10 unforgettable wild swimming spots to sail to
The widely reported benefits of cold water therapy and Wim Hof breathing has led to an increase in wild swimming. On a ferry holiday, you are never far from the water so, whether you’re a seasoned wild swimmer or just dipping your toe in the water, we’ve picked our favourite places to take the plunge.
Even better, all these exceptional spots are close to ferry ports!
The British Isles
- The Isles of Scilly
The jewel-toned waters around the Isles of Scilly are irresistible to swimmers. Experienced water babies should head to Penninis Head on St Mary’s, which features dramatic granite tors and Atlantic waves. For calmer seas, head to Porthcressa Bay, which is sheltered on both sides by rocky outcrops. If you’re new to the sport or enjoy the camaraderie of group sports, join Wild and Scilly Mermaids who run guided swim experiences. Choose to swim in sheltered bays or inter-island route, it also runs Swim Hike adventures, which combines a 2.5km sea swim with a hike along a coastal path. Wetsuits are available for hire.
Sail from Penzance to St Mary’s with Isles of Scilly Travel.
- The Isle of Vatersay
The most southerly inhabited island of the Outer Hebrides, Vatersay has been eroded by the sea to create two large, breathtakingly beautiful bays either side of the main road south. Traigh a Bhaigh on the eastern side is much calmer and best suited for swimming as the bay is protected from the Atlantic waves. The western side is more rugged but better for surfers and windsurfers who seek the swells.
Sail to Castlebay from Oban with Caledonian MacBrayne and cross the causeway into Vatersay.
- Sandown, Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight is not short of beaches but there’s a reason that Sandown is popular. It has soft sands, has plenty of cafes and chip shops for post-dip refreshments and is easily accessible with all-terrain wheelchairs available so everyone can enjoy the sand. Experienced swimmers seeking to head away from the crowds and enjoy a greater challenge should head to Compton Bay. The sand is still soft under foot, but the waves are choppier. For a real ice and fire experience, book a session in the woodfired Slow Motion Sauna before plunging into the cool water.
Get to the Isle of Wight with Hovertravel, Red Funnel or Wightlink. Sandown is on the Island Line train from Ryde Pier Head.
- The Channel Islands
La Vallette in Guernsey is a cluster of tidal pools, built in 1865 that have recently been refurbished and are free to access. They give the feel of swimming in the sea with the shelter of a pool, helping swimmers of all abilities to build confidence. For a more remote swim spot, head to the Venus Pools on Lihou and Sark – Channel Islands easily reached from Guernsey. These natural, secluded pools form at low tide providing protection from the current. Clambering over the rocks of this untamed landscape to reach the water just adds to the wild fun.
Sail to Guernsey with Brittany Ferries.
- Canary Wharf Sea Lanes
Swimming against a backdrop of skyscrapers in the heart of the city is an unforgettable experience. Sea Lanes is London’s newest outdoor swimming oasis This 50m, 6-lane natural floating pool right in the dock offers a unique experience which can be followed by a post-exercise relax in one of the eco-friendly saunas.
Travel with Uber Boat by Thames Clippers and disembark at Canary Wharf to reach the Sea Lanes.
- Isle of Man
The island is home to multiple glens providing lots of opportunities to enjoy glen dipping. The cool waters are very grounding and a great exercise in mindfulness as the water will take your breath away and sharpen your senses. Spoot Vayne in Glen Mooar is one of the highest waterfalls on the island. Positioned in a secret, tranquil hollow visitors can enjoy privacy and tranquillity while they paddle beneath the falls.
Travel with the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company and follow Visit Isle of Man’s Mindful Map to find the best spots for glen dipping.
Ireland
- Carlingford Lough
This glacial fjord is on the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic at the foot of the Cooley Mountains. Even when swimming, you can’t fail to see the impressive remains of Carlingford Castle, which was built in the 12th Century. The water is chilly, so a wetsuit is recommended for most of the year, but you’ll be surprised at the endorphin rush you’ll get.
Sail to Belfast with Stena Line, to Larne with P&O Ferries or to Dublin with Irish Ferries or Stena Line before heading to Carlingford. Or if you’re coming from the Isle of Man, sail direct to Larne with Isle of Man Steam Packet Company.
Continental Europe
- River Orne, Normandy
It’s easy to see why this area is referred to as Swiss Normandy as the spectacular hills and rocky valleys south of Caen are truly wild making this a paradise for outdoor activities. At some points along the river swimmers may share the waters with kayaks, canoes and paddleboards and the village of Clécy provides a great entry point. Wear water shoes as the river bed is rocky.
Sail to Caen with Brittany Ferries or sail to Dieppe with DFDS. From Ireland sail with Brittany Ferries or Irish Ferries to Cherbourg.
- Grand Fort Philippe, France
The Plage de Grand-Fort-Philippe is just one of the many beaches that decorate the coastline between Calais and Dunkirk. This 2km stretch of golden sand is near the entrance of the English Channel, making it a popular spot for water sports as well as swimming, sunbathing and beach volleyball. The free parking nearby also makes it convenient! The area is steeped in history with a 17th century fort – which gives the beach its name – and a lighthouse that offers panoramas of the coastline.
Cross the Channel from Dover to Calais with DFDS, Irish Ferries or P&O Ferries or sail to Dunkirk with DFDS from Dover or Rosslare
- Het Twiske, The Netherlands
This recreational area, nature reserve and lake north of Amsterdam, is known for its beaches and water sports. An extensive network of cycle paths make it easily reachable on two wheels from the city. The area offers a day out for the whole family with a pirate-themed adventure playground for little ones as well as dog-friendly beaches.. Twiske Haven offers canoe, rowing boat and water bicycle hire in case you fancied trying more than just swimming.
Sail from the UK to the Netherlands with DFDS, P&O Ferries or Stena Line.