Project Overview
Wicklow Harbour has long been a cherished summer spot for sea swimmers, especially around the sheltered North Pier. To support this growing community of swimmers, Wicklow County Council originally installed a fixed swimming platform and a floating pontoon, fondly known by locals as “Wendy, as a mid-swim rest point in the harbour.
After many years of service, both structures had deteriorated and were no longer safe or usable. In response, Wicklow County Council issued two tenders for the design, supply, and installation of replacement platforms. Airfloat was proud to be selected as the successful contractor for both projects.
Challenge: Replacing Ageing Infrastructure in a Demanding Marine Environment
The project required replacing two distinct but equally important pieces of swimming infrastructure:
- A floating swimming platform, affixed to the North Pier, that would remain stable and secure throughout changing tides and sea conditions.
- A freestanding swim pontoon (“Wendy”), moored further out in the harbour, accessible to swimmers looking for a safe resting point during open water swims.
Each structure came with specific challenges:
- Durability: The new platform had to withstand Wicklow’s often harsh easterly winds and wave conditions.
- Safety: The design needed to support safe, easy access for swimmers of all ages and abilities.
- Tidal Adaptability: The platform affixed to the pier had to rise and fall with the tide while remaining structurally sound.
- Time Sensitivity: Delivery had to be completed in advance of the summer bathing season.
Solution: Innovative Pontoon Systems with Custom Engineering
Airfloat approached each installation with tailored design solutions:
“Wendy” – The Floating Swim Island
We supplied a square floating pontoon fitted with two high-quality swim ladders, anchored securely within the harbour using our unique ballast system. This system allowed the Council to fine-tune the pontoon’s height, ensuring swimmers could easily climb on and off. The installation was completed quickly and efficiently—well ahead of schedule.
Swimming Platform – Fixed to North Pier
This platform was the more complex of the two. Unlike the original steel structure, our pontoon-based solution had to:
- Span over two existing ladders on the pier
- Be securely attached while adapting to tidal changes
- Endure high-impact sea conditions
Our engineering team installed custom-fabricated I-beams and mounting hardware on the North Pier wall. These supported the pontoon via a flexible but robust connector system, enabling safe vertical movement with the tide. The structure provides excellent longevity, ease of access, and improved safety for swimmers.
Outcome: Delivered Ahead of Schedule, Built for the Future
Despite tight timelines and complex marine conditions, both swimming platforms were delivered and fully operational before the start of the bathing season. The result is a modern, low-maintenance swimming infrastructure that improves swimmer safety and enhances the summer experience for locals and visitors alike.
Why Airfloat?
✔️ Experience in marine-grade floating infrastructure
✔️ Custom solutions for tidal and fixed-point environments
✔️ Durable, weather-resistant materials
✔️ On-time, on-budget project delivery
Interested in building a swimming pontoon or marine platform?
Contact Airfloat today to discuss your project needs—we design and deliver tailored floating solutions for coastal, inland, and recreational applications.
