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Southampton International Boat Show Swim

The unique, fun, bucket list sea swim!

Register here
Open water swimming

Event details

Access the water from the Southampton International Boat Show pontoons and swim 1km in the iconic Southampton docks, past tall ships and super yachts.

Location: Harbour Parade, Southampton, SO15 1ST

Date: Saturday 21st September 2024
Time: 8am arrival, first swim wave 9am
Registration: Book before 31st May to get our £35 Early Bird rate (£40 thereafter)
Fundraise: You can add an optional donation when you register and fundraise too!

Register here

Open water swimming

A unique swim for your bucket list

This is a rare opportunity to swim past tall ships and super yachts at Britain's biggest and best festival of boating, where there's normally no access for swimming.

Free early entry to the Boat Show

All swimmers get FREE entry to the Boat Show Festival and spectators get discounted entry at £19.99.

Southampton dock

Beginners and experienced swimmers both welcome!

This is a fun and non-competitive event suitable for everyone, whether you want to take on your first open water swim, or challenge your personal best! There will be a clock to time your swim if you wish.

group of swimmers

Free expert advice fom an open water swimming coach

Scott Dawson, famous for swimming around the Isle of Wight, will be on hand on the day and in the lead up to the event, alongside other experienced sea swimmers, to provide top tips on swimming in open water.

Register here
Two swimmers holding medals
Hydrotherapy pool

Share your love of the water

A sponsorship of just 10 pence for every metre you swim (£125) could help fund a hydrotherapy pool session, giving young disabled people the opportunity to share your love of the water.

Adding a donation on to your swim registration makes a big splash here at Rose Road!

£5 could buy food ingredients and help a young person learn to cook their favourite meal.
£15 could take a young person to the zoo for a day.
£25 could provide an hour's emergency outreach support.
£75 could provide almost 4 hours of extended respite for a family in need of additional help.

However much you choose to donate, you will help a disabled young person to be part of a community where they thrive, feel a sense of belonging and achieve their aspirations! Thank you for your support.

Register here

Event Information and FAQs

Participant Information Pack

Find out more information about the event, open water swimming tips and more here. Or for any other questions, please email fundraising@roseroad.org.uk or call us on 023 8072 1203

Cost to participate

Registration at the Early Bird rate (valid until 31st May) is £30, £40 thereafter. A medal is an additional £5 and every swimmer receives a commemorative pink swimming hat and event sew-on swimming badge. Your registration fee also includes FREE entry to the boat show. There is the option to add on an additional donation when you register, and to fundraise in support of your swim, to help us raise £5,000 for disabled children and young people through this unique event.

Distances and estimated times

Event distance
1km

Swimming time
People usually take around 30 to 90 minutes to swim a distance of 1km.

Is the swim timed?

No, the swim is not competitive. However, there will be a clock available to those wanting to record their own time.

Will I get a medal for completing the event?

A medal will be available for a small additional fee. Every swimmer also receives a sew-on swimming badge and a goody bag with commemorative swimming cap.

How do I get there?

There are several ways to get to Southampton, see the Southampton International Boat Show Travel Information page to find the best method for you.

Can I bring anyone with me?

Yes, a spectator ticket is available which gives access to the Southampton International Boat Show at a discounted rate of £19.99. Swimmers can enter the Boat Show for free.

How old do I have to be to swim?

The minimum age is 18.

What photo ID must I bring with me?

We require a photo ID for swimmers to collect their registration packs. Please bring a passport, driving license or other photo ID card. We will accept a photocopy or an image on your phone. We must be able to clearly see the photograph, name and date of birth.

Are there toilets and changing facilities?

Yes – changing facilities are limited, please come swim ready if possible.

Is there food and drink available to purchase?

There are options to purchase food and drink, after your swim at the Boat Show. Spectators can also use these facilities.

Do I have to wear a wetsuit?

We recommend you wear a wetsuit. However, if you are an experienced outdoor swimmer you can choose to swim without one.

Do I have to wear a tow float?

This year, all participants must wear a ttow float during the swim.

Is there a safety boat?

A safety boat and kayaks will be on hand and accompanying all participants for the duration of the event.

Can I access the Boat Show after my swim?

Yes, your swim entrance fee includes entrance to the boat show. Spectators also get specially discounted entry to the festival.

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