X-WATERS Владивосток

About the race

The Eastern Bosphorus strait is a dynamic corridor of water that demands respect for its natural forces. Stretching approximately nine kilometers and narrowing to a mere 800 meters at its tightest point, the strait functions as a deep-water channel, reaching depths of up to 50 meters. Swimmers should anticipate shifting currents driven by the tidal exchange between the Amur and Ussuri bays, which requires precise navigation across the point-to-point courses. The water temperature in mid-September is generally manageable, but the oceanic influence of the Sea of Japan maintains a bracing quality that favors a steady, rhythmic stroke. While the race relies on kayak support and clear buoy markers, understanding the tidal window is essential for maintaining a consistent pace during the longer crossings.

Historical currents and sights. As you navigate the stretch between the mainland and Russky Island, the landscape offers a profound connection to the region's maritime history. The route takes you past the Novosiltsevskaya Battery, a 19th-century fortification perched at an elevation of 45.8 meters on the island's tip, which remains a protected cultural heritage site. Looking toward the shore, you may recall that this area, once known by the Chinese name Haishenwai—meaning 'sea cucumber bay'—was defined by a massive abundance of these marine creatures before industrial expansion. This historical richness is still evident today; the seabed in places like Ajax Bay is carpeted with sea cucumbers, scallops, and sea urchins.

Beyond the shoreline, the modern era makes its mark through the Russky Bridge. Completed in 2012, this architectural giant features a central span of 1,104 meters and towers reaching 324 meters, creating a monumental visual guide as you cross the strait. The coastal geography also holds reminders of a wilder past; the nearby Tigrovy Cape bears its name for a reason, as Siberian tigers were historically known to roam the forest-covered slopes and occasionally wander into the city limits during the early settlement years. The maritime legacy of the area is further punctuated by the memory of the Korean haenyeo divers from Jeju Island, who were a vital presence in these waters throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The race offers distances ranging from a 50m children’s sprint to a 10km challenge around Skryplev Island, with entry fees varying from 20 to 140 EUR depending on the distance and timing. Each registration includes a swim cap, a rental timing chip, and a safety buoy, ensuring that you are well-equipped to experience the same currents that have shaped the history of this unique strait.

Course

• 50 m — Children's race.
• 200 m — Children's race.
• 500 m — Short distance course.
• 1.2 km — Known as 'Russian Verst', point-to-point course.
• 2 km — Point-to-point course across the Bosphorus East strait.
• 4.7 km — Point-to-point across Bosphorus East strait, passing under the world's largest cable-stayed bridge.
• 10 km — Course around Skryplev Island.

Entry fees

• 50 m — 20 € · Children 50m
• 200 m — 25 € · Children 200m
• 500 m — 55 €
• 1.2 km — 50 €
• 2 km — 60 €
• 4.7 km — 120 € · Bosphorus East
• 10 km — 140 € · Around Skryplev

Includes timing chip rental, swim cap, buoy rental, and sticker pack.

Awards

Details available in the official race regulations (Polozhenie).

Participant kit

• Swim cap
• Timing chip (rental)
• Safety buoy (rental)
• Sticker pack

Additional partner gifts included.

Mandatory gear

• Safety buoy — Provided by organizers as rental, must be used.

Organizer

X-WATERS

Official site

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