Basel Rhine Swim
Go with the flow! The 31st official Rhine Swim will be held on 16 August 2011. The starting point is located on the Kleinbasel bank of the Rhine, at the level of Schaffhauserrheinweg 93. The amassed swimmers will take to the water at 6 p.m. Accompanied by water vessels and lifeguards, they will then swim downstream with the current. They will sweep past the glorious backdrop of Basel’s city centre, before climbing out of the river once again at the level of Leuengasse/Johanniter Bridge. The alternative date is 23 August 2011.
When swimming in the Rhine, it is important to remain on the Kleinbasel side of the Rhine at all times, and to pass the bridge pillars at a distance of several metres. Swimmers are recommended to wear bathing shoes, in order to prevent cuts and injuries. Inflatable mattresses and buoyancy aids are not permitted on the river.
More information about the Basel Rhine Swim
Accompanied Rhine Swim
The Sports Bureau of the Department of Education organises a guided Rhine Swim every Tuesday. This is aimed at good swimmers of all ages, and is free of charge. The assembly point is always Tuesday before 6 p.m. at the Solitude Park below the Tinguely Museum. The swimmers leave the Rhine before the Wettstein Bridge.
Participants must register by telephone on the day of the event between 9.30 a.m. and 3 p.m. under +41 (0)61 267 57 26. Swimmers are recommended to wear sturdy bathing shoes (surfing shoes, trekking sandals or light sports shoes). Clothes may be deposited at the starting point.
If the weather conditions are unsettled, information about whether the event will be going ahead can be found here from 9.30 a.m. on the day of the event.