Our Story
Beyond Blue Swims: A Story Born in Mauritius, Inspired by the OceanBeyond Blue Swims is more than a swim tour company — it’s the realisation of a lifelong passion for the open water, shaped by decades of experience, adventure, and a deep connection to the ocean.
Our story begins in the surf of Durban, South Africa, where founder Mark Elsbury first discovered his love for the ocean. At just 10 years old, he joined a surf lifesaving club — not just for fun, but as a rite of passage set by his mother, who insisted he could only surf once he had qualified as a nipper (junior surf life saver). It was here, Mark developed a lifelong respect for the ocean and the confidence to explore it.
Mark’s journey took him from South Africa to the UK, where he embraced the world of endurance sport. Competing in triathlons and multiple half IRONMAN races, he eventually conquered the prestigious IRONMAN Kärnten-Klagenfurt in Austria. But his heart remained in the water. He has since completed numerous marathon and ultra-marathon swims — including the iconic English Channel crossing (assisted with wetsuit), three successful Robben Island crossings, and the gruelling Double Langebaan Express 26 km swim.
After moving to Mauritius more than 15 years ago, Mark continued to explore the island’s pristine lagoons, coral reefs, and vibrant marine life — all through the lens of open water swimming. With a desire to share these breathtaking experiences, he founded Beyond Blue Swims — the first open water swim tour company in Mauritius dedicated to guided swim adventures and distance training weeks.
At Beyond Blue Swims, we believe that the ocean should be accessible to all who feel its call — whether you're dipping your toes beyond the shoreline for the first time or chasing your next endurance milestone. Our curated swim experiences are crafted to meet you where you are, challenge your limits, and leave you with memories as deep and enduring as the sea itself.
Mark E.
Founder Beyond Blue Swims
