A Media launch was held at Nevis’ Malcolm Guishard Recreational Park at Pinneys for the hosting of the 2026 Nevis to St. Kitts Cross Channel Swim on Friday, January 9^th, 2026. 

 

At the Head-table were CEO of the Nevis Tourism Authority (NTA), Andia Ravariere , Premier of Nevis and Minister of Tourism, Dr. Hon. Mark Brantley, Cross Channel Swim Organizer, Jane Hanson, CEO of St. Kitts Tourism Authority, Kelly Fontenelle and NTA Director of Sales and Marketing, Pheon Jones who was also the Master of Ceremony. 

 

During her presentation, Ms. Ravariere  said the event stands as the Iconic open water event of the region. She lamented on the natural advantage for open water swimming, such as: the calm, clear and warm waters between St. Kitts and Nevis which offers ideal conditions for Open Water Swimming and added that very few destinations in the world can boast of such a setting.

She further spoke on the importance of the event as it introduces economic value and highlights St. Kitts and Nevis as an excellent Tourism product:

 

 

The event creates a destination that is not only resilient and sustainable but globally iconic and speaks volume for our tourism,” the words of Kelly Fontenelle. The St. Kitts Tourism CEO says the balance encourages longer stays, simplifies travel logistics and ensures that the heartbeat of tourism is felt strongly on both shores.

  

Nevis’ Minister of Tourism, Mark Brantley, added that the swimming event has opened an interest to the island, especially to young people, who are now representing the federation at overseas events. Additionally, it educates and teaches the importance of safety, health and wellness. It is not just about the day of the swim, but it’s also about the lead-up to the day and the fact that persons can structure a vacation-experience around the event.

Meanwhile, in making her contribution, Cross Channel Swim Organizer, Jane Hanson later revealed that international swimmers are travelling with their family and friends, which strongly boosts the economy. There were over 100 swimmers who took part in 2023, it grew to 300 in 2024 and in 2025, 500. Here’s Ms. Hanson:

 

She continued:

 

 

Jane Hanson.

 

International British Olympian and Former Marathon Swimmer, Alice Dearing will be a part of this year’s event.

According to many, the 2.5 miles swim from Oualie Beach, Nevis to Cockle Shell Bay, St. Kitts is a tremendous experience. Special mention was also given to Mr. Winston Crooke who stood at the helm of the cross-channel swim for over 20 years.

 

This year’s meet will be held on Saturday, March 28th, 2026. Online tickets are currently on sale. Interested persons can purchase their tickets online at www.nevistostkittscrosschannelswim.com.