Is there a word that conveys an extreme distaste to the point nearing phobia?
Solution 1:
Consider loathe
to feel intense dislike, disgust, or hatred for; abhor; detest
If you need a noun, loathing.
Also
- abominate
- abhor
- execrate
Solution 2:
I think the word you need is 'aversion'. It is less severe than phobia, but it is bad enough that professionals offer 'aversion therapy' treatment.
Solution 3:
Swimming in fresh or seawater repulses me
would also fit
Origin
late Middle English: from Latin repuls- ‘driven back,’ from the verb repellere (see repel).