FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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Our Summer outdoor swim programme runs from 13th April until 21st September (Neon Night Swim).
Members and non-members are welcome, adults and children.
We offer 3 memberships, purchased online:- Gold , Bronze and Squid.
Gold
- Recommended if you're planning to swim 2+ times a week
Bronze / Squids
- Recommended if you plan to swim less than twice a week
*You can only pre-book swims if you're a member and this closes 24 hours before each swim.
Pay On Day Swimmers
If you miss pre-booking or are not a member you can simply attend a swim and 'pay-on-day'.
Multi book and save (members only)*
Buy 10 and only pay for 8
*The same member only can buy 10 swims on pre-booked dates only
You cannot buy 10 swims and share them with friends/other members. No transfers under any circumstances.
Safety*
Tow-floats are OPTIONAL but must be worn for all Under 16's, newbies and for people swimming on the 750m+ loops.
Bright swim caps only (black/dark cap allowed only if you have a tow-float)
*Exemptions can be pre-agreed with Team Leader Karen Quartermain
If you feel unwell please do not attend.
If you have any medical condition that requires medication such as Asthma, or Type 1 Diabetes, Heart condition please ensure you have your inhaler / insulin / hypo treatment on you. You can leave this in a water proof bag with your name on with staff. If you often require your inhaler whilst swimming, take this out on the courses with you (in your float or down your wetsuit)
Young People & Children
1 5's and Under
can swim on their own without a chaperone as long as they are competent/confident swimmers staying on the 400m loops.
7 years and Under
must swim with a responsible adult at all times.
The Swim Process:
The process is the same at Dock 9, Salford Quays & Boundary Water Park
On Arrival
Please be as ready as possible. There are limited changing facilities and small baggage store. Limit kit.
Changing
Dock 9
- Changing tent weather permitting / open air
Boundary
- Changing cabin/open air
Toilets
Dock 9 - Available in the Lowry Outlet Centre/ surrounding cafes.
Boundary Water Park - located in the cabin.
Parking
Boundary: Free at the venue on service road adjoining lake and side roads
Dock 9: Quayside Car Park (M50 3AH, Lowry Outlet, Paid).
Free - Uswim Unit (in return for marshal support at selected events)
Cyclists
Dock 9 - bring your own lock and lock your bike on the white railings in the bund swim area.
Boundary - use the provided racking in the swim area.
Swim Courses
Dock 9 - 250 / 500 / 750m and 1 km when water safety available
Boundary - 150 / 450/ 800m
We also have dipping areas for those less confident. Note the length of course open depends on temperature and staffing.
Wetsuit Hire
Available on a 'first come, first served' basis. Hire cost is Adults £10+£20 cash deposit, 7-15yrs £5+£15 deposit.
Essential swim kits such as bright swim caps, goggles, earplugs, tow-floats, body-glide are also available to purchase.
Water Safety & Water Quality
There will be a powerboat/ kayak for support at most sessions as well as first aid trained land crew. If you were to get into difficulty and required support the crew would assess this and support you to get to the water side (i.e. if suffering from cramp you would be supported to relax until it passes). The water at our venues is regularly quality-tested to meet strict EU Bathing Directives.
You, the swimmers:
As venue providers we can only do so much so it is up to you, as an individual, to make an informed decision about swimming. Do not put yourself and others at any risk if you are feeling unwell.
Open Water Coaching /Triathlon / 121 's / Group
Available to help you to swim the very best you can our experienced Coaches provide regular sessions throughout the Summer.
Finally if you do have any feedback about any aspect of Uswim please email sales@uswimopenwater.com