What swims do you offer? – We primarily focus on the longer Bristol Channel crossings, Porthcawl to Glenthorne and Swansea to Ilfracombe. For other swims, training days, relays, drop us a line!
Where do I meet the boat? – You will meet the boat at its berth in Porthcawl marina, there is more information and a map on the Sweet Child page here.
Does the weather affect my swim? – Yes, all swims are subject to date changes if the weather is not suitable. We will monitor the weather continuously in the lead up to your swim, and try to be as flexible as possible with alternative dates. All channel swims are given a window, and we will endeavor to go on the best day. If your swim is blown out of your window, we will work with you to find a suitable future date. We cannot be held liable for travel and other costs incurred if the weather is too rough to swim.
How do I book? – Drop us a message to discuss your swim, we will offer available dates and send you an invoice. The slot is secured with a non refundable deposit. The balance needs to be paid before the swim goes out.
Do I need a medical and qualifier? – Yes. Bristol Channel Association are recommending a 6 hour qualifier and medical in line with requirements for the English Channel. Further details can be found at the bottom of this page here.
What time will the swim leave the marina? – As you probably know, the Bristol Channel is INCREDIBLY tidal! The marina is only accessible 3 hours either side of high water. We will do our best to organise our lock out time, swim start time and lock back in time as sensibly as possible in your window but everything we do is governed by our massive tides!
Can I bring a friend? – If you are ratifying your swim as per the BSCA rules, you will need an official observer (we can help organise this). You will also need someone dedicated to looking after your feeds. There is a max of 6 persons allowed on board, including Skipper and crew. We can discuss this in more detail once a booking is made.
I want to ratify my swim, can you help? – Yes. We are founding members of the BCSA and can help you organise an observer for your swim. Just get in touch.
Is this company reputable? – Yes, our boats are fully coded with the MCA, our skippers are commercially endorsed skippers/pilots with many years experience as swimmers themselves.
Do I need insurance? – We are fully insured, and we hold a liability insurance; however, we still strongly advise you take out personal coverage for your swim. Companies like Sports Cover Direct and others offer day insurance for channel swimming.
Do you offer coaching? – Yes. We are qualified Open Water swim coaches, and can help you achieve your goals. Send us a message regarding coaching and we will discuss this with you.
Is there a Monster? Well yes….two!
Firstly we have an absolute beast of a tide! The shape of the channel naturally funnels the incoming tide and swells, creating some of the biggest tides in the worls. In places the channel can vary 15 metres and run at 10 knots.
Secondly, sticking out from the South Western Edge of Gower is the Worms head; an imposing lump of rock, jutting out into the channel, guarding its Western approach. .The name comes from the old Norse word Wurm, meaning Dragon and local legend says the beast terrified the Vikings enough to not pass the monster.
