The dangers of swimming in Bristol Harbour
It is illegal to jump into, swim in, or dive in any part of Bristol Harbour, unless you're in a designated swimming area.
Dangers of swimming in the harbour
Bristol Harbour is a working harbour with boats and other watercraft of varying sizes navigating the waterway. There are also many moving parts to the harbour infrastructure within the water.
Dangers of swimming in the harbour outside of any formal arrangements with professional safety supervision and direction include:
- cold water shock
- getting hit by a boat
- hazardous or discarded objects under the water
- occasional very strong currents due to scouring operations
- occasional poor water quality
Swimming in groups does not reduce any of these risks.
Find out more about water safety on the National Water Safety Forum website.
If someone's in trouble in the water
If you get into trouble near the water, or notice someone who needs help in the water:
- Phone the Harbour Office: 0117 903 1484, option 2 for emergencies
- Call VHF Channel 73, call sign ‘Bristol Floating Harbour'
- Call 999 and ask for the Fire and Rescue Service
Float to Live
The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) have created a Float To Live toolkit with videos and other resources on what to do if you find yourself struggling in water.
Designated swim sessions
All Aboard Water Sports deliver safely managed swim sessions in Baltic Wharf. Visit their website for information on when and where swim sessions take place and how to book.