One of the greatest pleasures of outdoor swimming is the monthly Moonlit swim! More and more small (social distanced) groups are meeting up all around the island. Tow floats brightly lit from within give these monthly jaunts a party atmosphere – and are necessary to ensure that everyone can be safely counted in and out of the water!
So, by popular demand, here are 2022’s Full Moon dates:
*All times below are for Ireland and UK.*
JANUARY 17th 23:48 Wolf Moon
Named for the howling of wolves, hungry in this time of scarce food…
| FEBRUARY | 16th 16:56 | Ice Moon |
| MARCH | 18TH 07:18 | Lenten Moon |
| APRIL | 16th 07:55 | Pink Moon |
| MAY | 16TH 05:14 | Hare Moon |
A time of new life, Spring is truly here! Wildlife are protecting their young so we must be mindful of not invading their space…
| JUNE | 14th 12:51 | Strawberry Moon |
| July | 13th 19:38 | Thunder Moon |
| AUGUST | 12th 02:36 | Hungry Ghosts Moon |
| SEPTEMBER | 10th 10:59 | Harvest Moon |
| OCTOBER | 9th 21:55 | Blood Moon |
| NOVEMBER | 8th 11:02 | Mourning Moon |
| DECEMBER | 8th 04:08 | Oak Moon |
SAFE SWIMMING AT NIGHT – TIPS
Night swimming is a magical experience with only the moon and stars to light our way but with this comes additional risks, so please be safe;
Never swim alone – Swimming in pairs or small groups will still allow you to enjoy the stillness and peace but afford a safer environment.
Check your exit – It’s very easy to lose sight of your exit point so place a marker, fairy lights draped over your bag, a glow-stick or torch placed where you can see it, or where it’s appropriate a small fire is lovely to return to.
Swim parallel to shore – All too tempting to follow that elusive silver trail of moonlight across the water but be wary of venturing too far from shore, cold incapacitation can hit suddenly and can hit any swimmer.
Light up yourself and your tow-float – a small torch od glow-stick inside your float will create a bright glow, glow sticks tucked into goggle straps, or get away from single use by investing in a waterproof light to clip on.
Get out while you still want more – As we head into the beginning of the new year the water and air temperatures are plummeting, cut your swim time accordingly, you will enjoy so many more swims this way.
Organise your kit – When you’re cold and shivering the last thing you want is to be fumbling in the dark for your woolly hat etc, so set out your gear in the order that you like to get dressed to make it as quick and easy as possible.
Enjoy a warming cuppa with friends – Finish the experience beautifully.
Respect others – Some people want to have a quiet and personal swim, be sensitive to your fellows, respect their space and enjoy.
Stay Safe and Happy New Year Swimming to All!