Behavior & Breeding

How fast can penguins swim?

Swimming speed varies by species, but most penguins cruise at 5 to 10 km/h. The gentoo penguin holds the record as the fastest swimmer, reaching burst speeds of up to 36 km/h (22 mph). Emperor penguins typically swim at about 6 to 9 km/h but can reach 14 km/h in short bursts. Penguins use a technique called porpoising — leaping out of the water in an arc — to breathe without slowing down, which also helps them escape predators. Their streamlined bodies, stiff flippers, and dense bones all contribute to their swimming efficiency.