Swim 'The Rip' |
'The Rip' - Australia's most notorious swim
'The Rip' lies at the entrance to Port Phillip, Melbourne, Australia.
Due to strong tides and unpredictable weather it is one of the most notorious stretches of water anywhere in the world. Thanks to a new project launched in 2014, it can now be swum in groups in a safe manner with the full support of the authorities. The swim is approximately 3.2km and must be done without a wetsuit.
Why swim 'The Rip'?
There are more people who have swum the English Channel than 'The Rip'.
Swimming 'The Rip' will make you feel alive. This is no ordinary swim. With fast and unpredictable tides, a shipping lane to cross and abundant sea life, crossing this notorious stretch gives you bragging rights to an elite club. It is a thrill, plain and simple. And, it is completely doable for any swimmer. That's right, even you!
Safe Passage with us
When you book a Rip Swim with us, you are ensured of a safe passage across the most dangerous stretch of water in Australia. Do not attempt to do this by yourself or with any other group. We are the only group working closely with the Port of Melbourne Authority to manage shipping and keep you safe. Our track record is unblemished and we use only surveyed boats and highly trained skippers. We have a world-class risk and safety management plan in place.
Training for 'The Rip'
To swim 'The Rip' confidently, we suggest you train for a 5km open water swim in rough conditions. It is much better to train for more and feel confident that you have the strength to swim across (not into) a tide at the end as you approach the other side. It is up to you to do the right amount of training, but we will keep you informed of any training sessions we run.
How to swim 'The Rip'
Start by doing some training! Then gather a group together that is of similar speed. Groups of 6-8 will be able to choose their dates. Individuals will be slotted into appropriate groups. Please be aware that as we can only do swims on suitable tides and dates are limited (see dates). Once you and your group are ready to swim either as a group or as an individual (individuals can go here to find other swimmers)
The Swim
Initial boat pickup point (Sorrento or Queenscliff) will be advised before your swim. At this stage, all swims will go from Point Nepean to Point Lonsdale but this may change at a later date. At the completion of your swim, the boat will drop you off at the same point where you were picked up.
More Safety and the only endorsed organisation to take you across
This is a dangerous swim and YOUR safety is our paramount concern. All swimmers must follow our instructions at all times. Any swimmer who does not stay within a nominated distance of the pack will be cautioned and then removed if this continues. Our boat/s will carry essential safety rescue equipment that will be used if necessary. Further safety instructions will be issued to you when you book your swim.
We work with the best skippers who drive the best boats. All our boats are surveyed (licensed as commercial operators by Transport Safety Victoria). Our knowledge of the area is exemplary and our understanding of getting swimmers across 'tricky' bodies of water is world-class. All our personnel are thoroughly briefed in our methods and we leave nothing to chance.
Our jet ski and RHIB craft are extremely safe to pick you up from the water should an emergency arise.
^ The honour roll includes all swimmers who have crossed 'The Rip' successfully. If you do not make it across THE RIP the first time, you will be given the opportunity to try again at a 20% reduced fee. We are confident that with the right approach to training and by following our instructions, a very high percentage of swimmers will make it across.
Group Rip Swim
Your safety is our priority
$470
Thorough safety briefing
Big, comfortable and safe escort boat to the start line
Constant supervision from escort boat and Jet Ski or RHIB (rigid hull inflatable boat)
Doctor or paramedic/senior first aider available on every trip
Shipping traffic managed in conjunction with the Port of Melbourne Corporation
Free photos of your trip (as download)
Membership to a very rare club of swimmers
Unique 'Rip Swim' number
Place on the honour roll
Commemorative t-shirt
Survivor certificate
❊ Web Links ❊
➼ Book Online Here
➼ Swim 'The Rip'
Disclaimer: Check with the venue (web links) before making plans, travelling or buying tickets.
Accessibility: Contact the venue for accessibility information.
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