NSRI urges South Africans to dive in this winter solstice
The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) is encouraging ocean enthusiasts to take a plunge for a good cause this winter solstice, Saturday, 21 June.
The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) is calling on ocean lovers and brave souls to take a chilly dip for a good cause this winter solstice, Saturday, 21 June—the longest night of the year.
Through the Winter Solstice Plunge, the NSRI encourages South Africans to dive into icy waters, whether it’s the ocean, a tidal pool, a dam, a swimming pool, or even an ice bucket, to help raise essential funds for its lifesaving missions and water safety education.
‘Embrace the spirit’
“NSRI volunteers are on duty 365 days a year, including the coldest, darkest ones,” the organisation said.
“Now, we’re asking the public to embrace the spirit of our volunteers and take the plunge in solidarity.”
Participants can set up personal fundraising campaigns on GivenGain under the ‘Winter Solstice Swim 2025’ page and invite others to join or contribute.
Last year, Wilderness volunteer Jané Botha raised R47,500 on her own, a target the NSRI aims to surpass in 2025.
Safety is key, and the NSRI reminds participants to:
- Never swim alone
- Avoid rough seas
- Always use a flotation device
- Know who to call in an emergency
To get started:
- Pick a date, time, and location for your plunge
- Visit GivenGain and search “Winter Solstice Swim 2025”
- Click ‘Start Fundraising’
- Share your plunge journey far and wide
Whether you’re in it for the adrenaline, the health perks, or to support lifesaving work, every rand raised helps save lives.
For more info, visit the NSRI Community Fundraising page, or contact (021) 434 4011 / renee@searescue.org.za