Ostend’s annual New Year dip in North Sea attracts enthusiastic army of 4,200 swimmers

Getting ready to brave the cold water and turbulent waves of the North Sea was akin to a military operation at Ostend’s traditional New Year plunge on Saturday afternoon.

Some 4,200 swimmers, also known as polar bears, gathered at the annual rendezvous point on Drie Gapers beach.

After passing check-in – the experience required €8 pre-registration – they advanced to an area of sandy shoreline encircled by white tents.

It was then necessary to set up base camp; a safe place to discard thermal layers while kitting out in sea togs. For many of the foolhardy participants – frequently assembled in squads – it was an occasion to don fancy dress or national attire.

Loudspeakers hailed the troops for a mass warm-up as the winter air temperature hovered around 2°. Then on the stroke of 15.00, the signal went out for the amassed army of bathers to advance towards the coastline.

Assorted battle cries rang out as the mob moved forward and the front rows entered the choppy water. Several thousand spectators cheered them on from the sea wall.

The waves were a surprise element and some faltered as the churning brown water of the North Sea crashed down.

But once the 7° chill had been breached, a surprising numbing sensation set in. Some turned back, but many splashed around for a playful and immersive experience.

Afterwards, with feet resembling blocks of ice, the final retreat was followed by a brisk towel rubdown, shaking down of sand and enrobing in warm layers.

Participants, now proudly bearing their polar bear stripes, were rewarded by warming mugs of steaming hot chocolate, tomato soup and even a nip of local jenever.  

For Ostend mayor John Crombez, Saturday’s New Year's Plunge was another successful edition of the tradition staged by the Belgian resort since 1987. “It brings together Ostend residents and visitors for a fresh start to the year. Enjoying a great and testing moment by the sea. This is Ostend.” 

Celebrations continued in the evening with the postponed end-of-year firework display finally going ahead on the Groot Strand.

Photos: Ostend tourism ©Nick Decombel Fotografie