Welcome to Cross Country Swimming, where we embrace the collaborative power of community and expertise during our small group swim trips. Central to our philosophy is a team of expert leaders representing Cross Country Swim. During a journey, one leader is assigned to provide both travel and physical guidance. These leaders, more than mere organisers, are passionate about fostering a sense of camaraderie among our adventurers. In addition to our dedicated trip leaders, sometimes, our swim trips offer the option of having a coach on board. We welcome the opportunity for groups to create their own trip to request a coach, catering to those seeking extra guidance or specialised training. At Cross Country Swimming, we believe in designing flexible and personalised swim adventures that cater to both individual preferences and group dynamics.
During your group trip with Cross Country Swimming, our dedicated leaders take on multifaceted responsibilities to ensure a well-rounded and enriching experience. Serving as itinerary navigators, they assist with travel logistics during the trip. In the water, their guidance is tailored to the group's skill level, leading swims that range from exploring swim trails to discovering coastal landscapes. Safety remains a top priority, with leaders implementing vigilant measures and protocols for a secure and enjoyable swim. Beyond logistics and safety, our leaders are instrumental in building a sense of community and fostering connections among participants and locals that extend beyond the trip. In essence, our leaders play a crucial role in setting the tone for each day's adventure, transforming your swim journey into a comprehensive and unforgettable swim trip experience.
When coaches join a group trip with Cross Country Swimming, whether arranged by request for custom swim adventures or brought along by groups planning their own, their expertise becomes a cornerstone of the journey. Operating in tandem with the leader, the coach's role is pivotal in refining swim skills, providing essential in-water assistance, and leading stretching or recuperation exercises to enhance participants' physical abilities and overall well-being. Beyond technical guidance, coaches collaborate closely with individuals to help them achieve personal fitness goals, tailoring their approach to foster progress and a sense of accomplishment. Their presence transforms the swim experience into a comprehensive and personalised journey, ensuring that every participant feels confident, secure, and empowered to make the most of their open-water adventure.
Meet Aaron, a travel industry veteran with 25 years of global experience in adventure design and leadership. As a pool and ocean master swimmer, coach, swim parent, and event operator, Aaron's expertise extends to various themes like swimming, running, trekking, kayaking, cycling, and cultural adventures. He focuses on genuine connections and sustainable travel.
Meet André, the dynamic entrepreneur who founded his business at 20, fueled by a passion for creation and exploration. André, a swimmer turned open water enthusiast, holds coaching certifications, licenses, and advanced degrees in management. With a mission to offer socially responsible swim experiences, he invites everyone to explore unique natural locations under his expert guidance.
Meet Dr Justin Crow, an Elite Strength and Conditioning Coach, physiotherapist, and High-Performance Manager with 15+ years of elite sports experience. Leading human performance at Melbourne Victory FC, Justin is committed to optimising environments for swimmers and travellers. With advanced degrees and certifications, he ensures they reach their peak potential in every adventure.
Meet Kaito, an experienced leader with diverse experiences in swimming and water activities. From junior swimming to lifeguarding, triathlons, and roles as a scuba instructor, Kaito guides marine activities with multiple licences, including kayak tours and SUP experiences. Kaito aims to convey the broader aspects of swimming, emphasising unique experiences beyond speed and has a passion for teaching ancient martial arts-based swimming methods in Japan.
Meet Lisa, a seasoned water enthusiast with over two decades of experience and expertise in open-water swim instruction, adventure guiding, and triathlon coaching. Her diverse water pursuits include water skiing, surfing, rock climbing, and scuba diving. Certified in Wilderness First Aid and surf life-saving, Lisa ensures a supportive, safe, and fun environment for an unforgettable aquatic experience.
Meet Archie, a seasoned travel professional and tour guide with a passion for continuous learning and ocean activities. Holding Emergency First Response (EFR) and International Life Guard certifications, Archie actively promotes sustainable tourism, contributing to the betterment of the Maldives and ensuring destinations remain enjoyable and accessible through responsible practices.
Meet Sam, a former national champion in 200 IM and 100 Butterfly. With a coaching legacy centred on teamwork, Sam's proudest achievements go beyond records to fostering lasting camaraderie. Armed with an advanced coaching license and experience in exotic locations, Sam combines fun with professionalism while leading trips and imparts elite techniques in an easy-going manner.
Meet Ricardo, he has lived in Galapagos since 1985. For 4 years he worked in an institution that promotes the regional development. He has a specialization in developing projects in conflicted areas in Israel; Shipping Business in NY; Auditory of the ISO 9001:2004 norm, Marine Security in Panamá; currently training in SuperYachts management; more certifications and a lot of administration courses, constantly training him to carry out this activity with professionalism.
Meet Yvonne, a Naturalist III guide (highest level) since 1984, having worked in almost all the tourism vessels in the islands. Multilingual, in German, English and Spanish.
Meet Brenton, a former Australian National Finalist turned swim technique specialist. He coach Powerpoints Master's swim club to five national championships and was been awarded Coach of the Year by Masters Swimming Australia. Brenton now runs swimming clinics and camps around the world helping adult swimmers become more efficient in the way they move in the water. He also hosts the #1 swimming podcast in the world (The Effortless Swimming podcast) and reaches millions of swimmers worldwide through his education videos on Youtube and Instagram.