200 Years of Helgoland
My Swim Around Helgoland
On June 6, I had the privilege of swimming all the way around Helgoland.
The swim was part of the island’s 200th anniversary celebrations and covered approximately 11 kilometers in 3:09:49 through the North Sea, passing Helgoland’s iconic red cliffs, the famous Lange Anna and the island’s rugged coastline.
What makes this route special is not the distance itself, but the North Sea itself – with its tides, currents and temperatures.
I am grateful for the support of the island, all partners, volunteers, crew members and the many people who followed the swim both on-site and online.
Impressions
High-resolution images from the Helgoland Circumnavigation are available for media and press use here. Publication is permitted provided the respective photo credits are included. Credits can be found in each file name.
The North Sea Remains the Main Character
A few years ago, I swam from the German mainland to Helgoland.
During that swim, I experienced how powerful currents can keep you moving in place for hours despite your best efforts.
This circumnavigation once again demonstrated why the North Sea is one of the most fascinating and demanding bodies of water in Europe.
Out here, you never swim against the sea.
You learn to swim with it.
Tracking
Thank You, Helgoland
My sincere thanks go to the organisers of the 200th anniversary celebrations, all partners, supporters, crew members and everyone who helped make this swim possible.
See you soon, in and around the water.
André Wiersig