Open Water Swimming: Polish Athlete's Record 160km Journey

Most people seeking relief from August heat might enjoy a refreshing dip in the ocean, provided the water isn't too warm and jellyfish aren't present. But few would venture so far from shore that land disappears beyond the horizon.

That's precisely what Polish swimmer Bartłomiej Kubkowski did in August 2026, when he shattered the world record for open water swimming. The achievement came on his fifth attempt over the past four years, after four previous failures to complete the extraordinary challenge.

How did he do it?

The logistics of Kubkowski's feat were staggering: three days in the water with no islands or stopping points for rest, surrounded only by open sea.

The Polish swimmer, who became a viral sensation following his accomplishment, departed from Sweden's coast on a Friday and reached his final destination on Poland's shores after swimming 160 kilometers through the Baltic Sea.

A support vessel sailed alongside him carrying food and beverages, which he had to consume while treading water. The rules were strict: any physical contact with the boat would invalidate the attempt and disqualify the record.

The prophet Jonah in the fish's intestines (AI Illustration)

A Modern-Day Jonah

In total, Kubkowski spent just under three days in the Baltic Sea, less time than the biblical prophet Jonah spent in the belly of the great fish, which the Book of Jonah describes as three days and three nights. His extraordinary maritime journey lasted approximately fifty-six hours before he finally collapsed on the Polish beach, having succeeded where four previous attempts had failed.

The grueling swim served a charitable purpose beyond personal achievement: raising donations for children battling cancer. By the time the record was officially announced, more than 700,000 Polish zloty had been collected, with contributions continuing to pour in.

For anyone harboring a dream or vision, Kubkowski's perseverance offers powerful proof that determination can overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles.