Polish swimmer completes historic 160km Baltic Sea crossing without touching support boat

Bartłomiej Kubkowski has become the first person in history to swim across the Baltic Sea without leaving the water or touching his support vessel. The 31-year-old athlete completed the approximately 160-kilometer route from Sweden to Poland in 55 hours.

“

For over two days, Kubkowski did not rest and never touched the accompanying vessel, despite strong waves, wind, and cold water.

Kubkowski began his journey from the Swedish village of Kaseberga on Friday and reached the Polish coast near the town of Dziwnów on Sunday evening. For over two days, he swam continuously, battling strong waves, wind, and frigid water temperatures. His support team provided him with food and drinks using long poles to avoid any contact with the boat.

During the second night of the swim, Kubkowski reportedly experienced hallucinations due to extreme fatigue. Despite these challenges, he persevered and successfully completed the swim, where he was greeted by a large crowd of supporters. This was Kubkowski's fifth attempt at the extreme challenge.

“

During the second night, he experienced hallucinations due to extreme exhaustion.

The Ultra Baltic Swim was organized not only for the sporting achievement but also for charitable purposes. The event successfully raised about 185,000 euros for the Cancer Fighters foundation, which supports the fight against cancer.

“

The Ultra Baltic Swim was organized not only for the sporting achievement but also for charitable purposes.