It all began, as most great ideas do, with a beer.
Around 16 years ago, as the sun dramatically set over the Gulf of Thailand, a group of Divemasters and Instructors sat at a local bar. When they weren’t underwater, they did what they did best—telling outrageous stories and enjoying cold beers. These were the sort of people who could make a three-minute safety stop sound like an epic journey. Naturally, the conversation drifted toward sharks.
Dan Bolton, holding his bottle of Tiger beer like a man cradling a precious woodland creature, vaguely remembered a documentary called Sharkwater, directed by Rob Stewart. Unfortunately, the finer details had long been drowned in Tiger beer, and Dan’s memory was about as useful as a dive computer in a microwave.
Lara Roberts, whose passion for sharks matched her love for gin, slurred, “Ooh, I love sharks,” before returning to her oversized cocktail.
Enter Big Blue Tech Canada, whose name, despite suggesting otherwise, didn’t involve a country or a multinational corporation, but rather a man of considerable size and even more considerable optimism. Canada began sharing his own aquatic anecdotes—none of which were particularly relevant but thoroughly entertaining nonetheless.
The conversation might have ended there, another night of inebriated banter, had it not been for Jim Donaldson. Jim, a man who could turn nonsense into productivity, steered the group back to reality. He reminded everyone that, as divers and ambassadors of the underwater world, they had a responsibility to take action against the grim reality of shark finning.
And so, with a moment of either brilliance or drunken inspiration, Jim proposed an event—a competitive swim around the islands of Nang Yuan to raise awareness and funds for shark conservation.
Dan agreed instantly and wandered off, perhaps to reflect on Jim’s idea or admire his own reflection. Lara, unwavering in her love for sharks, repeated her mantra, “Ooh, I love sharks,” while Canada, agreeing with all the enthusiasm of a man who doesn’t understand physics, made his own endorsement in the form of a fart.
Thus, in a moment historians might struggle to take seriously, Swim for Sharks was born.
Jim enlisted the help of Dr. Eco Jen from Big Blue Conservation and Gary Hawkes of SSI Thailand and Sharkskin, securing sponsorships, rallying the island’s support, and creating what would become Koh Tao’s most legendary event: a 3.4-kilometer swim around Koh Nang Yuan. This event, which we now know as Swim for Sharks, was born out of a few beers, a love for sharks, and a shared commitment to their conservation.
The Swim for Sharks Event: A Dive into Conservation
Over the years, Swim for Sharks has become an iconic event, drawing participants from across the globe. From a former Canadian Commonwealth Games competitor to a Kiwi triathlete, and even a Russian KGB agent whose identity remains a mystery, the event has welcomed an eclectic mix of competitors.
But perhaps the most remarkable story comes from Nick Bufton, an underdog who, after years of training, swam 23 kilometers around Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan in just 9 hours. Fueled by stubbornness and existential dread, Nick cemented his place in Swim for Sharks lore.
This year, the madness resumes on Saturday, May 17th at Big Blue Diving. If you value your self-preservation (and your sanity), you’ll want to arrive well before 10 AM to register for your chance at winning the much-coveted Swim for Sharks Trophy—handcrafted by local artisan Rob Cooper, likely made from the tears of past participants. The day will begin with an informative Shark Presentation by Shark Guardians, followed by a boat trip to Koh Nang Yuan, where the swim itself will take place for both competitive and fun swimmers.
Why You Should Sign Up
This isn’t just about swimming—it’s about shark conservation. Shark Guardian, a UK-based charity, is dedicated to securing the future of sharks and marine biodiversity. Their global campaigns focus on conservation, education, and research, with the aim of creating oceans teeming with life, not plastic.
Through their efforts, Shark Guardian promotes a world where sharks thrive in balanced ecosystems rather than being slaughtered for soup. They stand for inclusion, collaboration, authenticity, and—most importantly—passion. This charity is fighting not just for sharks, but for the oceans and a healthier planet.
Where Your Money Goes
Funds raised from Swim for Sharks support Shark Guardian’s vital work around the world. Whether through raising awareness, conducting research, or funding conservation efforts, your participation helps ensure a future where sharks continue to thrive in our oceans.
How to Sign Up for Swim for Sharks
You can register for Swim for Sharks here: Registration Form.
Registration Options:
Option 1: £20 (930 Thai Baht) — Includes swim registration, a Swim for Sharks T-shirt, and a £4 donation to Shark Guardian, making you a better person.
Option 2: £16 (750 Thai Baht) — Includes swim registration and a Swim for Sharks T-shirt, but with slightly less righteousness.
Option 3: £12 (560 Thai Baht) — Registration only, for those who prefer a minimalist approach to heroism.
Kids Swim for Sharks: £7 (300 Thai Baht per child) — Because nothing says “responsible parenting” like giving your kids the opportunity to swim for sharks.
Final Thoughts
The current Swim for Sharks record stands at 45 minutes. If you think you can beat that, congratulations on your boundless confidence. If not, at least you’ll have a good excuse to drink afterward and celebrate the cause.
See you in the water—probably.
