Warmer than the English Channel Crossing

 Nevis to St. Kitts Cross Channel Swim Celebrates 24th Anniversary

by Stephen Weir

Forget swimming the English Channel. The Nevis to St. Kitts Cross-Channel Swim is a challenging yet rewarding experience, offering participants the chance to cross the scenic Caribbean waters between the sister islands of Nevis and St. Kitts. Celebrating its 24th anniversary at the end of the month, the event has grown into a premier sporting occasion with a focus on conservation and community.

According to Laura Johnston, the event’s PR specialist, excitement is building. "It is coming up soon, and it’s a swim you won’t want to miss," she told the Caribbean Camera.

Stephen Weir, our reporter and an avid scuba diver, has explored these waters numerous times. While he hasn't swum the channel, his underwater experiences in the area are unforgettable. "You never know what you're going to see," said Weir. "A few years ago, I was close to the Nevis shoreline when I happened to look down and saw 40 or so lobsters walking in a conga line across the bottom!"

The iconic 2.5-mile (4.1 km) swim draws competitors and recreational swimmers from around the globe. Participants can experience the natural beauty of the Caribbean while supporting important environmental and social causes. For those seeking a complete island experience, international visitors can book an accommodation and swim-entry package through SwimTrek (https://www.swimtrek.com/).

Swimmers have the option to compete in the open water race or enjoy a more relaxed swim using fins. The journey begins at Oualie Beach on Nevis and ends at the Spice Mill Restaurant in Cockleshell Bay, St. Kitts. This inclusive format ensures that both elite athletes and casual swimmers can take part in this extraordinary event.

"We are proud to support the Nevis to St. Kitts Cross Channel Swim—a thrilling event that showcases our islands' natural beauty and the determination of its participants," said Marsha Henderson, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, and Urban Development. "This swim has become a symbol of our vibrant tourism scene, attracting visitors and athletes from around the world."