Swimmers Enjoy the Seine in Paris for the First Time Since 1923
On Saturday, eager swimmers with yellow floaties tied around their waists gathered in three designated zones along the Seine River in central Paris. This marks the first time since 1923 that the city has allowed bathing in the river, following the example set by Olympic athletes a year ago.
Location and Accessibility
Near the Eiffel Tower or in front of the Île de la Cité, close to Notre-Dame Cathedral, both locals and tourists can now enjoy these free facilities within set hours until August 31, weather permitting. The capacity will range from 150 to 700 people depending on the location.
A Dream Realized
Ingrid, a 95-year-old Parisian wearing a turquoise swimsuit, expressed her joy: “I’m so happy! I’ve dreamt of swimming in the Seine for years.” Accompanied by her granddaughter, Ingrid was among the first to test the waters at Bercy, one of the three designated spots.
Climate Change Adaptation
Mayor Anne Hidalgo emphasized the importance of this initiative in adapting to climate change, as Paris recently experienced temperatures nearing 40°C due to an early European heatwave.
Water Quality and Safety Measures
The city invested over 1.4 billion euros to improve upstream water quality, including wastewater capture projects to prevent it from flowing into the Seine. However, during heavy rainfall, all water—both surface runoff and sewage—must be directed into the river.
This situation occurred last year during the Olympics, causing delays in scheduled river events due to unsuitable water conditions. A color-coded flag system informs swimmers about water volume and quality, analyzed through instant sensors and cultures.
Health and Safety
Regional prefect Marc Guillaume confirmed the “exceptional” water sanitation quality, with bacteria levels (E.coli and enterococci) far below the thresholds.
Despite these positive results, strong vigilance will be maintained. Swimmers must pass a swimming proficiency test due to risks like debris, strong currents, hypothermia, and river traffic.
Regulations and Future Plans
A regulation enforced in late June penalizes unauthorized swimming outside these zones. Paris, Europe’s leading riverside passenger port, will also intensify controls on boat drivers.
Future plans include additional swimming areas outside the capital as river decontamination efforts continue. Currently, four sites along the Seine’s main tributary, the Marne, are already open for swimming.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the significance of Paris reopening the Seine for swimming? This initiative adapts to climate change and allows Parisians to enjoy the river, following a successful example set during the Olympics.
- Who can use these new swimming zones? Both locals and tourists can access the facilities within set hours until August 31, with capacity limits ranging from 150 to 700 people.
- What measures are in place to ensure water quality and swimmer safety? The city invested heavily in upstream water quality, implemented a color-coded flag system, and enforces swimming proficiency tests due to inherent river risks.
- What are the future plans for swimming areas in Paris? Ongoing river decontamination efforts aim to establish more swimming zones outside the capital, with four sites already open along the Marne tributary.
