Manly to Bundeena 36km

On 21 January 1788, Governor Arthur Phillip anchored in the harbor and observed the local Aboriginal population, noting their confidence and stature before naming the area 'Manly Cove'. Today, that same shoreline serves as the starting point for a 36km odyssey that pushes the boundaries of endurance, far beyond the scope of local fixtures like the Bondi Blue Water Challenge. This event, managed by Another Level Performance, is a true point-to-point test that requires swimmers to navigate the open Pacific, managing the physical toll of a full day in the water.

The coastal route

As you depart from Little Manly Beach, your perspective of Sydney’s geography shifts entirely. You will quickly encounter the imposing silhouette of the heritage-listed St Patrick's Seminary, a sandstone landmark that has overlooked the harbor entrance since the late 1880s. The swim traces the dramatic coastline past North Head, where the sheltered waters of the cove give way to the raw energy of the Tasman Sea. For those accustomed to the shorter, intense pacing of the Ice Cold Classic, this event demands a completely different strategy, prioritizing long-term energy management over raw speed.

Marine life and landmarks

Throughout the journey toward Bundeena, the marine ecosystem of the Sydney coastline remains a constant companion. The inner harbor coves provide a nursery for diverse life; it is not uncommon for long-distance swimmers to spot giant stingrays gliding over the sandy bottom or sea turtles navigating the current. The historic Manly Ferry Wharf, rebuilt in the 1940s, remains a visual anchor as you head out, while the memory of the long-demolished Manly Fun Pier marks the transition from the harbor’s recreational history to the wilder, southern stretches of the Royal National Park. Because of the extreme distance, the event requires each swimmer to be accompanied by a dedicated support boat, ensuring safety amidst the shifting southerly swells and tidal movements that characterize this stretch of the coast. The event is held annually in mid-December, and while the water is generally temperate, the sheer duration of the effort makes a wetsuit a common choice for many competitors.