Get ready, Swansea! The much-loved Mumbles Raft Race is back this Saturday, August 16th, and it’s set to be an absolute blast. Picture this: the stunning Mumbles shoreline filled with quirky, creative, and downright hilarious homemade rafts, all competing for glory—and it’s all in the name of charity. This family-friendly event brings together teams from all over Swansea and Mumbles, including friends, neighbours, and workmates, paddling their hearts out and raising funds for our local RNLI lifeboat station.
Last year, the event raised an impressive £10,000 for the RNLI, and the stakes are even higher this year. The recently completed Mumbles Promenade offers fantastic viewing points, perfect for families wanting a prime spot to catch the action.
Tony Bowen, an RNLI crew member and event organiser, shares his excitement: “It’s amazing to see the community come together, have fun dressing up, and support such an essential cause. Every penny goes to saving lives at sea, and we can’t wait to see the wild and wonderful raft creations this year!”
Whether you’re part of a team, cheering from the sidelines, or enjoying a day out, the Mumbles Raft Race is all about community spirit and goodwill. In previous years, we’ve seen some wildly imaginative rafts—everything from pirate ships to ‘The Titanic 2013’—sailing off Knab Rock. While some might not make it past the start line, it’s all part of the fun!
Marking its 38th year, this year’s race will kick off at 12pm at Knab Rock. Most rafts take about 45 minutes to complete the course, though some might sprint to the finish in just 20 minutes. Hundreds of spectators are expected to gather along the seafront, so arrive early to grab the best spot. While watching is free, donations to support the RNLI are encouraged.
Let’s make some waves and see if we can top last year’s fundraising efforts. See you there for a fun-filled day by the bay! 🌊🚣♂️