Maybe you’ve already booked onto a swim with us or just want to know a bit more. Here is a run-through on what to expect when you book a guided swim with River to Reef Water Safety.
Before the Swim
Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive all the key details you need to feel prepared and confident. This includes meeting location, timings, kit recommendations, and local information about the swim area. Whether you’re joining us for a sea swim around Burgh Island, the famous Avon Swoosh or a bespoke swim, our aim is to make everything simple and stress-free.
Our guided swims are designed as a relaxed day out as well as a memorable swim experience. South Devon offers some of the most pristine and beautiful water in the UK, from sheltered estuaries to dramatic open coast.
Meeting Your Lifeguard Team
On arrival, you’ll be met by some of our friendly lifeguards and swim guides whose sole focus is your safety and enjoyment in the water. We’ll introduce ourselves, talk through the plan for the swim, and check everyone is comfortable with the route and conditions. This is a great time to ask questions, whether you’re curious about tides, water temperature, or local wildlife. If you are feeling uneasy, have a chat with one of our staff members who can help answer any questions or worries you have!
Safety Brief and Conditions Check
Before anyone gets in the water, we carry out a full safety briefing. This covers entry and exit points, swim route, signals, and what to do if you need support. We’ll also talk through the conditions on the day, including tides, swell, wind, and visibility.
Every guided swim is supported by active lifeguard supervision. We continuously assess the water and adapt the swim if needed, so you can relax and enjoy the experience knowing your safety comes first.
The Swim Experience
Whether you’re swimming in and out of coves and gullies around Burgh Island or riding the flow of the Avon Swoosh, it’s an experience that feels adventurous while remaining under the safe watch of our SLSB lifeguards. As we only accept group bookings, you’ll always know the others swimming with you, and we will make sure that there is adequate lifeguard provision to cover different speed and “desire to explore” levels. Expect crystal clear water on some days and dramatic scenery on others. Either way, there are always stunning views and that unbeatable feeling of swimming in nature.
After the Swim
After the swim, we make sure everyone exits the water safely and has time to warm up. Many of our locations, including Burgh Island, Bantham, and Salcombe, are perfect for turning your swim into a full day out with a walk, coffee, or beach time afterwards.
Why Choose a Guided Swim in South Devon
Swimming with a professional lifeguard team allows you to experience some of the best swim spots in South Devon safely and confidently. You benefit from local knowledge, structured safety cover, and a welcoming atmosphere that puts people at ease in the water.
If you’re looking for a guided swim, a safe way to try a new location, and a memorable way to explore the beautiful coast, rivers, and beaches of South Devon, our lifeguard-led swims are designed with you in mind.
Whether it’s Burgh Island, the River Avon swoosh, or a bespoke location, we look forward to welcoming you into the water.