SWIM "THE RIP"
Point Nepean to
Point Lonsdale
SWIM THE RIP FOR EXTREME SATISFACTION
"The Rip" is a thrilling 3.5km swim across the entrance to Port Phillip Bay, the gateway to Melbourne, Australia. Steeped in history, it is one of the most notorious and thrilling waterways in the world. The swim is done in a team of up 6, but each swimmer completes the entire distance. There is also a race for faster swimmers. In 2025, there will be 2 crossings - 1 in summer and 1 in winter. The winter crossing must be completed without a wetsuit to honour the original crossing by Douglas Mew in 1971.
SUMMER RIP SWIM - FEBRUARY 1st, 2025
Our next summer crossing date is now locked in! Please go here for more information
2024 had 103 successful swimmers!
Congratulations to 103 new swimmers who crossed with us! They have earned their place on our honour board on what was our second biggest crossing in our 10 year history. You can see them here.
WINTER RIP SWIM - JULY 13, 2024
We are excited to let you know that the next swim will be our epic winter crossing. This is a swim without wetsuits to honour the original crossing made in 1971. If you are keen, read more here.
FREE SESSION
Interested in swimming through winter without a wetsuit but not sure where to start?
Come to a free session on May the 5th at Williamstown beach at 9.30am to find out how!
COMPLETED CROSSINGS IN 2023
January 10 - completed with 18 swimmers
February 11 - completed with 83 swimmers (18 racing)
August 5 - completed with 23 swimmers (no wetsuits)
ULTIMATE TEAM SWIM
Each “Rip Swim” crossing is done in a group of 4-6 and you will need to swim together. You will have a dedicated kayaker supplied by us, to guide you to the other side safely. There will also be a flotilla of safety boats. Water temperatures range from 14 - 17 Celsius.
SUMMER CROSSING WITH A RACE!
On Saturday the 11th of February, 2023, 83 swimmers crossed “The Rip” on what was the 2nd largest crossing ever! The field included a race with an Olympian (Bronte Campbell) and groups savouring the experience. Everyone made it! See some pictures below and go to our race page for the race results.
Our groups each had a paddler with them to keep them safe. They stuck together throughout their swim, which is an important part of the crossing. Some of our swimmers from the day are pictured below.
Local supporters
We are proud to be working alongside the team who make the Bellarine a world-class destination!
Watch the video from the February 11 event - shot by Ben Lane. This crossing featured a race with an Olympian (Bronte Campbell) as well as 12 groups.
TESTIMONIALS
“We have been looking at “The Rip” in awe for 40+ years. As a nipper on the front beach in the 1970s we were told endless stories of its power and unpredictability. So when a group of us who were nippers together started talking about the prospect of swimming the Rip it was with a feeling of trepidation that I agreed. The swim was tough but we were well prepared. I must say, being out in the middle of the Heads stopping and taking in the enormity of that body of water is something that will stay with me. The party after the swim was pretty good too!”
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““I struggle to find the right superlatives to describe the Rip Swim. It was one of the most intimidating but most rewarding sporting events I have ever done. The superb organisation of the actual day quickly allowed me to enjoy the excitement of the experience and put any anxieties aside. Sharing the experience with the team only made it more enjoyable (and achievable!). I won’t forget the feeling of putting my feet down on the sand at Point Lonsdale for a long time. Looking forward to joining a team for the next one!””
“Amazing day. Have grown up wondering what it would be like to do it since I was a kid. Thanks for making it possible to achieve. Such a great experience to share with like minded mates”
“Thanks Rip Swim!! Great organisation, communication, safety and fun spirit. 🙏🏼 ”
“Completed the Rip Crossing on Sat 3rd Feb. What a great event. Well done to Grant and your team. I will be back again, and will be telling all the swimmers I know that this is a ‘Must Do’ swim. Keep up the good work and look forward to further editions over the coming years.”
“The Rip”
Location: "The Rip" is located in Port Phillip Bay, Victoria, Australia. It is actually a triangular area of water between 3 landmarks but the swim goes from Point Nepean to Point Lonsdale.