APRIL FOOLS! SWIMMING LANES INTRODUCED TO FACILITATE FREE CROSS-SOLENT CROSSINGS

Cross-Solent travel – without the need of expensive and unreliable ferries – has just become easier thanks to the launching of swimming lanes this month (April). We are all used to cycle paths on Isle of Wight roads. Now, swimming lanes have been introduced to enable Isle of Wight residents and tourists alike to travel to and from the mainland without unnecessary expense. Initially, the lanes will operate between Yarmouth and Lymington, Cowes and Southampton, and Ryde and Portsmouth. However, should the routes prove successful, further routes are envisaged between Wootton and Gosport and St Helens and Hayling Island. The lanes have been introduced due to increasing frustration with the lack of reliable passenger ferries and mounting costs for Isle of Wight residents and tourists. Previously, cross-Solent swimming has been discouraged due to the dangers of swimmers being struck by shipping, being drowned in rough weather or suffering the effects of hypothermia in cold winters. However, the new lanes aim to mitigate such risks. Well-lit buoys will warn ships exactly where to avoid Cross-Solent swimmers. It is strongly recommended that those making the journey wear fluorescent swimming caps that can easily be spotted by ships’ pilots. Floating rest stations have been provided every 500m with blankets and the possibility to purchase a hot drink in the event of the onset of hypothermia. The rest stations have also been equipped with emergency telephones should swimmers get into difficulties, with the assurance that those unable to complete their intended journey be picked up by the emergency services the following day. In response to criticism that the swimming lanes are unsuitable for the elderly, infirm and the very young (as well as non-swimmers), the possibility of providing rowing boats on selected Isle of Wight beaches, manned by fit volunteers, is currently under urgent consideration. APRIL FOOLS! Did you like our April Fools joke for 2024?