Summer crossing February 6, 2027

Sold Out

No further crossings at this stage.

LOGISTICS

On the day of your crossing, you will be taken from the Queenscliff Harbour to the start (deep water near Point Nepean) by boat. From there you will swim to Point Lonsdale, aiming for the front beach near the shops. All other details will be sent to you closer to the time of your swim.

HOW TO PREPARE

Swimming across “The Rip” is different to other swims. You must be well prepared both physically and mentally for this magnificane stretch of water. You should train consistently leading up to your Rip Swim and be ready for about a 4km swim in rough seas to give yourself the best chance of success.

WETSUITS

You can wear a wetsuit during your crossing if you are worried about being cold. The temperature is likely to be about 17/18 degrees in summer.

No wetsuits are allowed on our winter crossing, where the water will be about 11/12 degrees. This is to honour the original crossing by Douglas Mew in 1971 and to give swimmers an additional challenge.

TIDES EXPLAINED

The tide changes every 6 hours. Given the narrow entrance to Port Phillip, the movement of water both in and out can be very strong. Swimming The Rip is not possible on strong tides and is also very dangerous. The water can flow up to 15km per hour. We work with the tide to give you the greatest chance of success. We understand the tides well and have looked carefully at the data. As always, mother nature plays her part, but we can minimise the surprises she has for us!