Introduction to Sea Swimming Camp

Have you imagined swimming out of the bounds of pool lane ropes and pool walls, and being amidst the natural waters of the sea? The experience of swimming in open water is unique and mesmerizing. The beautiful land of Goa has gifted us with pristine beaches and open waters much to the attraction of open water swimmers. This makes open water swimming in Goa a delightful and fulfilling experience. 

The Introduction to Sea Swimming Camp is conducted over the course of a weekend (Saturday and Sunday), and is custom made to different groups of people. Whether you just want to relax and discover the joys of sea swimming on a lazy weekend or your goal is to compete in an open water race or triathlon, the club has you covered. 

With a combined swimming experience of over 40 years, the club members leave no stone unturned to ensure you get the most out of your weekend camp, all our swims are conducted by well seasoned professionals, safety is taken very seriously and trained lifeguards are always available on every open water expedition. Essential open water skills like drown-proofing, understanding of waves and rip currents, using the tide to your advantage and sighting in open water are taught to all participants. An audio-visual based theory session on first aid is also conducted and team members will share tips which will enhance the participant's overall experience. 

Spend a weekend communing with the ocean. Our open water swim sessions introduce you to the magical feeling of being one with the sea, with safety and guidance. 

What does the two-day camp include?

• 3 open water sessions, one short pool session, one audio-visual based theory session.

• Each open water session lasts 90 mins with an instructor who knows the local waters, and accompanying lifeguards from Drishti, as well as kayaks for safety and hydration.

• Every session includes a safety briefing, information on tides and local beach knowledge. In addition, we teach the importance of proper breathing techniques and sighting while swimming, drown-proofing techniques, and the risks involved when swimming in open waters, such as marine life, boats, fishing nets, etc.

• Yoga and meditation sessions.

• The session ends with an endurance swim, depending on ability. The final distance is predetermined by GOWSC coaches.

• On completion of the session, participants receive an e-certificate noting the distance completed.

• Breakfast on both days.

Who is this recommended for?

• Casual swimmers. Anyone who wishes to join our camp must know how to swim. The GOWSC does not teach swimming.

• Athletes practicing for triathlons, long distance races or expeditions must experience this session.

• For swimmers travelling to Goa who want to swim up to 1.5 km with safety & guidance, and local knowledge of seas and tides.

• All swimmers must be 16 years and above to join the GOWSC Swim Camp.

When?

• The camp commences from 6:45 am, Saturday, and ends by 10:30 pm on Sunday. Please arrive at the location 15 min prior to your session.

Where?

• Bambolim Beach Resort is our partner hotel for the camp. https://www.bambolimbeachresort.com/

What should you bring along?

• Swimwear: All kinds of proper fitting swimwear is recommended. Being a warm tropical location, we do not allow wetsuits.

• A bottle of water + choice of electrolytes, fruits or snacks for post-swim recuperation.

• Swimming goggles (carry an extra pair just in-case) and bright coloured swimming caps are compulsory.

• For jellyfish protection, use coconut oil or petroleum jelly.

• Sunscreen is not recommended as it is harmful to marine life. If absolutely necessary, please try and use reef-safe sunscreen.

• Avoid eating anything at least 1 hour before the swim and avoid alcohol for at least 12 hours before the session. Consumption of alcohol or other intoxicating substances before the session must be responsibly avoided as they are serious health and safety hazards in open waters.

What are our Safety Precautions?

• Participants will be given a safety briefing about the location and sea condition.

• Fully equipped, government approved Drishti lifeguards will be on duty, on land and in the water, specifically for the safety of the participants.

• All our instructors are trained in basic life skills and resuscitation under the Special Rescue Training Academy.

• We have added additional instructors to our team, to ensure that the groups of swimmers are smaller, and to make it a more manageable, and safe experience.

• Safety of all swimmers is our main priority. Since sea conditions can be uncertain, the final decision whether or not a swimmer is allowed to swim, is at the discretion of GOWSC.

• Kindly note GOWSC does NOT teach how to swim at this program. To be part of this session, you must know basic swimming and should be able to swim at least 100m in a swimming pool.

• All swimmers must be 16 years and above to join the GOWSC Swim Camp.

How to book / cancel?

• All bookings are done online via the link shared.

• In the event of cancellation by the participant upto 1 week prior to the event, 80% of the ticket cost will be refunded excluding gateway fee, on informing us upto a week prior to the event. After that there will be no refund.

• In case of cancellation, due to unforeseen circumstances by the organisers, 80% will be refunded excluding gateway fee, the balance 20% will be deducted toward ticket gateway and pre-event expenses.

• For any questions please drop us a whatsapp message on +91 98340 09511 or email: goaowsclub@gmail.com

• The organisers reserve the right to change the time/location and date of the swim without prior intimation if situations are found to be unsafe.