In the ever-evolving landscape of travel trends, swimming holidays have emerged as a unique and immersive way to explore new destinations. No longer confined to the occasional dip in the ocean, this trend involves long-distance swims through scenic waterways, guided by support boats, and often combined with cultural experiences. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the popularity of swimming holidays has surged as travelers seek active, nature-based experiences that foster a deeper connection with their surroundings.
Swimming holidays are often described as the ultimate in slow travel, allowing participants to experience places from an entirely different vantage point—at water level. Instead of speeding through destinations by car, train, or plane, travelers glide through crystal-clear seas, winding rivers, or tranquil lakes, stopping in picturesque villages and historic landmarks along the way.
This mode of travel offers a blend of physical endurance, adventure, and appreciation of nature. As Ella Foote, editor of Outdoor Swimmer Magazine, puts it, “Swimming gives you a unique eye-view on the world because you are seeing it from ground or sea level. So many places were historically built near water, and experiencing them from the water itself offers a rediscovery of that lost connection.”
Unlike traditional beach vacations, where swimming is often a leisurely activity, swimming holidays require stamina and strength. Participants typically swim several kilometers a day, guided by experts who ensure safety and provide navigation. These guided swims often follow coastal routes, crossing from island to island, exploring fjords, or swimming through historical waterways.
Take, for example, a swimming expedition in Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor. Swimmers set out from small coastal villages, making their way to historic sites like the church of Our Lady of the Rock. Along the way, they navigate through clear blue waters filled with marine life, passing jagged mountain landscapes. Arriving at their destination by swimming rather than by boat adds a unique sense of accomplishment and connection to the journey.
Safety is a key consideration in swimming holidays. Groups are often divided based on ability, with each group accompanied by a support boat. Swimmers can take breaks whenever needed, ensuring that even those who are not elite athletes can participate.
The concept of long-distance swimming for leisure has a historical precedent. In the 19th century, poet Lord Byron famously swam across the Hellespont, a challenging four-mile strait in modern-day Turkey. Inspired by such feats, adventurers have long sought to test their endurance in open waters.
The modern swimming holiday industry took shape in the early 2000s when Simon Murie founded SwimTrek, the first company to offer organized swimming tours. Murie’s inspiration came from his own experience navigating complex swim routes that required logistical planning. Since then, the industry has expanded significantly, with operators offering trips across the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, and even the Arctic.
Companies like The Big Blue Swim specialize in Greek island-hopping adventures, while Strel Swimming, founded by record-breaking long-distance swimmer Martin Strel, focuses on Mediterranean and river-based experiences. These tours not only provide physical challenges but also contribute to local economies by partnering with small hotels, restaurants, and local guides.
Several factors have contributed to the rise of swimming holidays:
Post-Pandemic Shift Toward Outdoor Travel – With many travelers seeking open-air, wellness-focused experiences, swimming provides both adventure and a meditative escape from crowded tourist spots.
Sustainability – Swimming has minimal environmental impact compared to motorized tourism. These trips rely on human propulsion rather than fuel-powered transportation.
Physical and Mental Health Benefits – Open-water swimming is known for its therapeutic effects, from improving cardiovascular fitness to reducing stress.
Personal Challenge and Achievement – For many, completing a long-distance swim in an exotic location is a rewarding accomplishment.
For those looking for a travel experience that blends adventure, endurance, and cultural immersion, swimming holidays offer a refreshing alternative. Whether navigating the fjords of Norway, swimming from island to island in Greece, or tracing historical trade routes along the Adriatic coast, each journey is as much about personal growth as it is about exploration.
As the travel industry continues to evolve, swimming holidays stand out as a way to slow down, embrace nature, and see the world from an entirely new perspective—one stroke at a time.
