THE DIP INTO BLUE CHALLENGE

To kick off 2026, Blue Barrel Surf School is giving back to the charity, The RNLI with a daily sea dip throughout January. We’re raising money and proving that getting in the sea in winter isn’t as bad as you think - welcome to The Dip Into Blue Challenge.

A rescue boat with five crew members in yellow jackets and helmets speeding through the water.

SUPPORTING THE RNLI

The RNLI is a 24/7 lifesaving charity powered by volunteers, courage, and public support, and is essential to keeping Cornwall’s beaches safe. Their lifeboat crews and lifeguards protect millions of beachgoers across the UK and Ireland, having saved over 146,700 lives since 1824. Alongside rescue, they lead vital education and safety work to reduce risk around the coast and at sea.

A person in a red shirt labeled 'Surf Coach' and a person in a blue shirt with a surfboard in the ocean.

THE BENEFITS OF COLD WATER

Getting into cold water has proven physical and mental benefits, from boosting circulation and reducing inflammation to increasing energy and resilience. It stimulates the nervous system and releases endorphins, improving mood and lowering stress. It’s a natural way to beat the winter blues and feel more alive year-round.

A woman sitting on a surfboard on a sandy beach, smiling, while a surf coach in a red shirt stands nearby with a surfboard, both wearing matching blue and red shirts with the logo 'Blue Barrel Surf School'.

LEARN TO SURF THIS WINTER

Winter is one of the best times to learn to surf in Cornwall, with powerful Atlantic swells creating consistent, well-shaped waves. Fewer people in the water mean more waves, more feedback, and faster progression. Add dramatic coastal scenery and crisp conditions, and winter surfing delivers a truly unforgettable experience.