Thinking about taking the plunge into open-water swimming?

Whether you’re preparing for our popular Montrose Beach Dook on Sunday 13 September, or simply curious about the challenge, connection and joy of swimming outdoors, this friendly session will help you take your next step with confidence.

Join swim coach Jacqui Cousins of Blue Sky Swim Studio in Laurencekirk for an informal after-hours gathering for local swimmers, dookers and anyone tempted by open water.

Drawing on her experience of swimming in the north-east’s lochs, rivers and sea, Jacqui will share practical advice on:

• Managing cold water.
• What to wear.
• Where to swim locally.
• Assessing conditions and risk before entering the water.
• Staying safe during your swim.
• How open-water coaching can build confidence.

There will be plenty of time for questions, conversation and meeting other local swimmers, followed by a sneak preview of trailers from swim-themed films screening at LandxSea Film Festival, 11–13 September 2026.

Whether you’re a seasoned dooker, a nervous first-timer or simply tempted to dip a toe in, this is the perfect warm-up for the festival weekend.

About the Speaker

Jacqui Cousins

Open-Water Swim Coach, Blue Sky Swim Studio

Jacqui is an experienced swim coach based in Laurencekirk, helping swimmers develop confidence, technique and safety awareness in open water. Through Blue Sky Swim Studio, she supports people at different stages of their swimming journey, from those taking their first outdoor dip to experienced swimmers looking to strengthen their skills.

Access & Questions

Continue the Adventure at LandxSea

See Jo in the Water, the story of sea swimmer Jo Bateman and her fight against sewage pollution off the Devon coast. The screening will be followed by a live Q&A with Jo.

Jo in the Water event details & tickets →

Join the Montrose Beach Dook

Then put some of Jacqui’s advice into practice at our friendly, all-ages Montrose Beach Dook on Sunday 13 September. Take a bracing dip in the North Sea with festival guests and fellow swimmers — or stay dry and cheer on the dookers from the dunes.

Montrose Beach Dook details and meeting point →