Buzzards Bay Swim Moves to Onset Due to Water Quality Concerns

For the second year in a row, Mother Nature has reshaped the course of the annual Buzzards Bay Swim, but this time, the event is forging ahead with a new location rather than face cancellation.

The Buzzards Bay Coalition announced that this Saturday’s 32nd Annual Buzzards Bay Swim will officially move from its traditional New Bedford/Fairhaven route to scenic Onset Bay due to forecasted rainfall and the risk of sewer overflow in New Bedford Harbor.

“We simply cannot send our swimmers into potentially contaminated water,” said Buzzards Bay Coalition President Mark Rasmussen in a message to participants. “Onset’s waters are among the cleanest in Buzzards Bay, and by holding the Swim there, we’re ensuring both safety and continuity.”

Why the Change?

With rain in the forecast, the Coalition activated its long-prepared contingency plan to protect swimmers from potential pollution triggered by stormwater runoff. The decision comes after last year’s cancellation and reflects the Coalition’s ongoing mission to promote safe, swimmable water across the region.

What to Expect in Onset

Swimmers will now dive into Onset Bay from Shell Point Beach, loop around Wickets Island, and finish at the historic Onset Bathhouse (now the Coalition’s Onset Bay Center). Despite the venue change, all the classic swim elements remain, including:

• Pancake breakfast & beer for participants
• Live music & fundraising prize pickup
• Awards ceremony for top swimmers and fundraisers
• Free shuttles between parking and event sites (note: kayaks must be dropped off in advance)

The Coalition worked closely with local officials, harbormasters, and Onset Bay regulars to build a solid backup plan designed to deliver a seamless and safe experience.

Logistics and Reminders

• Check-in and Warm-up: 5:30–6:55 AM
• Swim Start: Begins at 7:13 AM in waves
• Finish Line Celebration: 7:30–10:30 AM
• Awards Ceremony: 9:15 AM
• Shuttles will run from 5:25–11:00 AM.

Participants are reminded to check their email, confirm receipt of the location update, and review all logistical changes, especially regarding kayak drop-off, parking, and timing.

A Legacy of Clean Water

Since its humble beginning in 1994 with just 17 swimmers, the Buzzards Bay Swim has grown into a major fundraising event and awareness campaign for clean water. This year’s relocation exemplifies not only the irony, but the importance of the Coalition’s mission.

“You’ll be swimming in one of the Bay’s cleanest spots,” Rasmussen said. “And that’s exactly what we’re fighting for... every harbor and stream being as healthy as Onset.”

For more details and updated event info, visit savebuzzardsbay.org.