Sea— South Africa

Freedom Day Swim

Apr 21, 2018
Last edition date
Distance: 8km

At a glance

Last edition date
April 21, 2018
Distances
8 km
Where
Sea · Robben Island / Big Bay, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
Historical race — no upcoming edition announced

About the race

The Freedom Swim is an extreme 7.5km open water swimming event from Robben Island to Blouberg. Known as the 'Everest' of open water swimming, it challenges participants with icy ocean temperatures around 13°C and strong currents. The event celebrates South Africa's democracy and raises funds for charity, featuring both solo and relay categories for a wide range of swimmers.

Course

How to get there

Cape Town International Airport (CPT) is 25km away. Cape Town Central Railway Station is 15km away. Accessible by car via the N1 or via Uber/Bolt services, which are widely available. Parking is available at the Waterfront or nearby beach areas; arriving early is recommended to manage traffic flow.

Frequently asked questions

When was the last edition of Freedom Day Swim?
The last edition of Freedom Day Swim took place on April 21, 2018.
What distances does Freedom Day Swim offer?
Freedom Day Swim has a single distance: 8 km.
Where does Freedom Day Swim take place?
Freedom Day Swim is a sea swim. Location: Robben Island / Big Bay, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa.
How do I register for Freedom Day Swim?
The reference page for registering for Freedom Day Swim is http://www.freedomswimseries.co.za.

Where to stay

Bloubergstrand features a variety of stays ranging from self-catering beach apartments and converted fisherman’s cottages to boutique hotels overlooking the Atlantic. Expect rates between R1,200 and R3,500 per night depending on proximity to the coastline and the level of amenities provided. Many properties offer direct access to the beach, allowing for early morning acclimatization in the bay's waters.

Things to do nearby

Beyond the water, the area is defined by its coastal trails and heritage sites. Visitors often explore the Blaauwberg Nature Reserve to view ancient shell middens, or visit the historical coastal defense positions. For those looking to remain active, the bay is a hub for kite-surfing and SUP, while the nearby Durbanville wine valley provides a contrast with cellar door tastings and vineyard cycling tours.

Swimmers

What to see around

1. Table Mountain (hike or cable car), 2. Robben Island (historical tour), 3. V&A Waterfront (shopping and restaurants), 4. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden (hiking), 5. Lion's Head (panoramic sunset view).

Other races by this organiser

Similar races

Comments

Transparency: some links on this page (stays, flights, experiences, gear) are affiliate links — if you book or buy through them, Omniathlon may earn a commission from the partner at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.