Top 5 Challenging Open Water Swims Around the World
Introduction
Open water swimming takes place in natural bodies of water such as sea, lakes, and rivers. These races are not only physically demanding but also require great mental fortitude and skill. The conditions can be unpredictable and dangerous, as seen in the following top 5 challenging open water swims. Whether you are an experienced swimmer or just curious about the extremes of open water swimming, these routes will give you an idea of what lies in the vast and testing waters of the world.
Strait of Dover
Located between England and France, the Strait of Dover is a 21-mile stretch that has been crossed over 1000 times since 1875. This swim is famous for its long distance and impressive count of successful swimmers. However, the swift currents of the strait often force swimmers to add extra miles to the initial distance. These currents, combined with the close distance to the English coastline, make the Strait of Dover a challenging route for open water swimmers. The crossing is not without its risks, with strong tides and unpredictable weather conditions making it a dangerous yet thrilling challenge.
Strait of Gibraltar
One of the shorter swims on this list, the Strait of Gibraltar is only about 9 miles wide and separates Europe and Africa. This strait is the meeting point of the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, creating some of the most complex and unpredictable currents. Despite its relatively short distance, the strong currents and maritime traffic make it a difficult route. According to records, only 500 people have managed to successfully swim this strait, highlighting its sheer difficulty. The combination of strong currents and maritime traffic makes the Strait of Gibraltar a formidable challenge for any open water swimmer.
Cook Strait
Located between the North and South Islands of New Zealand, the Cook Strait is a 14-mile stretch known for its harsh weather conditions. Being in the southern hemisphere, the water is often extremely cold, reaching temperatures that are notoriously low. Marine life is also very active, with jellyfish stings and shark sightings being more common than rare. Swimmers need to take extra precautions when navigating through these waters, as the sea life can pose significant risks. The unpredictable weather conditions and strong currents make the Cook Strait one of the most challenging open water swims in the world.
Strait of Magellan
The Strait of Magellan in Chile is not only geographically narrow but also one of the most perilous waterways for swimmers. While only 2.5 miles wide, the inhospitable climate creates some of the most turbulent waters on the planet. Depending on the season, water temperatures can drop to 40 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, and winds can reach up to 180 knots. Waves can reach heights of up to 20 feet, and whirlpools are also a common occurrence. Since January 2015, only 22 individuals have successfully crossed this perilous strait, and the conditions make it a particularly daunting challenge.
Tsugaru Channel
Separated by the main island of Honshu and the northernmost island Hokkaido, the Tsugaru Channel is a 12-mile stretch known for the sheer volume of marine life. The presence of sharks, jellyfish, sea snakes, and squid presents a significant threat to swimmers. Strong currents add another layer of difficulty, allowing only 16 successful individuals to complete the journey across this dangerous channel. This makes it one of the most dangerous open water swims in the world, requiring exceptional skill and courage.
Conclusion
The aforementioned open water swims showcase the extreme challenges that come with this form of aquatic competition. Each of these routes demands exceptional physical and mental resilience, making them not only great tests of athleticism but also deeply inspiring feats. If you have the courage and determination, these waters offer a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you are inspired by the history and legacy of these swims or simply intrigued by the natural wonders of the world, these routes are sure to fire up your adventurous spirit.