Join the winter solstice swim to support NSRI's lifesaving work
Swimmers across South Africa are encouraged to plunge into tidal pools, dams, or even ice buckets on Saturday June 21 to raise funds for the National Sea Rescue Institute's lifesaving work, as part of their winter solstice swim campaign.
Image: Supplied
This winter solstice, the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) is calling on South Africans of all ages to dive into something meaningful - an icy plunge to support lifesaving rescue work.
On Saturday, June 21, as the country marks the longest night of the year, the NSRI is inviting the public to brave the cold and take a dip in the sea, a dam, a tidal pool, a swimming pool, or even by pouring a bucket of ice water over their heads.
Whether you're taking part solo or with a team, your efforts will help raise funds for the NSRI’s life-saving operations.
According to the NSRI, its volunteers work year-round and are always ready to respond - even on the coldest day of the year.
"Funds raised through this winter plunge campaign support critical rescue services, survival swimming programmes, and water safety education across the country," the organisation said.
And while it might seem like just a light-hearted challenge, according to the NSRI, plunging into cold water can have health benefits too.
"Studies suggest it may help boost the immune system, improve circulation, and even reduce stress."
To take part, supporters can set up a fund-raising campaign through the NSRI’s page on the GivenGain platform by searching for "winter solstice swim 2025."
After registering, participants are encouraged to share their campaign with friends, family, and colleagues to gather support or challenge others to take the plunge as well.
All contributions, big or small, go toward funding equipment, training, and rescue operations at local stations.
The NSRI has a proud history of cold-water plunges, with volunteers leading by example each year. Last year, Jané Botha from Station 23 in Wilderness raised an impressive R47 500 through her solo effort.
Each year, teams of NSRI volunteers from our rescue bases brave the plunge to raise funds for their station.
There are plenty of spots to take the plunge across Cape Town and beyond.
Popular tidal pools for the plunge include Saunders Rock near Sea Point, Glencairn, St James, Soetwater, Kalk Bay, Camps Bay, Millers Point, and Maidens Cove.
Those taking part are reminded by the NSRI to put safety first.
"Avoid rough seas, don’t plunge alone, and always have someone nearby or bring a flotation device. It’s also important to know who to contact in case of an emergency," the NSRI said.
To find your closest NSRI station, visit the NSRI website’s base finder. And if you’re curious about how your donation can be tax-deductible or want tips on organising your group plunge, you can contact the NSRI’s community fundraising coordinator, Renee, at 021 434 4011 or renee@searescue.org.za.
Wrap yourself in something warm, grab your friends, and make a splash that saves lives.