If you love open water swimming, whatever your speed or style, you will find a group of kindred spirits here. We swim year round in all conditions with only a swimsuit and a thermal cap. We hold a series of club swims and all members are welcome to participate. This is your chance to have a safe swim outside the cove with breakfast and awards afterward. Some of the favorites are the New Year's Day Alcatraz, Kirby Cove, Anita Rock, Pier 7 and the Golden Gate.
The emphasis in each of these swims is safety and participation. If you're interested in participating in the South End Alcatraz Invitational swim, a race open to the public, please register. This is a terrific 1.25 mile race; and we'll even let you wear a wetsuit!
Getting started is easy, just come down to the club and introduce yourself. Helping out at a club event is another way to meet the members and learn the dynamics of the group. See the answers to the more frequently asked questions or download the NEW MEMBER SWIM GUIDE:
Which events are open to the public?
Is it dangerous?
How clean is the water?
What are the signs of hypothermia?
What should I do if I feel hypothermic?
How do I learn to pilot?
What if I prefer to wear a wetsuit?
What if I'm not a fast, competitive type of swimmer?
Which
events are open to the public?
The
Alcatraz Invitational is the only event open to the public. Day use is available for $6.50 on alternating days with the Dolphin Club.
Is Bay swimming dangerous?
Yes. Boats are the most dangerous thing to watch for when swimming outside of the Aquatic Park cove. Hypothermia can be lethal, so you must learn and respect your limits in the cold water. Sea lions have been known to bite, but this is rare.
How clean is the water?
Runoff after a heavy rain can contaminate the Bay water. Generally, though, the water is clean enough to swim in every day. The salty taste, lack of clarity due to algae and other marine life, and ocean smell may be off-putting to some. These aspects aren't "dirty", and you will get used to it the way you got used to the chlorine.
What are the signs of hypothermia?
Cold, shivering, mental confusion, suddenly feeling warm and that you could go on forever are all signs of hypothermia.
Sometimes there are signals once you are out of the water that indicate you have gone beyond your limits. Dizziness, nausea, itchy or blotchy skin, physical weakness, and mental confusion are among those symptoms.
What should I do if I feel hypothermic?
If you feel any of the above signs during an in-cove swim, head back right away and get out as soon as possible. If you are participating in an out-of-cove swim, let a pilot know about your condition immediately. Ask the pilot to watch you carefully or get in the zodiac and wrap up in blankets. Warm up in the shower first - sit down if you feel faint - then move to the sauna. Sip warm liquids while showering and in the sauna. Hypothermia often seems to be linked to hydration.
How do I learn to pilot?
Piloting workshops are held periodically - keep an eye out for updates. You can also take out a kayak and pilot along with the zodiac or other kayaks. If you think your ready to pilot take the SWIMMER & PILOT SAFETY EXAM. The bottom line: if you express an interest, there will be no shortage of people to help you.
What if I prefer to wear a wetsuit?
While most swimmers at the club do not wear wetsuits, some members are more comfortable wearing a wetsuit until they are able to acclimate. It is up to you whether you choose to wear a wetsuit.
What if I'm not a fast, competitive type of swimmer?
There are people of all different speeds at the club. All abilities are welcome. Try to identify others who are your speed so that you can swim together.