STA - Certified Open Water Coach

Experience the joy, freedom and adventure of sea swimming

Hello, I’m Sam. I'm a qualified, insured Open Water Swim Coach with STA , and I am also a qualified Surf Life Saver with the SLSGB (Surf Life Saving Great Britain). You're in safe hands when you are in the water with me.

I have many years of coaching experience to draw upon in order to ensure you have a positive experience with me. All swims/coaching sessions are risk assessed with the appropriate insurance and safety equipment in place.

The sea has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I created Sea Swim Torquay to share the joy and adventure of sea swimming with others. My passion is to make sea swimming accessible and to help more people experience the calm, confidence and freedom of sea swimming in the beautiful waters in-and-around Torquay and the English Riviera.

Whether you’re a confident pool swimmer, or simply curious about open water swimming and you're looking for a safe introduction - I'm here to coach, support, inspire and encourage you.

Who it’s for:
- You can swim 200m in a pool and you'd like to transition into the sea
- You’re curious but unsure about how to swim safely in open water and you’d like to gain confidence and knowledge in a supportive environment
- You'd like to improve your stroke technique to enable you to swim faster, more efficiently, for longer and with more confidence
- You are looking to enter a speed/distance event and you want to give yourself the best chance

Whatever your goal I can help you to achieve it.

1:1 Coaching

focused, personal and flexible

1:2 Coaching

train with a friend or family member

Small Groups

supportive, social learning

What you'll learn

Every coaching session at Sea Swim Torquay is about building confidence, knowledge and enjoyment in the water. You’ll gain the essential skills to swim safely in the sea, while discovering how rewarding and calming open water swimming can be.

You'll learn:
- How to swim safely in the sea
- What to expect – tides, waves, currents, risks and how to manage them
- Confidence in new environments – from calm coves to open, choppy stretches
- What to wear, equipment to use, and how to stay comfortable
- Sea life you may encounter
- Stroke development and efficiency in open water

Sam at Sea Swim Torquay on a 1 to 1 Swim
A Group Photo of Sea Swim Torquay Swimmers

Sessions & Structure

I offer a variety of sessions for you to choose from.

1:1 coaching
This is a quality session. It is the perfect way to really focus on your personal goals whether it be developing technique for the more experienced swimmer, developing a new stroke or purely confidence building as a new sea swimmer. I would always recommend having a 1:1 for your first session regardless of your current ability. You’ll will get detailed feedback and tips to take away to practice.

Video feedback is included on this session. This is a great way to see what you are actually doing in the water. We will review the video post-swim to identify the good and the opportunity! These sessions cost £25 for 30 mins in the water.

1:2 sessions
These are similar to above, except that you will be sharing the time with a swim buddy. For these sessions to be effective you need to be of a similar ability and have similar goals for the session.

These cost £15 per person for 30 minutes in the water.

Before I take anyone in the sea it’s important to me to know who I am coaching, so I take a few minutes to understand what you are hoping to get out of the sessions - your goals, challenges and any fears you may have; check for any medical issues (for safety purposes); previous swimming experience and expectations; and chat through kit/equipment and sea safety of the beach we are at. 

Open group sessions (for 4 or more swimmers)
The sesessions are open to all, with a general swim theme determined by the group ability. Dates and times tbc. £10 per person for approx. 45 mins in the sea.

Private Group Session
If you would like to book a group session for yourself and some friends, please get in touch to discuss options.

Why Try Sea Swimming?

Sea swimming is so much more than just exercise – it’s an experience that lifts the mind, body and spirit. From boosting confidence and wellbeing to connecting with the natural beauty of Torbay, open water offers countless rewards that you can’t find in a pool.

- Experience the unique freedom and calm of the sea
- Boost physical and mental wellbeing
- Connect with nature
- Build confidence in a new environment
- Enjoy a new, rewarding hobby for life
- Spend time with like minded people and make new friends

About Sam - Founder of Sea Swim Torquay

About Me

I'm Sam, founder of Sea Swim Torquay.

I have spent my life in and around the sea – swimming in waves, jumping into rivers, body boarding, kayaking, paddle-boarding and exploring. For me, the sea isn’t just a place to swim, it’s a happy place.

The Agatha Christie Mile, swimming from Beacon Cove to Meadfoot sparked a passion for adventure swims. From then I went on to complete The Scilly Challenge in 2024 (15km swimming over 2 days linking the islands) and I’ve taken part in several long-distance swimming events both locally and across the UK.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do Sea Swimming Coaching sessions cost?
Session Costs
1:1 sessions*: £25.00 for 30 mins
1:2 sessions*: £15 per person for 30 mins
Group sessions**: £10 per person for 45 mins

*All 1:1’s and 1:2’s will include video feedback
**Group sessions need to be a minimum of 4 people (and will be maximum of 8 depending on ability of swimmers)

Do I need to be a strong swimmer to join?
Not at all, but you do need to be able to swim 200m (8 lengths of a 25m pool) in whatever stroke you like with no time limit. From here, we can work on your goals together. If you are concerned about ticking this box please drop me a message.
What equipment do I need?
A wetsuit (unless previously agreed), goggles, and a brightly coloured swim hat.  Towel, and warm clothes for afterwards.

I ask all my swimmers to wear a tow float - I can lend you one for the first couple of sessions.

Optional extras are other swim equipment such as fins but these won’t be needed on the first session and can be discussed as part of the review.
Is sea swimming safe?
Yes – when done with the right knowledge, preparation and supervision. All my sessions are fully risk-assessed. I am qualified coach and life saver, insured and first aid trained. I will keep you safe as well as show you how to start making informed decisions for yourself.
Can I book with a friend?
Yes. I offer sessions on a 1:1 and 1:2 basis. Open and Private Group sessions are also available. Many people find swimming with a friend makes the experience even more enjoyable and supportive.
Where do I leave my things?
Towels and clothing can be left on the beach side (unattended) but I take no responsibility for lost items and therefore I encourage you not to bring valuables. A tow float is a good place to store car keys.
Is it women-only?
No, everyone is welcome as long as you can meet the minimum swim requirement of 200m. Currently it is adults only though.

Let's Get Started!

If you’re ready to dip your toes (or dive right in!) Sea Swim Torquay is here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you’re curious about trying open water for the first time, or looking to build confidence and develop your skills, the best place to start is with a friendly chat. Every swimmer needs a coach and I'd love to be yours.