©Paul McCambridge/MAC Visual Media

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…

FEBRUARY16th 16:56Ice Moon
The coldest temperatures in the water, we look forward to spring and the lengthening of days.
MARCH           18TH 07:18 Lenten Moon
Spring is beginning to peep its head above ground but despite the crocuses bright flowers the water is still very cold, frost and the chance of snow have not yet departed…
APRIL16th 07:55Pink Moon
The days are stretching but the water temperatures slow to rise…
MAY16TH 05:14Hare 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 12:51Strawberry Moon
Summer Solstice is upon us, a social time. The Celtic Druidic name is Alban Hefinmeaning ‘Light of the Shore’ – the seashore is a special place where the three realms of Earth, Sea and Sky meet.
July13th 19:38Thunder Moon
A time for thunderstorms and gathering herbs to dry for winter.
AUGUST   12th 02:36Hungry Ghosts Moon
To provide light for lost souls to find their way safely back into the afterlife people would light water lanterns and float them on lakes, rivers, and pools. Also known as the Sturgeon Moon a time of abundance and satisfaction.
SEPTEMBER  10th 10:59Harvest Moon
The well-known Harvest moon celebrates abundant times, although the air is getting colder the water still retains a little of summer.
OCTOBER9th 21:55Blood Moon
A time to prepare for winter, the Blood Moon or Hunters Moon scatters blue light so more red light reaches your eyes.
NOVEMBER 8th 11:02 Mourning Moon
The time to prepare for winter, for Pagans after a full year of accumulating it is time to let go of old unnecessary things and give yourself permission to mourn their passing.
DECEMBER8th 04:08Oak Moon
Also known as Moon before Yule or Oak Moon – a time for strength and preparation.

SAFE SWIMMING AT NIGHT – TIPS

©Paul McCambridge/MAC Visual Media

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!