What is the typical distance to each swim?

26 km

What is the water temperature?

Ranging from 14 to 19 degrees.

What time do the swims generally start?

Whatever the tides times are.

What are the normal tidal currents during the swim?

Vary.

How many people have successfully completed the swim?

54 to date.

Are experienced captains available?

Phil coordinates the swim including captains, boats and support people.

Do you need a kayaker as well?

No. Inflatable boat is supplied.

What percentage of swims encounter sharks. 

1 swim in 6. Fish life is well fed and only come around to be nosey.

Has anyone ever been attacked during a swim?

NO

What other forms of marine hazards are present?

Jellyfish.

How many people attempt the swim each year?

Around 3 upwards

What are the beach conditions (rocks, sand, etc) at the start and finish?

Both sides have rock cliffs, some very small rocky beaches.

What are the most common reasons attempts fail?

Not swimming at the pace stated prior to the attempt.  

·  Not fit enough.  

·  Hypothermia  

·  Change in weather conditions

How often will I be able to feed with the tidal conditions?

Every 30 minutes is preferable.

What is the most difficult part of the swim?

Getting across Cook Strait and finishing

If there is an emergency, what is the typical response time?

Phil is a Fire-fighter and extensively trained in first aid. Helicopter is 10 minutes away.

How much shipping traffic is encountered?

Very little, 1 – 2 per swim.

Do the captains/boats have sophisticated navigational equipment to plot the course?

The team I put together is very experienced and the launch is fully equipped.

What are the typical costs of hotels, feed etc in Wellington?

Allow $NZ150.00 per night food and accommodation.

How long a time frame should I give myself?

A minimum of two weeks. You will have to book your swim in as swimmers usually book up to two years in advance. If you are still interested please phone or correspond by fax.