MOWSA helps swimmers challenge themselves and reach big goals in Massachusetts' waters.

MOWSA currently offers several solo, sanctioned swims that challenge marathon swimmers over long distances in cold water. All swims require an escort pilot, swimmer’s crew member and an official MOWSA Observer on board to document the effort.

Bookings for 2026 swims are now open. Please visit the established swim pages for available dates or contact us for new routes and courses.

Swims booked prior to May 1, 2026 will be guaranteed scheduling. Applications received after this date require at least 65 days lead time (per Coast Guard regulations) and will be scheduled as available. Swims booked after May 1 are not guaranteed placement in the 2026 season.

How it Works:

1. Understand the rules and risks. Before applying, please review MOWSA’s solo swim rules, safety requirements, and shark protocol to ensure you understand the expectations and inherent risks of marathon open water swimming.

2. Review available routes and dates. Open swim routes and available dates are published on each individual solo swim route page. Applications may be submitted immediately—there is no need to contact MOWSA in advance.

3. Submit your application and deposit. To secure a tentative spot, submit a completed application along with a $150 non-refundable deposit. Dates and routes can be adjusted after submission, if needed, based on availability and logistics.

   • Priority 2026 placement: Qualified swimmers who apply by May 1, 2026 will be guaranteed placement on the 2026 calendar.

   • Rolling applications: Applications submitted after May 1 require a minimum 65-day lead time and are not guaranteed placement in the 2026 season. This lead time is required for us to file the necessary permits with the US Coast Guard and arrange for a trained, official MOWSA Observer.

4. Arrange your support team. Swimmers are responsible for assembling their on-the-water support team, including:

   • Identifying a crew member to administer feeds and provide swimmer support.

   • Securing an escort boat and agreeing with the pilot on stipend, meeting time, and launch location, based on tide and route requirements. MOWSA has a list of experienced escort boaters and can put you in touch with those that have piloted with us in the past, if you do not have a particular pilot in mind.

5. Submit payment of the balance and final details. Final payment is due no less than two weeks prior to the scheduled swim date. Sanctioning fees support observer compensation, event administration, and MOWSA’s nonprofit mission.

6. Pre-swim coordination meeting. A required pre-swim meeting will take place a few days before your swim with the swimmer, boater, crew, and MOWSA. This meeting confirms logistics, readiness, safety and communication protocols with the assigned MOWSA Observer, and gives us an opportunity to discuss the likely conditions during your swim.

7. Optional swim tracking. Swimmers may independently arrange live tracking to share progress with friends and family. Register your swim and request tracking services from our partner, Track.RS to use with your mobile phone, a SPOT tracker, or another GPS device. It’s a great way to keep loved ones apprised of your progress!

8. Achieve your goal!

Banner photo by Elaine K. Howley