Nevis, West Indies (April 8, 2026) — The Nevis to St. Kitts Cross Channel Swim celebrated a major milestone with the successful staging of its 25th anniversary (Silver Jubilee), welcoming 500 swimmers from 41 countries to one of the Caribbean’s most iconic open-water events.
Participants traveled from as far as Australia, Austria, Antarctica, Guam, Guernsey, Japan, Polynesia, Switzerland, Spain, Scotland, and across the Caribbean, underscoring the event’s growing international appeal. Among the standout participants was Alice Dearing, former British Olympic marathon swimmer and global diversity advocate. As the first Black woman to represent Great Britain in Olympic swimming (2021) and co-founder of the Black Swimming Association, Dearing delivered an impressive performance, finishing in 1:13:17 and placing first in her age category (20–29).
The 2.5-mile swim, spanning from Oualie Beach in Nevis to Cockleshell Bay in St. Kitts, once again showcased the striking beauty of the Narrows while delivering a safe, seamless, and memorable experience for participants of all levels.
Top finishers included:
1st Place: Craig Munden (Bermuda) – 56:14
2nd Place: Michel Heijnen (Netherlands) – 1:00:14
3rd Place: Theo Estasse (France) – 1:01:01
Beyond competition, the event was defined by powerful and personal stories. A couple completed the swim just one week before their wedding, while the youngest participants, Greyson Burrell and Saulo Sahely (both age 12, St. Kitts and Nevis), swam alongside seasoned athletes. The oldest competitors, Skip Fear (80, St. Kitts and Nevis) and Richard Aikman (80, United States), demonstrated remarkable endurance and spirit.
As a main sponsor, the Nevis Tourism Authority (NTA) played a key role in supporting the event, which continues to drive meaningful economic impact through increased visitor arrivals, extended stays, and engagement with local businesses.
The Honorable Premier of Nevis stated, “The Nevis to St. Kitts Cross Channel Swim has matured into a bucket list event for swimmers and sports enthusiasts worldwide. As the only event of its kind in the Caribbean, it continues to attract hundreds of competitors annually. We extend a warm Nevisian welcome to all participants and invite them to experience the many delights of our island, the Queen of the Caribbean.”
Andia Ravariere, CEO of the Nevis Tourism Authority and Alice Dearing, former British Olympic marathon swimmer
Event organizer Jane Hansom added, “We are thrilled to see the continued growth of the Cross Channel Swim, not only in swimmer participation but also in the number of friends and family who travel to support and enjoy a vacation in St. Kitts and Nevis. With its reputation as the Caribbean’s premier bucket-list swim, we look forward to welcoming even more participants in the years ahead.”
Andia Ravariere, CEO of the Nevis Tourism Authority, noted, “The Cross Channel Swim is more than a sporting event—it is a celebration of human spirit, connection, and resilience. From elite athletes to deeply personal milestones, the stories that emerge from this experience are truly extraordinary. Born in Nevis, this event reflects the strength, soul, and authenticity of our island.”
The Nevis Tourism Authority congratulates the organizers on the successful execution of this landmark 25th edition and commends all participants for their achievement. The continued growth of the Cross Channel Swim reinforces its status as a signature event on Nevis’ annual calendar and a standout experience in Caribbean sport tourism.
With its unique blend of challenge, camaraderie, and natural beauty, the Nevis to St. Kitts Cross Channel Swim remains a must-do for open-water swimmers worldwide.
