FAQs
What is Swim51?
Swim51 is an organization dedicated to facilitating open water swimming adventures, including Lake Ontario crossings. We provide comprehensive support such as boats, experienced captains, equipment, and route planning to ensure a safe and memorable experience.
What routes are available for Lake Ontario crossings?
Contact UsThe traditional South-to-North route begins at Niagara-on-the-Lake and spans approximately 51 kilometers, concluding in Toronto. This route is renowned for its challenging conditions, including varying water temperatures and unpredictable currents. There are other routes available across the Lake, as well as some near shore swims. Contact us for further information.
How long does a Lake Ontario crossing typically take?
Crossing times vary based on individual pace and conditions but generally range from 14 to 24 hours or more. Factors such as water temperature, currents, and weather can significantly influence the duration of your swim. Not to mention physical and mental preparation.
What support does Swim51 provide for the crossing?
Swim51 offers a comprehensive support package that includes:
- A main escort boat and two zodiacs with experienced crew (the zodiac crew is your responsibility)
- Route planning and navigation assistance
- Safety equipment and protocols
- Guidance on training and preparation
Our team ensures all aspects of the swim adhere to safety standards and regulations. We also enforce appropriate behavior on our boats. (And make sure that you do not bring bananas on board)
Are there age requirements for attempting a crossing?
Yes, swimmers must be at least 14 years old to undertake a Lake Ontario crossing. This age requirement aligns with safety guidelines set by Solo Swims of Ontario.
How should I prepare for the swim?
Preparation involves:
- Endurance Training: Building the stamina to swim continuously for extended periods
- Cold Water Acclimatization: Training in cooler water temperatures to adapt to Lake Ontario's conditions
- Open Water Skills: Practicing navigation, feeding, and swimming in varying conditions
Joining a master's swim team or participating in open water training sessions can be highly beneficial.
For local swimmers we strongly recommend LOST Swimming
https://lostswimming.com/ as well as swimming groups such as GLOW.
What are the main challenges of a Lake Ontario crossing?
Swimmers may encounter:
- Cold water temperatures, even in the summer
- Strong and unpredictable currents
- Sudden changes in weather conditions
- Night swimming in limited visibility
- AND most definitely mental and physical stress
Understanding these challenges is key to successfully training, prepping and completing a crossing.
Is a trial swim required before attempting the full crossing?
Yes, completing a trial swim in similar conditions is required by SOLO Swims of Ontario: www.soloswims.com to assess readiness and acclimatize to the environment.
How can I register for a Lake Ontario crossing with Swim51?
Register Today!To register:
- Visit our website’s registration section
- Complete the form with your details
- Submit the required documentation and fees
Our team will then contact you to discuss the next steps and help guide your preparation.
What safety measures are in place during the swim?
Safety is our top priority. Measures include:
- Escort boats equipped with communication devices and emergency gear
- Experienced crew trained in emergency response
- Pre-swim safety briefings
- Constant monitoring of weather and water conditions
These measures ensure the safety of both swimmer and crew throughout the event. Solo Swims of Ontario will also delegate a Swim Master (SM) on every swim. The SM will have the power to terminate the swim and is an observer put in place to look out for the swimmer’s well being.
What equipment is provided by Swim51 for the crossing?
Swim51 provides all the essential support gear, including:
- A primary escort boat and two zodiacs
- Marine radios and GPS navigation equipment
- Safety gear (first aid kits, flares, emergency beacons, etc.)
- Lighting for night swims
- Feeding poles and hydration containers
- Tow lines and swimmer tracking systems
All equipment is managed by experienced crew and included in the crossing package.
What equipment do I need to bring as a swimmer?
Swimmers are responsible for bringing:
- Swimsuit (non-wetsuit if pursuing an official swim). Please consult rules of MSF marathonswimmers.org/rules/
- Swim cap(s)
- Goggles (plus at least one spare)
- Personal nutrition and hydration
- Anti-chafing cream (e.g., lanolin, Vaseline)
- Headlamp or glow sticks for night visibility
- Towels, warm clothing, and recovery snacks
Your crew and /or Swim51 team will help manage and distribute your supplies during the swim.
Can I wear a wetsuit for the Lake Ontario crossing?
Although not advisable, a wetsuit can be used if you're doing the swim for personal achievement only. However, if you're aiming for an official swim certification (e.g., through Solo Swims of Ontario), you'll need to swim without a wetsuit—wearing only a textile swimsuit, cap, and goggles.
Do you provide feeding support during the swim?
Feedings are done from the support boat using feeding poles and pre-prepared containers. This is typically done by a crew member brought by the swimmer. Swim51 coordinates with you to establish a feeding schedule and can assist with planning and trial runs during your training.
What if my equipment fails during the swim (e.g., goggles break)?
It’s strongly recommended to bring backups of essential items. If equipment fails during the swim, replacements can be handed to you from the boat without disqualification (if done according to official rules). Swim51 crew is experienced in managing these situations quickly and efficiently.