THE DOLPHIN SWIM MARCH 2025
THE DOLPHIN SWIM
MARCH 2025
What is the Dolphin Swim?
The Dolphin Swim is a physically demanding and extraordinary relay challenge designed to raise essential funds for the conservation of Cambodia’s Critically Endangered Mekong dolphins and Endangered marine Irrawaddy dolphins. Along the way, the support team will document dolphin sightings and collect litter and old fishing nets that endanger the vulnerable population.
4
DAYS
120
KM
27.03.2025-31.03.2025
The
Dolphin Swim
Route
A dedicated team of swimmers (Khmer and international conservationists/scientists) will take on the treacherous currents of the Mekong River, covering 120 km from Stung Treng to Kratie—at the heart of the Mekong dolphins' shrinking habitat. With only a boat and kayaks for support, this daring expedition highlights the urgency of the mission and the swimmers' unwavering commitment. Along the way, the support team will document dolphin sightings and collect litter and old fishing nets that endanger the vulnerable population.
The
Challenges
To ensure the swimmers' safety as they tackle these challenges, a support team in kayaks will monitor the swim and step in when necessary.
Environmental Hazards:
The Mekong River, known for its murky, unpredictable waters and strong currents, makes navigation challenging and intensifies the physical demands on the swimmers.
Wildlife Interaction:
During the swim, swimmers may unintentionally disrupt the habitats of animals living in the river. Encounters with wildlife, including fish and potentially aggressive species, could also present risks.
Distance and Endurance:
The 120 km swim demands extensive training and endurance. Prolonged hours in the water can lead to fatigue and, under challenging conditions, even hypothermia.
Why should You support the Dolphin Swim?
The Irrawaddy dolphin (Orcaella brevirostris) population in the Mekong River is teetering on the edge of extinction, with fewer than 100 individuals remaining. Coastal Irrawaddy dolphins also remain at risk, maintaining their Endangered status globally. The greatest threat to their survival is fisheries bycatch, and immediate action is critical to implement life-saving bycatch reduction strategies before it’s too late.
By supporting the Dolphin Swim, you can make a direct impact in saving these iconic species. All funds raised will go towards:
Strengthening the Mekong River Guard Program, where dedicated riverguards tirelessly combat illegal fishing in the dolphins’ core habitat.
Advancing essential research into bycatch mitigation along Cambodia’s coast.
Facilitating collaboration between Cambodia’s marine and freshwater dolphin conservationists to foster a unified, nationwide approach to Irrawaddy dolphin protection.
Your donation, no matter the amount, will make a real difference in the fight to save Cambodia’s dolphins. The swim team is ready to push their limits for this cause—will you join them in safeguarding one of the world’s most endangered species?
*Donations from the US to the Dolphin Swim are tax-deductible under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
"As a researcher and conservationist, I have always been in love with nature, especially marine wildlife. Participating in a dolphin swim event makes me feel like I can contribute more to their conservation. The Irrawaddy dolphin is in danger and its population is decreasing day by day. I want to take this opportunity to raise awareness among people worldwide, as well as within Cambodia, to encourage everyone to take good care of the Irrawaddy dolphins for a sustainable future. I hope to see all of you in March 2025."
-Lokkaman El (Project Assistant at Khmer Ocean Life)