Swim Around St Michael’s Mount for the RNLI This July

Three hundred swimmers will take to the water in Mount’s Bay this month, circling one of Cornwall’s most photographed landmarks. Every one of them will have raised money to keep the lifeboats running.

What’s happening

The RNLI Around the Mount Open Water Swim returns on Saturday 11 July, running from 11am to 4pm. Swimmers follow a one and a half mile route around St Michael’s Mount in Mount’s Bay, with all money raised going to Penlee Lifeboat Station.

Places are strictly limited to 300 swimmers. The event is open to anyone aged 14 or over on the day, and organisers say it is a must for sea swimmers, with intermediate or experienced open water swimmers in mind.

What it costs, and what you raise

Registration is £40, and places are booked through the event’s Eventbrite page. On top of the entry fee, everyone taking part is asked to pledge to raise at least £100 in sponsorship. Every pound raised supports RNLI volunteers around the Cornish coast.

The swim itself is largely run by volunteers, and organisers describe a fantastic atmosphere on the day.

The rules to know before you sign up

A wetsuit is required. No swimmer will be allowed in the water without one, and a swim-specific wetsuit is recommended for the extra buoyancy and warmth. Swimmers need to be able to cover the distance in open water conditions and must attend the safety briefing before the start.

The event forms part of the South West Swims series, and full details are set out in the RNLI fundraising terms and conditions.

Make a weekend of it

Anyone wanting more can go back to back. The RNLI Mullion Island Swim takes place the following day, on Sunday 12 July.

Not a swimmer?

There are plenty of volunteering roles on the day for people who want to be part of it without getting in the water. Organisers are asking anyone interested to get in touch.