The Bar Island Swim is a much-loved tradition at College of the Atlantic. It’s equal parts fun, challenging, exhilarating, and rewarding. And quite an exciting way to kick off the academic year.
A total of 138 students took part in the swim. With a crowd this large, use of the school pier or any boats was not an option, so swimmers gathered at the Bar Island sand bar for the start of the event.
Dozens of students, staff and faculty helped keep the swim a safe and enjoyable event. Boats, inflatables, kayaks and canoes circled the swimmers at all times, with crews ready to lend a hand or pull someone out of the water at a second’s notice.
It’s always an energetic scene at the dock, with cheering, big towels, and hot chocolate to greet the grinning swimmers.
Hot showers, a community cookout, and live music round out the evening following the swim. And then it’s off to classes the next day.