with the photographer via Rumble: “I know I’m incredibly happy that I have the opportunity and opportunity to look into their world, which makes it easy. After diving and observing gray seals for over 18 years, they showed me how to dive with them in a way that makes them feel comfortable. ”

He notes that interactions are entirely dependent on seals and that the population is temporary and new members come and go on a regular basis. “Seals are not pets and are not tamed in any way. These are wild seals, which fluctuate in numbers as new seals arrive and turn away from others. ”

In the course of communication, he learned that “seals are interested in some noise.” The video shows that the curious seals are having a great time “playing” with Purville, checking his gear, scratching him and, like one of them, hugging him.

Purville described: “When you are hugged or held by the hand, it is difficult to describe the feeling – time stops.” “You know 100 percent that you are peaceful and calm now, and I suppose the term is awake.”

It is a truly unique experience and I am confident and glad that Purville and his fellow divers watched the movie!

Watch the awesome meeting in the video below.

.