Prince William appears to have changed his mind about one of his wife’s interests that he previously deemed ‘crazy’. In 2023, the Princess of Wales revealed her love for outdoor cold water swimming, stating that she prefers it when the water is colder.
During an interview on the podcast The Good, The Bad and The Rugby with Princess Anne and her son-in-law, Kate shared her passion for seeking out cold water even in dark and wet conditions, despite her husband’s initial disbelief.
Recent reports suggest that William may have been swayed by Kate’s enthusiasm, as he mentioned during a recent royal visit that he has started participating in cold water swimming activities. While strolling along the beach in Colwyn Bay during a trip to Wales, he met members of the Colwyn Bay Blue Tits, a group dedicated to cold water swimming.
William expressed his newfound enjoyment of outdoor cold water swimming, mentioning that he has taken dips in Scotland and feels invigorated afterward. He enthusiastically stated, “I love it. I do a lot of yelling and screaming when I get in.”
Kate also shared that she has a special robe for post-swim use. During an event in Wales with the Central Beacons Mountain Rescue Team, Kate mentioned seeing someone wearing a robe to keep warm in the rain and disclosed that she uses one for cold water swimming.
Cold water swimming is known to have significant mental health benefits and serves as a good physical exercise, as highlighted in an article by Harvard Public Health. Additionally, it was revealed in 2015 that Kate is a qualified scuba diver, having achieved a Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) Advanced Open Water Diver qualification, allowing her to dive up to 98 feet (30 meters) deep.
On the other hand, William has a hobby that concerns Kate – motorbike riding. Despite Kate expressing fear about William’s motorbike adventures during a visit to Dundee in 2015, William clarified during a trip to the Isle of Man TT motorcycle races that he had given up riding due to his responsibilities as a father of three.
The royal couple’s evolving interests and hobbies continue to intrigue the public, showcasing their diverse pursuits beyond their royal duties.