Peaks to Portland, A Swim to Benefit Kids

The Peaks to Portland Swim to Benefit Kids is one of the oldest open water swims in the world; since before World War II thousands have braved Maine’s waters to swim the 2.4 miles from Peaks Island to Portland’s East End Beach.

If you have any questions that are not answered on the event home page or within this section, please use the button above to submit questions via email and we will respond as promptly as possible!

A detailed event day document is available at this link. This document will be updated periodically and the most up-to-date version will always be available on this page.

Will the YMCA be offering training classes?

• The YMCA will offer training classes at each branch starting February 2. They will each be 4 week classes, twice a week. They will keep a running 4 week session right up to event day. Registration is open!

I see an option to add a Kayaker and their information during registration, is this required?

• Having a supporting kayaker is optional, but highly recommended! If you do have someone kayaking with you, it is imperative that they also register as a kayaker via the free signup option so they can read, understand, and agree to the waiver and get on our e-mail list for event communications as we get closer to event day.

Is there a minimum age requirement for the event?

• Yes, the minimum age for swimmers and kayakers is sixteen. All participants must be sixteen by the date of the event to be eligible to participate. Participants will confirm this via the registration process and waiver confirmation.

Is there a wetsuit policy?

• Wetsuits are allowed, but not required. Expected water temperatures for late July near Peaks Island is lower to mid-sixties. For this temperature range, a full wetsuit with 3/2mm thickness is recommended.

When and where is packet pickup?

• Location: YMCA of Southern Maine - Casco Bay Branch at 14 Old South Freeport Rd, Freeport, ME 04032
• Date: Friday, July 17, 2025
• Time: 4:30 - 6:30 PM
• We will try our hardest to make special accommodations for people traveling, please reach out to the contact email on this page if you need special consideration for packet pickup!

What is included in my event day packet?

• Your event day packet includes, but is not limited to: Event T-Shirt, Swim Cap, Event Day Instructions (ferry schedule, finalized event schedule, parking map, etc.), Ferry Ticket, Fundraising Prizes, Bag Tag

When does the event start?

• The event schedule is still being finalized, but swimmers should plan to be on Peaks Island ready to go around 7:30 AM. Please plan which ferry you will take out to Peaks Island accordingly! The one-way ticket provided in your event day packet can be used for any scheduled ferry.

What happens if weather, marine conditions, or safety concerns affect the event?

• The Peaks to Portland Swim is planned as a rain-or-shine event, but swimmer safety is always the top priority. Event officials may delay or cancel the swim due to unsafe conditions such as weather, water conditions, marine traffic, or wildlife activity (including sharks). Any changes will be communicated to participants as soon as possible. 

If the event is delayed, modified, or canceled, are registration fees or fundraising minimums waived?

• No. Registration fees are non-refundable, and fundraising minimums still apply even if the event is delayed or canceled. The Peaks to Portland Swim is a fundraising event benefiting the YMCA of Southern Maine, and funds raised directly support programs for kids and families regardless of event-day conditions.

Fundraising Minimum

Each swimmer is required to meet a minimum fundraising goal of $400 to participate in the Peaks to Portland Swim.

The $400 must be fundraised or paid directly by the swimmer. Fundraising is the swimmer’s responsibility; the event does not fundraise on behalf of participants.

Don’t let the number intimidate you. Fundraising is often easier than it sounds — for example, $40 from 10 friends or family members gets you there.

Why Fundraising Matters

The Peaks to Portland Swim is many things to many people — a personal challenge, a bucket-list open water swim, and a celebration of Casco Bay — but at its core, it is a critical fundraiser for the YMCA of Southern Maine.

Funds raised through Peaks to Portland directly support the YMCA’s mission to strengthen our community by ensuring access to programs and services for people of all ages, abilities, and incomes across Southern Maine.

Every swimmer plays a role in that impact.

What Happens If You Don’t Meet the Minimum

• If you fundraise $400 or more, you’re all set.

• If you fundraise less than $400, you are responsible for paying the remaining balance.

• For example, if you raise $300, you will owe $100 to meet the minimum.

• Any remaining balance must be paid by the day before the event.

• Swimmers who have not met the minimum (or paid the balance) will not be allowed to pick up their packet or participate.

The registration fee and fundraising minimum are separate. The registration fee covers event logistics; the fundraising minimum supports the YMCA of Southern Maine.

Fundraising Tips

Not a born fundraiser? That’s okay. Most swimmers aren’t — and they still succeed.

Last year, Peaks to Portland participants raised well beyond the minimum on average. Here are some simple ways to get started:

Get Started

• Set up your fundraising page. Keep it simple — the people landing on your page are already proud of you. Swimming across Casco Bay is a big deal.

• Add a photo. A photo of you training, swimming, or even the ocean works great.

• Set a goal higher than the minimum. $400 is the minimum, not the ceiling.

• Write a short personal note explaining what you’re doing, why you’re doing it, and how much you’d appreciate the support.

Ask Directly

• Share your fundraising page on social media.

• Send a personal text or email.

• Pick up the phone and call someone.

• People want to help — but you have to ask.

Employer Matching

• Some employers will match charitable donations.

• Ask friends and family to check with their HR departments.

Helpful Talking Points

• Peaks to Portland directly supports the YMCA of Southern Maine.

• Funds help ensure access to YMCA programs for people across Southern Maine, regardless of income.

• Your swim supports community health, youth development, and social responsibility.

Making waves together! While our Peaks to Portland is all about charity, let's keep the ocean a friendly place with these simple swimmer etiquette tips for a smooth and enjoyable journey for everyone.

Communicate Clearly: If you need assistance, a break, or are feeling unwell, communicate clearly and calmly to your kayaker.

Maintain Awareness: Be mindful of the other swimmers around you. Avoid swimming directly over or obstructing others.

Hold Your Line: Try to maintain a consistent course to avoid unnecessary zig-zagging that could impact your kayaker or other swimmers.

Minimize Wakes: Be aware that your swimming style creates a wake that can affect others. Try to swim smoothly.

No Drafting: Maintaining a reasonable distance helps prevent accidental collisions and ensures a safer swim for everyone.

Respect Personal Space at the Start: The start can be crowded. Be mindful of others and avoid unnecessary pushing or jostling.

Proper Gear Usage: Ensure your inflatable swim buoy (if using) is properly attached and doesn't impede other swimmers.

Leave No Trace: If you need to discard any energy gel wrappers or similar items (though it's best to give them to your kayaker), ensure you do so responsibly and do not litter the ocean.