About

Swimming in Bristol Harbour

All Aboard Watersports runs supervised open water swimming sessions in Bristol's Floating Harbour at Baltic Wharf. Sessions cost £8. The swim will also feature sauna provided by Sivo Wellness and free coffee supplied by TrueStart Coffee.

Book your swim

Quick facts

• Price: £8 per session
• Location: Baltic Wharf, Floating Harbour, Bristol
• Check-in window: 8.50am–9.45am (no entry after 9.45am)
• Minimum age: 18
• Swim ability: Must swim 50m continuously in deep water
• Booking: Required in advance, non-refundable, non-transferable

Water quality

Water quality at Baltic Wharf is tested weekly against bathing water standards. A reading under 500 counts per 100ml is classed as 'excellent'. Check the latest Baltic Wharf water quality results.

Before you book

• You must be able to swim 50m continuously in deep water.
• Sessions must be booked in advance.
• You must be 18 or over.
• A waiver will be emailed to you after booking, which you'll need to sign.
• Bookings are non-refundable and non-transferable. If a session is cancelled due to bad weather or poor water quality, you'll receive a credit valid for future bookings until the end of the season.
• If you have any specific health concerns, please check with a health professional before your session.

We intend to offer free or affordable swims in future for those where cost is a barrier.

On the day

Reception is by the steps to the left of The Cottage pub. Arrive any time between 8.50am and 9.45am, depending on how long you'd like to swim, there's no entry into the water after 9.45am.

Check in at the desk by the swimming area, where you'll be given a wristband to hand back after your swim. Toilets and changing are available opposite the Harbour Master's office, we recommend arriving 'swim ready', as facilities are not close by.

What to bring

• Tow float (required)
• Brightly coloured swim cap (required)
• Earplugs (recommended, not compulsory) - help prevent cold water entering the ear canal, which can cause dizziness and nausea
• Wetsuit (optional, advised if you're not used to cold water)
• Warm clothes for after your swim

A supervised, enclosed area is available for storing your belongings.