Wave pools are a staple of swimming pool fun and have long captivated the public with their artificial yet exhilarating ocean-like experience. 

While many such attractions exist globally, the wave machine at the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) swimming pool holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. 

The BIC's wave pool, though not the largest or most technologically advanced, possessed a charm that cultivated a dedicated following. 

Its appeal rested in its ability to deliver a consistent, engaging experience that catered to a wide range of swimmers.

The wave machine at the BIC struck a perfect balance between excitement and accessibility. 

The waves were powerful enough to provide a genuine thrill, allowing for body surfing and playful bobbing, yet not so overwhelming as to be intimidating for less confident swimmers or younger children. 

Speaking on a Bournemouth Daily Echo Facebook post, Antonia Merrison said: “I can still hear it now 'Would all weak and non-swimmers please stay in the shallow end as the wave machine will be starting in 5 minutes..thank you’”

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Charlotte Pritchard replied: “I hear it too!!! Your post made me laugh out loud! God, I loved that place (even if I was on the weak side), that wave machine taught me how to survive!!!”

One Facebook member registered her disappointment of the closure by saying: “They never should have got rid of it. There isn't another public swimming pool in the town centre.”

“This needs bringing back. A very much needed pool for the town,” commented Amanda Harris.

Stephanie Jay Ingram shared her memory of the pool when she wrote: “Remember it like it was yesterday! My grandad would walk me from my mum’s along the cliff top and down the hill to swimming lessons every Saturday morning and sit on the plastic furniture watching then I would have 10 minutes of ‘free time’ after to have a few jumps in the deep end and a go in the wave machine.

While larger, more elaborate aquatic parks may exist, the BIC's wave machine continues to hold a special place in the hearts of many, proving that sometimes, the most cherished experiences are the ones that offer simple, consistent fun.