Nearly 400 Swimmers Brave Strong Winds for “The Country’s Friendliest Swim” on Scilly

The Scilly Swim Challenge returned to the Isles of Scilly last week for its 12th year, bringing nearly 400 swimmers together for what is known as “the country’s friendliest swim.”

Participants took on the unique challenge of swimming and walking between the islands alongside a team of open water experts. Unlike traditional races, the emphasis is on completing the journey together, with organisers awarding the title of “friendliest swimmer” at the end of the day rather than celebrating the fastest time.

Battling the Elements

This year’s event was met with strong winds, leading to adapted routes. Despite the conditions, every swimmer completed the challenge with the support of over 60 helpers and kayakers.

Alice Todd, Co-Owner of SwimQuest, the company behind the challenge, said:

“This challenge is as good as it gets. It throws everything that’s wonderful about ocean swimming at you: the elements, stunning scenery, camaraderie, incredible support, a huge sense of achievement, connection with nature and endless smiles. Thank you to all of our amazing participants who took part this year and of course our friends on The Isles of Scilly. We’re already looking forward to being back next year. People just can’t get enough.”

A Boost for Scilly

Over the years, organisers estimate the swim has brought more than 11,000 visitors to the islands, generated over 36,000 overnight stays, seen more than £1.8m spent in local shops and restaurants, and left 90% of participants eager to return.

Looking Ahead to 2026

Last week’s events, held on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday (w/c 1st September), also marked the launch of tickets for the 2026 Scilly Swim Challenge. Charity partner Level Water, which funds adapted swimming lessons for children with disabilities across the UK, is already offering places.

For those wishing to enter without charity fundraising, tickets will go on sale at 10am on 30th October via the official website scillyswimchallenge.co.uk.

The 2026 dates are:

• Two Day Event: 17th and 18th September – £379 (or 50% off with a charity place through Level Water)

• One Day Event: 20th September – £299 (or 50% off with a charity place through Level Water)

About the Challenge

The Scilly Swim Challenge sees participants complete 15km of swimming between the islands, divided into six swims with island walks in between. The event is owned and operated by SwimQuest Holidays, established in 2012.

For more details visit scillyswimchallenge.co.uk