Hundreds take on Castle to Castle swim in support of RNLI

The one-mile open water challenge, which stretches between Pendennis Castle in Falmouth and St Mawes Castle on the Roseland Peninsula, saw all 392 participants successfully complete the crossing. Together, they have raised over £80,000 to support the RNLI’s lifesaving work.

The event, now a firm fixture in the local calendar, continues to attract swimmers of all ages and abilities from across the UK, united by a shared sense of purpose and community spirit.

RNLI Fundraising and Partnership Lead, Dave Nicoll, highlighted the significance of the event, saying:

‘This event is driven by an incredible sense of community, drawing people from all corners of the UK, each carrying their own meaningful reason for taking part.

‘Whether it’s pushing personal limits, honouring a loved one, or enjoying a challenge alongside friends and family, everyone is united by the goal of supporting the RNLI and its lifesaving volunteers.

'This event would not be possible without over 100 amazing volunteers, both on the water and ashore, including Gyllyngvase and Falmouth Surf Lifesaving Clubs, RNLI lifeguards, RNLI lifeboat volunteers and the harbour teams from Falmouth and St Mawes.'

From seasoned swimmers to first-time challengers, a huge array of participants took on the swim.

Felix crossed the line first, completing the course in an impressive 24 minutes and 6 seconds. He was closely followed by Harry, who finished second in 25 minutes and 41 seconds.

The fastest female swimmer was Rose, who delivered an outstanding performance with a time of 27 minutes and 31 seconds.

Notes to editors:

A selection of images are available, please credit Stacie Nicoll Antreth Photography

RNLI Media Contacts

For further information, please contact:

Annabelle Spiers, RNLI Communications Placement at [email protected] or on 07521943895, or Emma Haines, RNLI Regional Communications Manager, on 07786 668847 or [email protected], or RNLI press office on 01202 336789

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.

Learn more about the RNLI

For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, TikTok and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.

Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.