My Cook Islands Adventure: A Perfect Mix of Swimming, Exploration, and Island Life

When I signed up for an Ocean Swim Holidays adventure in the Cook Islands, I expected a week of beautiful swims, and it certainly delivered! From the moment I landed, greeted by the warm, tropical breeze, I knew I was in for something special.

Our base was a cozy bungalow on Aitutaki, where we were treated to the ultimate island experience. With the constant 25-knot trade winds keeping us cool, our days started early—perfect for an energizing beach run or a quick dip before breakfast. The local 5km run along the runway became my daily routine, sometimes followed by a dip in the sea, where the high salt content made us extra buoyant.

The real fun began when we jumped on the boat for the first swim. We were zipping across the reef at 35 knots, zigzagging through coral formations—an exhilarating start to what would be a week of adventure swims around the islands. Our swims varied from shallow, crystal-clear lagoons to deeper water with rolling 1-foot chop, giving us a taste of both calm and more challenging conditions. Even when the sea was a bit rough, the camaraderie kept spirits high.

One of my favorite moments was snorkelling near Honeymoon Island, surrounded by huge Giant Trevally fish that didn't seem to mind us being there at all. We also swam around giant clams—some over 100 years old—which was an incredible experience. The highlight of the week was swimming alongside whales, an absolutely surreal moment as these majestic creatures moved gracefully beneath us.

Our evenings were just as memorable, with group dinners and lively conversations over freshly caught tuna steaks, with local cats even joining in as they patiently waited for their fish dinner! We capped each day with stunning sunsets, the sound of the sea, and the soft glow of the island's nightlights.

By the time the week wrapped up, I had enjoyed not only amazing swims but also the company of like-minded adventurers, all while soaking in the natural beauty of this remote island paradise. It was an unforgettable mix of ocean swimming, adventure, and relaxation.

Whether you're looking to push yourself with challenging swims or simply enjoy the beauty of the islands, this trip offers something for everyone. With the perfect balance of swimming, exploration, and downtime, I’m already looking forward to signing up for next year’s trip with Steve and the crew. If you're passionate about ocean swimming and crave a tropical adventure, this could be the experience you're looking for!

Graham Roberts – 8 September 2024.