Registration is now open for the 27th Buzzards Bay Swim on Saturday, June 27 in New Bedford and Fairhaven. Those interested in swimming for a cause can register at savebuzzardsbay.org/swim. Early bird registration costs $15 through Friday, January 31.

The Buzzards Bay Swim welcomes swimmers of all abilities and fitness levels ages 11 and up. Hundreds of swimmers come out every year to complete a 1.2-mile point-to-point open water course from New Bedford’s South End past the iconic Butler Flats Lighthouse and New Bedford Hurricane Barrier to Fairhaven, cheered on by large crowds.

At the finish line at Fort Phoenix State Reservation in Fairhaven, swimmers and their guests are welcomed with a beach party featuring a live steel drum band, pancakes cooked to order, gourmet coffee, free massages, local craft beer and awards and prizes. First-time and beginner swimmers can swim with a personal kayak or paddleboard escort for added support.

Swimmers commit to raising a minimum of $150 each. Funds raised support the Coalition’s ongoing work to prevent pollution and protect water quality in the community. Last year, 347 swimmers raised $187,000 for clean water in Buzzards Bay. 

This year’s swim is expected to be bigger than ever, with a goal of reaching $200,000 for Bay conservation efforts.

The event is sponsored by BETA, Fiber Optic Center and YMCA Southcoast. Potential business sponsors should contact events@savebuzzardsbay.org.