The First Sea Swim of the Season

There’s something about that first sea swim of the year that feels like a rite of passage, especially, when the spring air might be warming, but the sea is still decidedly cool. This week Gabriel and I mark the arrival of spring by plunging into the icy waters of the English Channel—wetsuits on, hearts full of excitement, and smiles that never fade, even as we shiver in the breeze.

The sun was shining, the sky was clear, and Bournemouth beach beckoned us with that unmistakable blend of anticipation and adventure.

Braving the Cold: The Excitement Begins

As we stood on the edge of the beach, looking out at the sparkling sea, Gabriel was practically buzzing with excitement. “Ready, Mum?” he asked, already half in his wetsuit. His enthusiasm always lifts my spirits, and even though I knew the water was going to be brisk, I couldn’t help but smile at the thought of getting in.

We suited up, zipping ourselves into our wetsuits like seasoned pros. The sunshine warmed our faces, but the breeze carried the coolness of the sea. It didn’t matter, though.

The First Splash: Icy, But Worth It

The moment our feet touched the water, Gabriel let out a laugh. “It’s cold!” he exclaimed, but his grin told me that he was ready to dive right in. The initial shock of the cold is always part of the fun—those first few steps, as the water inches up your legs and sends shivers down your spine. But once we were fully in, swimming and splashing around, the chill didn’t matter anymore.

We swam out, the cold water bracing but refreshing. The wetsuits kept us from freezing, but there was still that crisp bite in the air and water that reminded us just how early in the season it was. Gabriel, as usual, was unstoppable—laughing, and splashing me at every opportunity.

“Remember, get out while you’re still having fun,” I reminded him with a wink, “and before you turn blue with cold!”

He laughed at that, as he always does, but I could see he was having the time of his life. There’s something magical about swimming in the sea, especially when you know you’ve been brave enough to embrace the chill of those early-season waters.

The Magic of the Moment: Fun in the Waves

As we splashed, I found myself watching Gabriel with such pride. He’s always been adventurous, and seeing him run into the cold sea (quite literally) reminded me of his fearless spirit. Gabriel’s laughter filled the air as we played in the waves, a sound that never fails to make me feel utterly content.

We splashed around for what was probably closer to half an hour. Gabriel was tireless, challenging me to race him through the waves and seeing who could make the biggest splash. And of course, being a mum, I let him win more often than not!

Warm Clothes and Hot Chocolate

Eventually, we emerged from the sea, our hands and feet numb but our hearts full of joy. I always tell Gabriel to get out while he’s still having fun, and not to push it until the cold takes over completely. It’s a mantra we live by during our spring and autumn swims—leave the water before you’re shivering too much to enjoy it!

Back on the beach, we quickly changed out of our wetsuits, pulling on warm clothes and our trusty woolly hats. There’s something so comforting about bundling up after a cold swim, wrapping yourself in layers and feeling the warmth slowly return to your body. Gabriel was still grinning, his face flushed from the cold but full of satisfaction.

With warm jumpers on and hats pulled low over our ears, we sat down on the sand and drank hot chocolate. Gabriel’s face lit up as he cupped his hands around his mug, savouring the sweet warmth after the chilly sea.

“Best swim ever,” he said between sips, his eyes gleaming.

I couldn’t help but agree. The combination of cold sea air, the rush of swimming, and the coziness of a post-swim hot chocolate is something special—a moment of pure joy and connection that we’ll both remember.

A Tradition That Never Gets Old

As we sat there on the beach, watching the waves roll in and out, I felt an overwhelming sense of peace. These early-season swims are become a tradition for me, which I love sharing with Gabriel, a reminder that no matter how cold or daunting something might seem at first, the rewards are always worth it. There’s nothing like the feeling of accomplishment that comes from diving into a chilly sea and coming out the other side, laughing and warmed by the fun you’ve had.

For Gabriel, it’s an adventure—a chance to test his limits, challenge himself, and have a blast doing it. For me, it’s a way to bond with him, to share in the joy of the moment, and to create memories that will last long after the cold water has faded from our minds.

Final Thoughts: Embracing the Cool Adventures

The first sea swim of the season isn’t just about braving the cold—it’s about embracing the moment, the thrill of doing something that challenges you, and the simple pleasure of being together. Gabriel and I will always treasure these swims, not just for the fun we have in the water but for the post-swim warmth, the laughter, and the sense of accomplishment that comes with every dip.

And, of course, the hot chocolate.

So, if you’re ever tempted to dive into the sea on a sunny, early-spring day, I say go for it. Bundle up in your wetsuit, embrace the cold, and get ready for a refreshingly good time. Just remember to get out before you turn blue—and always have a warm woolly hat and a hot chocolate waiting for you on the beach!