FAQs

The level of swimming ability required to participate in open water swimming holidays varies depending on the specific trip and its targeted audience. Beyond Blue Swims offer a range of holidays catering to different skill levels, from beginners to experienced open water swimmers. For beginner-friendly holidays, participants are typically expected to have basic swimming skills and be comfortable in the water. These trips often include shorter, more leisurely swims in calm, sheltered waters, with the option to rest or receive assistance whenever needed.

Intermediate and advanced holidays generally require participants to have a higher level of swimming fitness and experience. Swimmers may be expected to cover longer distances or swim in more challenging conditions, such as open seas or varying water temperatures.

Before booking a trip, it is essential to check the specific requirements of the holiday you're interested in, and honestly assess your swimming abilities and fitness levels to ensure you choose a suitable option. If in doubt, reach out to Beyond Blue Swims to discuss your concerns and clarify any questions you may have about the level of difficulty and expectations for the trip.

Generally, these holidays are designed for adult participants, and we have a minimum age requirement, often 16 years old. This is to ensure that participants are physically capable of handling the demands of open water swimming and can manage their own safety.

In some cases, Beyond Blue Swims will allow younger swimmers to participate if they are accompanied by a parent or guardian and have demonstrated a high level of swimming ability and maturity. This decision is typically made on a case-by-case basis and will require prior approval.

Contact Beyond Blue Swims directly if you have questions or concerns about age restrictions or if you're considering bringing a younger swimmer along.

Beyond Blue Swims holidays are organized for small to medium-sized groups, often ranging from 5-7 participants. This size allows for a more personalized and intimate experience while ensuring that guides and support staff can effectively manage the group's safety and individual needs.

Smaller group sizes also enable participants to build connections with fellow swimmers and create a supportive, friendly atmosphere. Beyond Blue Swims may offer private or customized trips for smaller & large groups or individuals upon request.

Experienced guides and support staff: Beyond Blue Swims employs experienced and knowledgeable guides who are familiar with the local swimming conditions, currents, and potential hazards. We also provide support staff such as lifeguards, boat crews, or kayakers to monitor the swimmers and offer assistance when needed.

Pre-swim briefings: Before each swim, guides typically provide a thorough briefing on the route, expected conditions, and any potential hazards. The team also discusses safety protocols, communication signals, and emergency procedures to ensure participants are well-informed and prepared.

Safety equipment: we supply essential safety equipment, such as brightly colored swim buoys, swim caps which make swimmers more visible in the water.

Tailored swim routes: Swim routes are often designed to cater to the abilities and fitness levels of the group. Beyond Blue Swims offers multiple route options, shorter distances, or more leisurely swims for less experienced participants.

Buddy system or group swimming: Beyond Blue Swims encourage participants to swim in pairs or small groups, ensuring that no one is swimming alone and that swimmers can look out for one another.

Weather and water conditions monitoring: Guides and support staff will typically monitor weather and water conditions to ensure the safety of the participants. If conditions are deemed unsafe, we may adjust the swim route, postpone the swim, or offer alternative activities.

First aid and emergency response: Guides and support staff are trained in first aid and CPR and carry first aid kits on hand. Beyond Blue Swims also has a plan in place for emergency situations, such as contacting local rescue services or arranging transportation to medical facilities.

Some general considerations apply to most open water swimming holidays. Participants should be in good overall health and have a reasonable level of fitness to handle the physical demands of swimming in open-water environments.

Some medical conditions that may pose a risk or prevent someone from joining an open water swimming holiday include, but are not limited to:

Cardiovascular conditions: Uncontrolled high blood pressure, a history of heart attacks, or other severe heart conditions may pose a risk during strenuous physical activities like open water swimming.

Respiratory issues: Conditions such as severe asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may be aggravated by physical exertion and could impact a person's ability to participate in open water swimming activities.

Seizure disorders: People with a history of seizures or epilepsy should consult their healthcare provider before participating in an open water swimming holiday, as the water environment may pose additional risks.

Mobility limitations: Individuals with mobility limitations or disabilities that affect their ability to swim or safely navigate in open water environments may face challenges in participating in these holidays.

Severe allergies: Participants with severe allergies to marine life or other environmental factors present in the swimming locations may need to take extra precautions or reconsider joining an open water swimming holiday.

Recent surgeries or injuries: People recovering from recent surgeries or injuries should consult their healthcare provider to determine if they have sufficiently healed and can safely participate in open water swimming activities.

It is essential to consult your healthcare provider before joining an open water swimming holiday, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or concerns about your physical fitness. Be sure to inform Beyond Blue Swims of any relevant medical conditions or concerns when booking, as they may be able to offer advice or accommodation to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

The type of accommodation you can expect during an open water swimming holiday depends on the specific trip. Beyond Blue Swims aims to provide comfortable and enjoyable accommodations that enhances the overall holiday experience. Here are some common types of accommodations you might encounter:

Hotels: Beyond Blue Swims works with 5 star hotels that provide a comfortable stay, with amenities such as private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and on-site dining options. Hotels can range from budget-friendly to luxurious, depending on the trip's price point and the destination.

Guesthouses or B&Bs: Smaller, locally-owned guesthouses or bed and breakfasts can offer a more intimate and personalized experience. These accommodations usually have fewer rooms, providing a cozy atmosphere and the opportunity to interact with the hosts and other guests.

Resorts or lodges: In some destinations, operators may choose to book stays at resorts or lodges that offer additional amenities, such as swimming pools, spas, on-site dining, and recreational facilities. This type of accommodation can enhance the overall holiday experience by providing opportunities for relaxation and leisure outside of swimming activities.

Self-catering apartments or villas: For longer stays or trips with larger groups, operators may choose self-catering apartments or villas. These accommodations often feature multiple bedrooms, a living area, a fully-equipped kitchen, and sometimes even private pools or outdoor spaces.

It's essential to check the specific details of the accommodations included in the holiday package you're interested in to ensure they meet your needs and preferences. Additionally, consider reaching out to the holiday operator with any questions or concerns about the accommodations, or to request information about upgrades or special requests.

Beyond Blue Swims understand the importance of catering to various dietary restrictions and preferences and will make efforts to accommodate them. Common dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or lactose-free diets, are usually manageable with advance notice.

When booking your holiday, make sure to inform the team about your specific dietary requirements or preferences. Providing this information early allows Beyond Blue Swims to communicate with accommodations, restaurants, and catering services to ensure suitable meal options are available for you during your trip.

It's essential to understand that in some destinations or remote locations, the availability of specific ingredients or special diets might be limited. In such cases, the team will typically do their best to cater to your needs within the constraints of the local food culture and resources.

If you have severe allergies or highly specific dietary needs, consider discussing these with Beyond Blue Swims before booking to ensure they can accommodate your requirements and provide a safe and enjoyable dining experience throughout your holiday.

The daily schedule during an open water swimming holiday can vary depending on the specific trip and local conditions. However, a typical day on such a holiday might follow this general structure:

Breakfast: The day usually starts with an early healthy breakfast at your accommodation, providing the energy needed for the day's swimming activities.

Meet up with boat & Pre-swim briefing: Before setting out for the day's swim, the guides will gather the group to provide a briefing on the planned route, expected conditions, safety measures, and any points of interest.

Morning swim: The first swim of the day typically takes place in the morning, with the group heading out to the chosen location. This swim could last anywhere from 1-2 hours, depending on the route's difficulty and the group's pace. The plan is to have you in the water by 9:30

Rehydrate & relaxation: After the morning swim, the group will have a snack, rehydrate with drinks and relax on the boat. This is a great time to see the island from a different perspective.

Midday swim: The midday swim session will typically be at a different location and may vary in length and difficulty from the morning swim. The duration of the swim will range from 1-1.5hours, depending on the route’s difficulty and groups pace. The group will be guided and supported by the staff throughout the swim.

Post-swim relaxation: After the midday swim, participants will have time to relax at the hotel, socialize with fellow swimmers, or explore the local area. We aim to have you back at your accommodation no later than 14:00.

Dinner: In the evening, the group will enjoy dinner together, either at the accommodation or a local restaurant. This is an opportunity to sample local cuisine and share experiences from the day's swims.

Evening downtime: After dinner, participants can unwind and enjoy some free time before getting a good night's sleep in preparation for the next day's adventures.

It's important to note that the specific daily schedule may be subject to change depending on weather conditions, water temperatures, or other factors. The guides and support staff will adapt the schedule as needed to ensure the safety and enjoyment of the group. Be sure to check the itinerary and details provided by Beyond Blue Swims for the open water swimming holiday you're interested in to get a better idea of the daily schedule and planned activities.

For open water swimming holidays, it's essential to come prepared with the right equipment to ensure you have a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience. Here's a list of items you should consider bringing with you:

Waterproof day carry bag: A suitable size waterproof dry bag is essential on a swimming holiday to keep your valuables, dry clothes, snacks, and electronics safe from water, whether on a boat, beach, or during transitions.

Swimsuit: Bring at least one or two swimsuits, ideally made from quick-drying material, suitable for open water swimming.

Water bottles: Bringing 2 x 1L water bottles ensures you stay properly hydrated before and after your swim. It’s especially important in our warm climate where dehydration can affect performance and recovery.

Sunglasses, sun hat and sun scream are essential for sun protection. They shield your eyes, skin, and face from harmful UV rays, prevent sunburn, and help you stay comfortable throughout the day.

Goggles: High-quality, well-fitting goggles are crucial for clear vision and comfort during your swims. It's a good idea to bring a spare pair just in case.

Swim cap: A brightly colored swim cap can help increase your visibility in the water and provide some protection from the sun, Beyond Blue Swims will provide swimmers with a swim cap.

Swim Buoy: Swimming with a buoy ensures safety by increasing visibility to boats, providing flotation if needed, and helping guides monitor swimmers. It’s lightweight, unobtrusive, and essential for open water safety.

Flippers: Swimmers are welcome to use flippers if they prefer. Flippers can provide extra propulsion, support, and confidence, especially for less experienced swimmers or those wanting a more relaxed swim experience.

Snorkels: If you feel comfortable with a snorkel, bring one. Snorkels allow for easier breathing, especially over longer distances, and help swimmers stay relaxed and focused while enjoying the underwater scenery.

Wetsuit: Depending on the water temperature and your preference, you may need a wetsuit to help you stay warm and comfortable during your swims. Mauritius water temperatures range from 24 deg c to 30 deg c and wetsuits could see you become uncomfortable.

Neoprene swim shorts: boost buoyancy around the hips, helping maintain a higher body position. This improves streamlining, reduces drag, and supports better technique, making swimming more efficient and less tiring.

Rash guard or sun protection shirt: To protect your skin from the sun and potential chafing from your wetsuit, consider packing a rash guard or sun protection shirt. Rash guards also offer better protection from jelly fish.

Towel: A quick-dry microfiber towel is ideal for open water swimming, as it takes up less space in your bag and dries rapidly.

Water shoes: Depending on the terrain at the swimming locations, you may want to bring water shoes or sandals to protect your feet from sharp rocks or slippery surfaces.

Earplugs: If you're prone to ear infections or simply prefer swimming with earplugs, don't forget to pack a pair.

Sunscreen: Choose a high-SPF, water-resistant sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun during your swims and while you're onshore.

Personal swim buoy: Some operators may provide swim buoys, but if you have a preferred personal buoy or want to ensure availability, bring your own.

Hydration and snacks: Bring a reusable water bottle and some energy-boosting snacks to stay hydrated and fueled during your swims.

First aid kit: It's always a good idea to have a small personal first aid kit with essentials like band-aids, pain relievers, and any personal medication you may need.

A lightweight, breathable waterproof jacket is essential for protection against wind and rain during boat transfers or sudden weather changes, keeping you dry and warm.

Documentation: Bring any necessary travel documents, identification, and insurance information.

Beyond Blue Swims open water swimming holidays are designed for beginners, while others cater to more experienced swimmers.

For beginner-friendly holidays, you generally do not need prior open water swimming experience. Participants should, however, have basic swimming skills and be comfortable in the water. These trips often feature shorter, more leisurely swims in calmer, sheltered waters, with plenty of support from guides and staff.

If you are interested in a holiday that caters to intermediate or advanced swimmers, prior open water swimming experience will be beneficial and is required. These trips usually involve swimming longer distances or in more challenging conditions, such as outer lagoon, wind chop in some instances and stronger currents.

Before booking an open water swimming holiday, make sure to carefully review the specific requirements and skill levels for the trip you're interested in. If you have any doubts or concerns about your swimming abilities, contact the Beyond Blue Swims to discuss your situation and receive guidance on choosing an appropriate trip.

The best time of the year to book an open water swimming holiday depends on your personal preferences, and the type of swimming experience you're looking for. Beyond Blue Swims trips are organized taking into account moon phases with the best intention to have calmer conditions but this is totally our of our control as mother nature is the master. Here are some factors to consider when planning your trip:

Water temperature: If you prefer warmer water for swimming, plan your holiday during the summer months. Mauritius considers our summer months from October to May. Our water temperatures in the summer months are approximately 28 deg Celsius and in the cooler months the water temperature drops to approximately24 deg Celsius. Peerfect for all year round swimming.

Weather: In general, the best weather conditions for open water swimming tend to occur during the late spring, summer, and early autumn months. During these periods, you'll typically encounter milder air temperatures, calmer waters, and more predictable weather patterns.

Local swimming seasons: Mauritius has beautiful open water swimming conditions throughout the year, water temperature does drop a to 24 deg Celsius from June to October. These months are also considered our cooler months.

Crowds and availability: The peak travel season is from October to April, which affect the availability and pricing of accommodations and other services. Booking your swimming holiday during the shoulder season or off-peak times may result in fewer crowds and more affordable rates.

Personal schedule: Consider your own schedule and commitments when planning your open water swimming holiday. You'll want to ensure you have enough time to properly train and prepare for your trip, as well as enough time to enjoy the holiday itself without feeling rushed.

Ultimately, the best time of the year to book an open water swimming holiday is a personal decision based on your preferences and circumstances.

Yes, we know that swimmers may want to share their experience with a non-swimming partner or family member, and we often accommodate such requests. Depending on the specific trip, non-swimmers may be able to join the group for meals, sightseeing, and other activities while the swimming sessions take place.

We can offer alternative activities for non-swimmers, such as guided hikes, cultural tours, or water-based activities like snorkeling or kayaking. This allows non-swimming companions to enjoy their own adventures while the swimmers are participating in their open water sessions.

Before booking your open water swimming holiday, it's better to discuss your desire to bring a non-swimming partner or family member with us. We can provide you with information on the available options and any additional costs associated with bringing a non-swimmer on the trip.

Beyond Blue will refund 90% of the booking fee if the trip is cancelled up to 30 days prior to the week of the swim. 10% is kept for administration charges.

In the event of weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances that prevent safe swimming, Beyond Blue Swims reserves the right to alter, postpone, or substitute activities. No refund is issued, but we will provide an alternative program or offer partial credit for future use.

For our beginner-family friendly holidays, Beyond Blue Swims typically choose routes that are shorter, more leisurely, and in calmer, sheltered waters of the lagoons. This allows participants with less experience to gain confidence in open water swimming without feeling overwhelmed. Once the swimmers are confident in the water, the group can then head out side of the lagoons.

Trips catering to intermediate or advanced swimmers may involve longer distances, more challenging conditions, or varied swimming environments, in the open seas. These routes are designed to challenge and engage more experienced swimmers.

Beyond Blue Swims does its best to offer flexible itineraries, where daily swimming routes can be adjusted to accommodate different abilities within the group. In these cases, the guides may provide alternative routes, additional support, or coaching to ensure a satisfying experience for all participants.

Before booking the open water swimming holiday, carefully review the trip details and requirements to ensure the swimming routes are suitable for your ability level. If you have any concerns or questions about the routes, contact Beyond Blue Swims to discuss your needs and receive guidance on selecting an appropriate trip.

Accommodation: Beyond Blue Swims packages include lodging for the duration of the trip, often in comfortable hotels, guesthouses, or other local accommodations??

Meals: Our packages include some meals, such as daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Operators may arrange group meals at local restaurants, picnics, or catering at the accommodation.?

Guided swims: The package will include daily guided open water swimming sessions led by experienced swim guides and supported by safety personnel.

Safety equipment and support: Beyond Blue Swims will provide necessary safety equipment, such as swim buoys, and support vessels like kayaks or boats to accompany the group during swims.

Local transportation: Beyond Blue Swims packages include transportation to and from swimming locations, as well as any transfers required during the trip.

Expert guidance: Open water swimming holidays are led by knowledgeable guides who can offer insights into the local area, swimming techniques, and safety tips.

Items that are generally not included in the package cost are:

International or domestic flights to and from the starting location of the trip.

Personal travel insurance, which is often recommended or even required by the operator.

Personal expenses, such as souvenirs, snacks, or drinks outside of the meals provided.

Additional activities: Such as sightseeing excursions, cultural experiences and other adventure sports.

If you have any questions or concerns about what's included, be sure to discuss them with the Beyond Blue Swims team before booking your trip

Our core swimming holiday program is not focused on coaching and technique but with Mark experience, he will gladly offer pointers and advise to those swimmers who request. On the trips the focus is primarily on coaching and technique improvement, with daily sessions led by experienced swim coaches these will be communicated in the itinerary. In such instances these sessions could cover various aspects of open water swimming, such as stroke technique, sighting, breathing, and navigating currents. Workshops may also address specific open water skills like swimming in groups or handling various environmental conditions.

If coaching or technique workshops are important to you, contact the Beyond Blue Swims to discuss the level of coaching provided and ensure the trip meets your expectations for skill development and improvement.

Here's how Beyond Blue Swims typically handle weather-related changes or cancellations:

Monitoring weather conditions: Our team closely monitors local weather conditions leading up to and during the trip. We rely on forecasts, local knowledge, and real-time observations to make informed decisions about daily activities.

Adapting the itinerary: If adverse weather conditions are expected, the team may modify the planned itinerary to provide alternative swimming locations or routes that are more suitable and safer given the conditions. This may involve swimming in more sheltered waters, shortening the swimming distance, or changing the order of planned activities.

Rescheduling swims: In some cases, we may reschedule swimming sessions to a different time of day when conditions are expected to improve, if possible, within the trip's timeframe.

Alternative activities: If swimming is not possible due to weather conditions, we may offer alternative land-based or water-based activities, such as cultural tours, hiking, or indoor swimming sessions.

Cancellations: In the rare event that weather conditions make it unsafe or impossible to continue with any part of the trip, Beyond Blue Swims will follow our established cancellation policies. This could involve offering a partial refund, rescheduling the trip, or providing credit towards a future booking.

As an open water swimming holiday operator, we prioritize the safety and enjoyment of our guests. While we cannot control the weather, we are experienced in adapting to changing conditions and ensuring the best possible experience for participants under the circumstances.

The measures Beyond Blue Swims are taking to promote environmental sustainability and responsible tourism:

Leave No Trace principles: we adhere to Leave No Trace principles, encouraging participants to minimize their impact on the environment by disposing of waste properly, avoiding disturbances to wildlife, and respecting natural habitats.

Supporting local communities: as responsible operators we prioritize partnering with local businesses and service providers for accommodations, meals, and activities to support the local economy and promote cultural exchange.

Environmental education: Swim guides and staff provide information on the local environment, its conservation, and ways in which guests can minimize their impact during the trip.

Wildlife protection: we follow guidelines to protect local wildlife, such as maintaining a safe distance from marine life, avoiding nesting, or breeding areas, and refraining from feeding wild animals.

Limiting group size: we limit group sizes to minimize environmental impact and ensure a more authentic and intimate experience for participants.

Collaboration with conservation organizations: Beyond Blue Swims collaborates with local conservation organizations to support their efforts, raise awareness, or contribute financially through donations or a portion of the trip fees.

Beyond Blue Swims offers the option to customize your trip or request a private group booking, depending on our availability and resources. Customized trips or private bookings can be tailored to your specific preferences and requirements, such as the choice of swimming locations, accommodation, daily activities, and the level of coaching or support provided.

Some general guidance on choosing travel insurance that covers the unique aspects of open water swimming holidays:

Medical coverage: Ensure that the policy includes comprehensive medical coverage for accidents or illnesses, including emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and medical evacuation. It's crucial to verify that the policy covers swimming-related injuries and open water swimming activities.

Trip cancellation and interruption: Choose a policy that covers trip cancellation and interruption due to unforeseen circumstances, such as personal illness, family emergencies, or severe weather conditions. This coverage can help you recover costs for non-refundable expenses like flights, accommodations, or trip deposits.

Baggage and personal belongings: Opt for a policy that includes coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged baggage and personal belongings, especially if you're bringing valuable swimming equipment like wetsuits or waterproof cameras.

Adventure sports coverage: Since open water swimming can be considered an adventure sport, look for a policy that specifically covers adventure sports or recreational activities. Some policies may require an additional premium or rider to cover these types of activities.

Liability coverage: Consider a policy that includes personal liability coverage in case you accidentally cause injury to someone else or damage their property during your holiday.

Travel assistance: Some insurance providers offer 24/7 travel assistance services, which can be helpful in case of emergencies or unforeseen issues during your trip.

Reputable provider: Choose a reputable insurance provider with positive customer reviews and a solid track record of handling claims efficiently and fairly.

Before purchasing travel insurance, carefully read the policy details and exclusions to ensure it provides adequate coverage for your open water swimming holiday.

Here is some general guidance on vaccinations and travel documents for visiting Mauritius:

Vaccinations:

It is always recommended to consult with your healthcare provider or a travel medicine specialist to discuss your specific travel plans and receive the most up-to-date recommendations for vaccinations.

Routine vaccinations: Ensure you are up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and your yearly flu shot.

Hepatitis A: The CDC recommends Hepatitis A vaccination for most travelers to Mauritius due to the potential risk of contracting the virus through contaminated food or water.

Typhoid: It's also recommended to get vaccinated against typhoid, especially if you plan to venture off the usual tourist routes, as you may be exposed to contaminated food or water.

Travel Documents:

Passport: You must have a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity beyond your planned departure date from Mauritius. Ensure your passport has enough blank pages for entry and exit stamps.

Visa: Mauritius generally offers visa-free entry for tourists from many countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, South Africa, European Union, Canada, and Australia, for stays up to 60 or 90 days. However, it's important to verify the specific visa requirements for your nationality before you travel.

Return or onward ticket: You may be required to show proof of a return or onward ticket when entering Mauritius.

Proof of accommodation: You should be prepared to provide evidence of your accommodation arrangements, such as a hotel reservation or an invitation letter from your host.

Sufficient funds: You may need to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in Mauritius. This can typically be done with bank statements, credit cards, or cash.

Always verify the current entry requirements, travel advisories, and vaccination recommendations for Mauritius before your trip, as they may change over time.