Active Southend-on-Thames is making a splash once again in 2026, bringing a range of exciting water-based activities to Southend’s coastline and helping more residents experience the health and wellbeing benefits of our local blue spaces.

Following another successful year of activities, the programme returns with a new schedule designed to encourage people of all backgrounds and abilities to get active on the water. Funded by Active Thames, the programme continues to focus on tackling inequalities that can prevent some communities from accessing opportunities on the water.

This year’s programme offers a variety of sessions aimed at building water confidence, supporting wellbeing and helping people connect with Southend’s coastal environment in a safe and welcoming way.

Activities planned for 2026 include:

Blue Therapy Active:

• 25 x Kayaking Sessions delivered (4 people per session, 13+ year olds)
• 5 x Cold Water Dip sessions delivered by Blue Therapy Active (20 people per session, 8+ year olds)
• 2 x Water Safety Workshops (20 people per session, suitable for all ages)

Session dates will be confirmed soon, but please get in touch, as we can arrange dates around your availability. Sessions will be delivered from Two Tree Island.

Gone for a Swim:

• 6 x YogaSwim sessions (12 people per session, 18+ year olds)

– Fri 24 April 0600
– Sun 26 April 1930
– Sun 24 May 1900
– Fri 10 July 2000
– Sat 25 July 0800
– Sat 22 Aug 0800

• 2 x Mulberry Walks & Sea Dips (10 people per session, 12+ year olds)

– Sat 1 Aug 0800
– Sun 2 Aug 0830

• 2 x Introduction to Sea Swimming sessions (10 people per session, 12+ year olds)

– Sun 26 May 0830
– Sat 25 July 0945

• 4 x Estuary-based Swimming & Water Safety Training sessions (12 people per session, 6-11 year olds)

– Sat 1 Aug 1300
– Sun 2 Aug 1400
– Sat 15 Aug 1300
– Sun 16 Aug 1400

Sessions will be delivered at either Thorpe Bay Beach or at Shoebury Common Beach. Book your place by clicking here

Beach School Explorers

Beach school safaris will be making a return thanks to funding from Southend City Council’s Small Culture Grant! Keep an eye on this page for the dates.

Essex Barbarians Rowing Club

• 5 x Club Coach Training Courses (all slots have been reserved)

These activities provide a great opportunity for people to try something new, improve their confidence around water and enjoy the many physical and mental health benefits of being active outdoors.

Sessions available for community groups

Charities, Community Interest Companies (CICs), community groups and faith groups are invited to reserve sessions for their members. These sessions are a fantastic way to support wellbeing, encourage physical activity and create new experiences for the communities you work with.

Spaces are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, so organisations interested in booking sessions are encouraged to get in touch early. If you’re interested in one session or more for your group, please email jlangstone@savs-southend.co.uk

Active Southend-on-Thames continues to showcase the incredible natural assets along our coastline while helping ensure that more people have the opportunity to enjoy them. More information on bookings for the public will be announced soon. 🌊