The Navy SEAL Foundation New York City SEAL Swim is a multi-sport open-water swimming event held in New York City, NY that brings together Former SEALs, Veterans, Police Officers, Fire Fighters, and First Responders from across the country.

The event starts at the Empty Sky Memorial in Liberty State Park in New Jersey and ends at the World Trade Center in Manhattan, NYC.  Participants will enter the Hudson River at Liberty State Park, NJ, and swim to the Statue of Liberty, where they do 100 honor pushups and 22 pull-ups for our nation’s freedoms and civil liberties. Participants then swim from the Statue of Liberty to Ellis Island, where they do 100 honor pushups and 22 pull-ups for our nation’s diversity and all those who came to our nation seeking a better life. Participants then swim across the Hudson River to Battery Park, Manhattan, NYC, where they grab American Flags and run to the World Trade Center in Manhattan, NYC.  At the World Trade Center, participants do 100 honor pushups and 22 pull-ups to honor all those who lost their lives on 9/11, Extortion 17, and all Americans who put it on the line for our nation.

Please consider joining us in sharing an epic adventure and sending a positive patriotic message of unity!

Is this swim only for SEALs?
No. This swim is open to all. The swim is made up of Active Duty, Reservist, Veteran, First Responders, Patriots and Civilians. However, there are four ways non-SEALs can be green lighted for this event by contacting and receiving approval from Event Director Bill Brown. Email Bill at wibrown@mccarter.com

Ways to be greenlighted for swim:
1. Non-SEAL swimmer successfully completed a previous open water swim 3 miles or greater in distance within the last TWO years and emails proof of completion. 2. Non-SEAL swimmer has successfully completed military training that shows they are competent in the water and he/she emails proof of completion of training. 3. Another SEAL confirms they have personally swam with the non-SEAL and he/she is competent in the water. 4. The Non-SEAL passes 1 of 2 screening swim tests in Long Branch, NJ.

Qualifying Training Swim
Both training swims administered by Event Director Bill Brown will be administered SATURDAY JUNE 3, 2023 and SATURDAY JULY 8, 2023 in Long Beach, NJ. Please contact directly for further information.

Do I need to provide documentation for open water swim experience?
Swimmers will be evaluated on an individual basis who have minimal open water swim experience. Documentation may include but is not limited too, previous open water swim events or races, proof of swim club, letter from coach/trainer, etc. Swimmers may also have a SEAL vouch for their open water swimming ability. For questions about participation and qualification, contact Event Director Bill Brown at wibrown@mccarter.com

Can I use fins, buoys, etc.?
Fins are MANDATORY unless you can email proof to Bill Brown (wibrown@mccarter.com) that you are an elite swimmer (Olympian Swimmer, World Class Swimmer, Division I College Swimmer). Swimmers will be given a personal inflatable swim buoy to wear. This is a requirement for all swimmers, SEAL, collegiate, distance, Olympian etc. It is a lifesaving device and visible marker for support boats to see you in the water. Please reach out in advance with any questions, comments or concerns.

Is a wetsuit required?
No. Shorts will be provided by Sunga Life for swimmers to wear. We ask that swimmers wear the issued shorts. Jammers, tri-shorts, etc. are allowed underneath. Swimmers can wear a wetsuit top or rashguard if desired. Water temperature will be in the high 70’s in August, so plan accordingly.

Will I be removed from the swim if I do not meet the fundraising “ask” requirement of $2,000
Non-SEALs, Veterans, Police Officers and Firefighters who fail to show motivation to fundraise for the swim will be contacted directly. We understand times are unique but we require your best effort to help support the mission and our goal. Removal of your spot is at our discretion and will be given to someone who can meet the minimum fundraising requirement. This will be a massive event and a waitlist of eager and motivated swimmers would gladly appreciate the opportunity to participate.

Is this donation tax deductible?
Navy SEAL Foundation is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization and your donation is tax-deductible within the guidelines of U.S. law. To claim a donation as a deduction on your U.S. taxes, please keep your email donation receipt as your official record. We’ll send it to you upon successful completion of your donation.

Will the swim be postponed or cancelled due to inclement weather?
We will work with the Port Authority, NJSP, FDNY, NYPD, PAPD and USCG and governing authorities to ensure a safe and successful event. Please note this is a Navy SEAL Swim and SEALs swim in the rain and on cloudy and cold days. In the event of severe weather (lightening or very large swells) the contingency date for the swim is Sunday, August 20, 2023.

Is there parking on site?
The answer is yes but it is very limited and reserved. Our parking staff will direct people to park appropriately. Parking maps and layout will be available soon.

Is bus transportation provided?
There will be bus transportation to the Ferry Terminal following opening ceremonies. There will also be bus transportation from the site of the After Party in NYC back to the parking lot at Liberty State Park, NJ following the conclusion of festivities. On swim day the Former Navy SEALs and swimmers will be transported from Hudson Hyatt Regency Jersey City to Liberty State Park, NJ by NJSP Escort and buses. Parking maps and layout will be available soon.

Hotel Accommodations
More information to follow.