“Piloting improves swimming. Swimming improves piloting”
Dolphin Club ‘pilots’ use a variety of water craft – rowboats, kayaks, SUPs and motorized boats – to ensure the safety and success of longer swims
We encourage all boaters at the club to come out and join us on club swims. You’ll need to have at least done an orientation on the type of craft you intend to use. You can request training here. To pilot effectively also requires an understanding of how the currents and conditions in the bay affect moving throughout the bay is essential. You should have read through the Bay Safety Guide.
Be aware that some swims are tougher to pilot than others. If you’re uncertain if you have the skills necessary to pilot a longer swim, talk to the lead pilot or chief pilot in advance.
Training
We differentiate between ‘escorts’ and ‘pilots’ – Any member may be an escort. But those who have experience and demonstrated swim piloting skills may be considered ‘pilots’ – With enough experience, you can become a Lead Pilot and pilot swimmers in Club Resourced Independent Bay Swims (CRIBS). Certification may be done as part of piloting a swim under the supervision of the Chief Pilot, Boat Captain, or other designated senior pilot.
Before joining us to pilot a swim, please familiarize yourself with these piloting essentials: