Iconic open water swim Threading the Needles, Isle of Wight, UK

Be part of a memorable and iconic open water swim on the Isle of Wight where you will “Thread the Needles”, which means swimming in open sea, with team support and fully around the famous majestic chalk stacks. 

We encourage swimming with both elegance and efficiency. It doesn’t matter whether you are a head-up breaststroke dipper or a competitive triathlon racer, we should all be seeking to maximise the efficiency – and the beauty – of our swimming. It all begins with breathing and whatever your swimming goal, we can assure you that breathing control is the first step towards achieving your personal swim nirvana. 

Harmony with nature is another objective. We started The Kelp Community because we believe that in order to fully appreciate the wonders of natural swimming, we must first be comfortable that we are part of nature ourselves. Iconic Swims encourage swimmers to re-wild, whether that means swimming over kelp forests, drifting through narrow rock fissures or cruising at high tide across the salt marshes. for all these reasons, we align with and support our friends at MarAlliance who seek to conserve marine wildlife and repopulate the seas with iconic species.

What's included for 2 people: -Transport by private swim charter vessel -Swim coaching -Lifeguard and guide -Picnic lunch, drinks and cake -Digital photos Swimming distance: 3-5km (or more, depending on swimming abilities and conditions) Suitable for: - intermediate swimmers with some sea swimming experience - those confident swimming in deep water for between 15 mins & 1 hour - swimmers who are confident they will be able to climb the swim ladder back on board the pilot vessel (we can help you if necessary!)

Dates for weekday departures will be released nearer to summer. Contact us at iconicswims@gmail.com to find out about group rates and midweek availability.

Iconic Swims was started by Angus and Annabel, a husband-and-wife team passionate about the connections between sea swimming, health and the ocean environment. 

Long-established South Coasters, both have a passion for the sea and swim daily throughout the year in one of the many spots from West Hampshire to East Dorset and the Isle of Wight coast. In their boat they have explored every corner of of this beautiful coastline and are now excited to be sharing their experiences with other swimmers. 

​​Together Angus and Annabel are dedicated to extending their love, and appreciation, of the beauty of the sea to as many people as possible. 

Not included:

Travel to the Isla of Wight and accommodation.