The route

750m Distance

A very achievable swim and the ideal length for first timers. You’ll swim in a looped route from the shore back to the quay at Sea Eagles Harbour.

30 lengths of a 25m pool.
Cut off time: You must finish in 40 minutes.

2.0km Distance

A more challenging swim, perfect for those with a bit more experience. A longer looped route from the shore and back to Sea Eagles Harbour.

80 lengths of a 25m pool
Cut off time: You must finish in 1 hour 30 minutes.

3.9km Distance

Set yourself a real challenge and swim this full Ironman distance. This longer looped route around Bushy Island is ideal for confident and experienced open water swimmers.

156 lengths of a 25m pool.
Cut off time: You must reach 1.9km in 45 mins & finish in 1 hour 45 mins.
We recommend a wetsuit for this distance.

Safety & entry requirements

The water temperature at this time of year is usually around 12°C. You’ll need some open water swimming experience to compete in all distances. Choose your distance carefully – you’ll need to have experience of swimming this distance in similar temperatures before you compete.

Tow-floats must be worn by all competitors. You can rent these when you enter or on the day at the information desk. Our team of expert kayakers and safety boats will be with you all the way and there will be a medical team on hand.

Part of the Great Swim Trilogy

This is the second event of the Gaelforce Great Swim Trilogy. Swim in the River Shannon, Lough Derg and Killary Fjord to complete the trilogy and collect your exclusive Gaelforce Great Swim Trilogy branded towel robe! Sign up for all three at the same time before the deadline on the 17 May 2025 to qualify.

We’ve designed the Great Swim Trilogy to follow the journey from lake to river to sea. With events in late spring, mid-summer and autumn, you can build your experience and distances as you go. The perfect challenge for your swimming year.
Gaelforce Great River Swim | Gaelforce Great Fjord Swim

Route map