Every summer, thousands of swimmers, spectators and support crews line the coast for one of Western Australia’s most iconic sporting events: the Rottnest Channel Swim. It’s more than a race – it’s a celebration of endurance, teamwork and community spirit, set against the stunning backdrop of Perth’s coastline.
Whether you’re swimming, crewing, or watching from the beach, here’s what to expect from the next big event on Saturday, 21 February 2026.
A Legendary Open Water Challenge
The Rottnest Channel Swim covers a distance of 19.7 kilometres, stretching from Cottesloe Beach to Rottnest Island across the open waters of Gage Roads. It’s widely regarded as one of the world’s premier open water swims, attracting elite athletes, amateur swimmers and international visitors alike.
Participants can enter as:
- Solo swimmers
- Duos (teams of two)
- Teams (up to four swimmers, rotating)
All swimmers must be accompanied by a support boat for safety and navigation.
Key Dates and How to Enter
- Event date: Saturday, 21 February 2026
- Entries open: November 2025 (check the official website for exact dates)
- Eligibility: Entrants must complete a qualifying swim beforehand. Solo swimmers must be 14+.
If you’re planning to enter or support a team, start early. Demand is high, and entry slots fill quickly. You’ll also need to secure a support boat, paddler and skipper well in advance.
More details: rottnestchannelswim.com.au
A Huge Day on the Water
The swim isn’t just about endurance – it’s a major community event. On the day, you’ll see hundreds of vessels on the water, including support boats, water safety craft and event officials. Cottesloe Beach fills with swimmers and spectators in the early morning light, and Rottnest Island buzzes with activity as swimmers arrive at the finish line throughout the day.
Finishers are welcomed ashore at Thomson Bay, where spectators cheer from the beach and volunteers hand out medals. It’s a true celebration of achievement, no matter how long the swim takes.
Safety First: What Boaties Need to Know
If you’re skippering a support boat, there are strict guidelines to follow for safety and navigation. All skippers must attend a compulsory briefing, and vessels must meet certain safety standards. The event area is heavily patrolled by marine rescue and safety officials, and compliance is taken seriously.
Whether you’re a first-time skipper or a returning crew, ensure your vessel is fully insured and compliant. If you’re unsure what cover you need, speak to a local broker like Coast Insurance for advice on marine cover during events.
Not Swimming? Here’s How to Get Involved
You don’t have to get wet to be part of the action:
- Volunteer as a race marshal or event crew
- Support a swimmer on a boat or kayak
- Join spectators on Rottnest Island and cheer at the finish line
It’s a fantastic way to be part of the WA marine community and one of the most inspiring days on the calendar.
Planning to swim or crew in 2026? Now’s the time to start preparing. Entries open in November, and demand is always high. Whether you’re diving in or cheering from the shore, the Rottnest Channel Swim is one summer event you won’t want to miss.