SWIM "THE RIP"

Point Nepean to

Point Lonsdale 

 

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SWIM OR RACE “THE RIP” FOR EXTREME SATISFACTION

FEBRUARY 1, 2025

"The Rip" presents a thrilling challenge—a 3.5km swim across the entrance to Port Phillip Bay, the gateway to Melbourne, Australia. With a rich historical significance, it stands as one of the most notorious and exhilarating waterways globally. Swimmers participate in teams of up to 6, with each member completing the entire distance. For those seeking an additional challenge, it can also be swum as a race! In 2025, two crossings will be run —one in summer and one in winter. The winter crossing, in particular, holds special significance as participants must complete it without a wetsuit, paying homage to the original crossing by Douglas Mew in 1971.

 

Listen to an overview of the swim below. For an overview of the race, click here.

WINTER RIP SWIM - JULY 13, 2024 - successfully completed.

We are excited to let you know that all 35 swimmers were successful on Saturday the 13th of July and have now become part of the Winter Rip Swim Club! They earned their placve on the honour board, swimming from Point Nepeant to Point Lonsdale in 12 - 13 degree water without wetsuits!! The list is here.

RIP SWIM BATHERS!

If you have swum with us, you can now order your very own bathers! They are unique! They will feature your honour board number.

CLICK HERE NOW TO ORDER!

 

WATCH THE 2023 RACE

To get a feeling for the race, watch the video from the February 11 event - shot by Ben Lane.



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!”
— John Fergusson – Ripper number 128, Point Lonsdale Life Saving Club member
“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!”
— MALCOLM MCNAB - RIPPER NUMBER 748
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
— Ed Polk - Ripper number 351
Thanks Rip Swim!! Great organisation, communication, safety and fun spirit. 🙏🏼
— REBECCA O'LOUGHLIN - RIPPER NUMBER 589
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.
— Anton Stanitzki - Ripper number 269
 

Local supporters

We are proud to be working alongside the team who make the Bellarine a world-class destination!

 

Milo - The action communicator is here! We are using these brilliant communication devices as part of our safety operation. Why not consider them for your team?!


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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.