Waves, times & how the start works

Starting a swim from a ferry is a little different. First, you will have to jump from a height of about 2.2m. We recommend you get some practice in beforehand - that will be fun.

Everyone will get timed, but think about whether you want to race and whether to wear a wetsuit . All swimmers will wear a transponder - a small timing device - so you can be accurately timed.

Racing in a wetsuit - mass start

If you love racing and are confident in a bigger group, this is your go to!

You will be in a bigger wave. You will hop into the water, form a group near the line and then the starting gun will go and trigger your race start as it does.

Racing without a wetsuit - mass start

Same as above. Remember you might be treading water for a little while as we gather for the start, so keep that in mind if you feel the cold.

SMALLER GROUPS - mixed wetsuits and no-wetsuits

If you prefer some space, or are not interested in racing, this is best for you. You will still get a time, but will not be eligible to win or place. You can simply line up and hop off, either with your friends or with new friends you make on the boat! You can still compare your time to other swimmers when you receive your results. (you may not know who did or did not wear a wetsuit though)

HOW THE TIMING WORKS

All swimmers will wear a small device so they can be timed accurately.

If you are in a mass-start wave, our system will trigger the beginning of your swim as we fire the starters gun.

If you are taking part in a smaller group, your transponder will activate as you walk over a mat, towards the edge of the ferry to hop in.