Meet our Guides
Meet the fantastic team of guides who bring your SwimTrek experience to life.
Hamish Newton
Swim History Before SwimTrek
I've been in the water for as long as I can remember. Swimming competitively in the pool and racing in Surf Life Saving carnivals and triathlons in my childhood. As a beach lifeguard, I'm in the ocean every shift, either swimming or out on a board. The water's my second home.
Most Memorable Swim Moment
Swimming at Rottnest Island, Western Australia. Crystal-clear water, white sand, and colourful marine life beneath me. It's one of those places that makes every stroke unforgettable.
Top Swimming Tip
Slow it down, soak it up. Open water swimming isn't just about distance or speed. It’s about enjoying the experience and the environment around you.
Interesting Fact About You
In 2023, I completed a 7,000km solo road trip following the Australian coastline line from Brisbane to Perth. I made it my mission to swim in every single coastal town I stopped in. Swimming in the Pacific, Southern, and Indian Oceans, all within the space of a couple of 2 weeks!
Poppy Morrison
Swim History Before SwimTrek
I started pool swimming in my early childhood, going to swimming lessons and competing in school comps. I moved from the pool to the ocean at the age of seven, when i started competing in swimming as a junior lifesaver (Nippers) in Victoria, Australia. This instilled in me a deep love of the ocean, and I have spent every summer since developing my ocean swimming skills and gaining lifesaving qualifications. I am now the Chief Instructor at my local surf club, and spend my time training young lifesavers in everything from Advanced Resuscitation Techniques and Bronze Medallions, to Inflatable Rescue Boat courses. I also love to swim the Pier to Pub, which is one of the largest open water swimming events in Australia. Although, rather than swimming it this year, I spent the day in a boat providing water safety for the event.
Most Memorable Swim
Seeing a turtle whilst free diving off a little island called Orpheus Island on the Great Barrier Reef.
Top Swimming Tip
Speed doesn’t always equal better swimming. It’s ok to take things slow, relax and enjoy being in the water!
Interesting Fact About you
I tried to teach my dog how to surf when she was a puppy… she got as far as standing on a boogie board in the bath tub.
Philip Smith
Swim History Before SwimTrek
I have been sea swimming for 30 years when I first moved to Cornwall. I have participated in numerous triathlons and swim runs mainly in and around the UK. I regularly swim in the sea, all year round whether for pleasure along the Cornish coastline, training during RNLI beach lifeguard days or rescuing bathers caught in rips!
Most Memorable Swim
Swimming in the sea in Indonesia just off Nusa Lembongan
Top Swimming Tip
Float to live. If ever you find yourself in difficulty float on your back, relax, conserve energy and signal for help.
Interesting Fact About You
I have swam with dolphins off the coast of the North coast of Cornwall.
Jaime Duarte
Swim History Before SwimTrek
I am a nature guide and marine biologist with over ten years of experience in Baja California Sur. I was born in Mexico City, and my first contact with water was in a swimming pool, but the ocean quickly captured my heart. I enjoy outdoor activities, as: camping, hiking, kayaking, bodyboarding, SUP and all activities that connect me with nature.
Most Memorable Swim Moment
The Gulf of California has been my greatest classroom, where I have witnessed amazing marine life encounters. These moments of wonder remind me of the importance of conservation and motivate me to create experiences that connect people with the ocean.
Top Swimming Tip
I thrive in the sea, swimming alongside marine life. Every adventure I lead combines safety, professionalism, and the warmth of Mexican hospitality. Being a man passionate about the sea allows me to inspire others, sharing the beauty and richness of the ocean with confidence and passion.
Interesting Fact
Once I get into the ocean it’s hard to get me out!
Rusty Steel
Swim History Before SwimTrek
I have been swimming for about 10 years - this is mainly with friends, we meet up 3-4 times a week and swim round the pier in Brighton. With my work I get to travel around the world a lot and try to ensure I get to swim regularly either in a pool or preferably in the sea. I also work with the Surf Life Saving club in Brighton working with the kids and adults there to build their confidence in the sea.
Most memorable swim moment
One of my most unforgettable experiences was swimming on the Great Barrier Reef in Cairns. Surrounded by crystal-clear water and vibrant coral gardens. It remains one of the best swims of my life.
Top swimming tip
Tuck your chin in while swimming (look down)
Interesting fact about me
I own some land in Portugal that i hope to build on and retire to
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