Frequently asked questions
There’s nothing we won’t do to get you into the water
We’ve answered the questions we hear most, so you can book with confidence.
What level of swimmer do I need to be?
At SwimQuest we have a holiday for all swim levels. The number of daily kilometres is stated on each trip page for ease.
Can I swim any stroke I want?
Of course! Whatever makes you most comfortable is absolutely fine. It’s your holiday and we want you to enjoy it.
How far do we swim each day?
This varies according to trip. There will usually be two swims a day and these can be longer (5km+) or shorter (up to 1km). If you ever feel unable to complete a swim you can stop and return to the shore / guide boat.
Is there a support boat or kayak following the group?
Yes there are boats and/or kayaks accompanying swimmers at all times.
If I get tired mid-swim can I stop and get picked up?
Yes, you can be picked up by the guide boat if needed.
Do I need open-water experience, or is pool swimming enough preparation?
Pool swimming is absolutely enough.
Do I need a wetsuit?
This depends on you and also the trip itself. We have some trips in cooler waters where you may feel more comfortable in a wetsuit. However in hotter climates with warmer seas it would not be required.
What’s the group size, and what’s the guide-to-swimmer ratio?
At SwimQuest we believe a smaller group size makes for a safer and more memorable trip. We cap most trips at 12 people with 2 guides for this reason.
Are groups split by ability (fast/slow swimmers)?
Not generally however this can happen naturally on our trips. Guide boats are always watching safely from the front and the back of the group.
Are the trips suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the trips are great for solo travellers as they are friendly and communal, fostering friendship and camaraderie throughout.
What’s included in the price (accommodation, meals, transfers)?
Accommodation is always included. Meals depend on the trip itself – please check “What’s included” on the trip page of your choice. Transfers are generally not included in the price however you will be advised of this cost before travelling.
Do I need my own wetsuit, goggles, tow float, etc., or is equipment provided?
You will receive a swim cap and poncho upon arrival but any other gear you will need to bring along. Tow floats are always required to be brought by swimmers. We will send a travel essentials list prior to your trip to ensure you have everything you need.
How do I get to the start point, and are airport transfers included?
You will need to arrange your flights to the destination of your trip and we will advise on airports, transfers and any other travel prior to your journey.
What’s the cancellation and refund policy?
Please read this is our terms and conditions.
What deposit do I need to pay? And when is the final balance due?
A 30% deposit is required when booking and the final balance is due 10 weeks before you depart.
Is my money protected?
Yes. SwimQuest are ABTOT members. The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT) provides financial protection under The Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 for SwimQuest Ltd No 5408.
Is travel insurance required?
Yes – all guests are required to have travel insurance that covers open water swimming. You must bring your Certificate of Insurance to the safety briefing at the start of the trip. SwimQuest has a partnership with Columbus Direct, which covers open water swimming within 12 miles of shore as standard (all SwimQuest swims fall within this). View details via our Insurance page.
What safety cover is in place (rescue boat, first aid)?
There will always be first-aid trained guides with you on your swims as well as guide boats. If needed you will be brought aboard the boat where first-aid will be administered or further action taken if required.
What happens in bad weather or rough seas?
If the sea is too rough / winds too high we will not take swimmers out into open water. We may permit a bay swim off the beach if accessible and safe. Otherwise we can help facilitate other local activities such as a walk or hike if weather allows.
Is there a minimum age?
There is a minimum age of 18 for trips.
Is it swimming-focused only, or are there rest days/other activities?
Generally the trips are swimming focused. We do have days which include trips to local tourist areas, markets etc alongside swimming. There are rest times during the day where you can explore the area, read, relax, do some yoga etc.
What’s a typical daily itinerary?
Typically a day consists of two swims with meals and rest built around this. You will have breakfast at 8am followed by time to get ready for your swim which begins at approx. 10.30am. You will arrive back with time to shower and change for lunch at 1pm. Following lunch you will prepare for next swim at 3:30pm. Once back you can rest and get ready for dinner at 7:30pm.
Do you offer sole-occupancy rooms / is there a single supplement?
Yes. Most of our trips include the option to upgrade to a sole occupancy room for a single supplement. Please see individual trips for prices and options.
Can I bring my non-swimming partner
Yes! Non swimmers are very welcome on our trips. We offer non swimmers a 10% discount on the trip price, and they can join us on boats and swim / dip as much or as little as they wish.
Can I speak to fellow swimmers before departure?
Absolutely, we will put you in touch with other swimmers via whatsapp a few weeks before the trip starts so you can share travel plans and excitement levels.
Can you help me with my swim technique?
Yes. Technique coaching is included (and optional!) on most trips. Guides can film you above and below the water at the start of the week and work with you throughout to help improve your stroke.
Please contact us below if you have any other questions. We would be delighted to help.
Get in touch
- info@swimquest.uk.com
- Message via Whatsapp
- Office: +44(0)20 8675 6608
- Amberlie: +44(0)7860 648845
- Alice: +44 (0)7825 301443
- John: +44(0)7951 727453
What is a Swimming holiday?
A swimming holiday lets you explore parts of the world from a unique, aquatic perspective. Read on to find out more.
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