Swimmer Encounters Dolphins on Historic Jersey to France Crossing

In a remarkable journey, a swimmer from Jersey experienced an unforgettable moment as he was accompanied by a pod of dolphins during his swim to France. Phil Gaudin, a member of the Jersey Long Distance Swimming Club (JLDSC), completed the 20.5-mile (33 km) crossing in just six hours and 56 minutes on May 23, marking the earliest recorded swim of the season for the club.

Gaudin's adventure began at La Coupe point under "excellent weather conditions," and shortly after entering the water, he was joined by the dolphins for approximately 30 minutes. "I could feel the power from their tails and sound from their blowholes, before seeing them glide in front and to the side of me - I was watching them watching me," he reflected on the surreal encounter.

However, the dolphins were not the only creatures he encountered during his swim. Gaudin noted the presence of an algal bloom due to rising sea temperatures, which has led to an increase in phytoplankton and a surge in blue jellyfish in the waters.

The JLDSC has seen an increase in interest for long-distance swims, with seven solo swimmers participating in 2025, and the club anticipates that 15 individuals will attempt the crossing this year.

This event highlights the growing trend of open water swimming and the unique experiences it can offer to participants.