When people hear about swimming in the harbour they have a lot of questions and concerns.  Here are the answers to the common ones, with sources for further reading.

Isn't the water unfit for swimming?

Back in the 1970s, the harbour was disgusting, with chemical run-off, boats emptying “heads” (boat word for toilets) directly into the harbour, and a thriving rat population. For some time, Bristol City Council have been doing regular water quality testing, the results of which can be found here. These results show that on some occasions the water quality is “excellent” by bathing water standards, which can be found here. The harbour is much cleaner than it was and often much cleaner than rivers. That said, wild swimmers need to understand the risks and decide for themselves if these risks are acceptable to them.

Is there Weil’s disease in the harbour?

We are not aware of any water quality tests that have confirmed the existence of Weil’s in the harbour. However, it is always a risk when in or using water that is not treated. So anyone using the harbour or any river needs to decide if they feel this risk is worth it. This is a personal decision for each swimmer to make.

What about E.Coli?

E.Coli is a strain of bacteria that can infect the intestines. It occurs through infected water, but most infections occur through contact with infected food. E.Coli is measured during water quality checks, and if levels are deemed high, Bristol City Council warns all harbour users to be more careful — they do not ban the currently allowable use, such as SUP. The same would apply to swimming — if levels are higher than you feel you are comfortable, do not swim until levels are reduced. 

Are there currents in the harbour that could suck a swimmer underwater or out to sea?

Broadly speaking, the harbour is stagnant except when the lock gates are in operation or sluice gates are operational. People must never swim anywhere near this machinery while it is operational. Much the same as how high-flow weirs in rivers should be avoided and crashing waves in the sea can be lethal.

Could a boat hit a swimmer?

If not done properly this is a very real hazard. But like a lot of hazards it can be entirely eliminated. Swimming will only take place in areas without vessel movements. There are many ways in which this can be done- by cordoning off designated areas, having spotters for boats, using visible “floats” (much like a buoy), as well as not swimming in periods of high vessel movements. It’s like crossing the road - it is a lethal hazard but simple things make it safe - such as crossing when there are no cars, avoiding busy roads, and ensuring you are visible.

Is swimming in cold water dangerous?

It absolutely can be and people have died from it. This is a risk in rivers, lakes, seas, and harbours. It is vital that people learn the risks of cold water shock, how to reduce the risk, and learn their limits.

Content like this is useful to educate people. We will continue to make a range of content from a diverse set of voices to educate the community on this. Swimmers would also be welcome to wear a wetsuit or other cold water accessories, such as neoprene boots, gloves, and hats. 

People drown in the harbour - how is it a good idea to allow or encourage swimming?

There have been many tragic (and near-tragic) incidents in the harbour over the years.  Almost none of these would have happened if the unfortunate victims were swimming in the manner that the wild swimming community endorses. Indeed, by having a culture of swimming we will increase water-awareness and swimming skills. If people have a time, place, and community to swim with they are less likely to suffer from incidents that cause harm.  At present there is a prohibition on swimming in the harbour - history teaches us what happens when a prohibition is imposed versus when a balanced, inclusive and pragmatic approach is taken to potentially dangerous activities.

Why “Wild” Swimming?   Surely it is just “swimming”?

We feel it is important to create a distinction between different types of swimming locations, environments, and styles. A public swimming pool with excellent visibility, consistent warm temperatures, and lifeguards is entirely different from swimming in a harbour, river, lake or sea.  The skills required to reduce the hazards are also different. Because of this we want to use language that alerts people to the need to understand differences. Someone who has only ever swum in a swimming pool should never assume that they are adequately equipped for a “wild” swim.

Why don't you just use a swimming pool?

Swimming pools are fantastic amenities and have a vital role in the physical and mental health of our community, as well as recreation, sport, and education. But by their nature they have admission fees (thereby reducing access), they are short (thereby not ideal for long-distance training), and are generally indoors (meaning there is less outside time). We want to make as many places available for water recreation as possible - this increases inclusion and gives water users a wider range of adventures to have. We also believe that a new, enhanced culture can emerge within Bristol with city-centre swimming - look at Copenhagen! Indoor pools are also generally further out of the city centre, so most accessible to locals or those with their own transport. Bristol is already trying to foster a nature of public transport and bicycle use, so another amenity that is easily accessible in the city centre would be hugely beneficial.

Where would people swim?

This is up for debate and we invite you to input ideas!  Ideas include a section of Cumberland Basin, areas around Underfall Yard, further upstream and areas on the River Avon above Netham Lock. Where do YOU think it should be? Join the conversation #SwimBristolHarbour