SATURDAY 17 OCTOBER 2026
SWIM THE REEF
- RACE 5KM, 3KM & 2KM
- SWIM THE REEF 1KM
Sunlover Pontoon, Moore Reef
*Departs Cairns Marina, Reef Fleet Terminal
RACE
2KM / 3KM / 5KM
Our 5km, 3km and 2km swims will be held in these age-bands. Female & Male, Age Groups: Up to 29 years, 30/39, 40/49, 50/59, 60+ years.
This race will be swam under our regular race rules of entry. Entrants must be able to finish the course within the time limits of each distance.
5km = 02.30.00
3km = 01.30.00
2km = 01.30.00
Fastest Swimmer for each Category Awarded.
These swims will start first as they are timed, timing is monitored by Masters Swimming Queensland, and all times/placings will be recorded.
Awards to be presented post race, on-board.
The race is anticipated to take approximately 2 hours until final finishers cross the line. The course is marked out by buoys over a 1km distance.
Although this may change, subject to conditions and ensuring turning buoys are placed over sand and not coral.
SWIM THE REEF
1KM
If you simply want to enjoy swimming an ‘ocean swim’ over the Great Barrier Reef, with no time or real racing pressure – our fun swim is the one for you.
1km = Open to anyone able/capable of completing the course safely (event 02.30.00 cut off).
Regular rules are thrown out of the window – wear fins, snorkels, paddles, whatever you choose. Swim 1km around the course, take your time!
This swim is spectacular – skirting the edges of this section of the barrier reef and offering prime viewing as you race. Your day out will include all the opportunities to snorkel etc, but a race venue you will never forget it.
Need more information?
Full Day Trip - Great Barrier Reef
- Full day trip to the outer reef
- Return ferry trip (120km return)
- Departing Cairns Marina approximately 8.30 am (TBC)
- Reef Presentation by marine biologist
- On board welcome talk with Event Ambassador & Race Directors
- Hot & cold tropical buffet lunch
- The Event
- Free time to explore the reef
- Snorkelling equipment
- Stinger/lycra suits
- Event safety, Lifeguard supervision throughout the swims & stay on the reef
- Underwater observatory fish & coral viewing
- Waterslide!
- Coral viewing by Semi-Submersible vessel trips (2-4 per day)
- Fish feeding [conducted by crew]
- Medical Support – Sunlover Crew & hired Event Paramedic for the day
- Return approximately 5.30pm
Age Restrictions/Details
SWIMMERS:
13 yrs to 17 yrs : 1km
18+ : 1km, 2km, 3km, 5km
SPECTATORS
15 yrs and under, must be supervised by an adult
Maximum 300 Swimmers
The Pontoon takes a maximum of 300 people – and we have exclusive use of it for the day. Don’t miss out, secure your spot.
All Inclusions
- A full day out on the Great Barrier Reef: 120km round trip to the reef
- 4/4.5 Hours out on the reef
- Meal & Beverages
- Pre-race briefing
- Race course marked out by buoys and a truly spectacular venue
- The Race!
- Health, safety & medical
- A chance at seeing Nemo, Sea Turtles and a 100% likelihood of seeing beautiful marine life, coral and blue-blue ocean.
- Warm-up and the most beautiful swim down opportunities you will ever experience
- Opportunity to meet and chat with race ambassador
- Timing information
- Photography, underwater and above water. Potential drone coverage and GoPro footage for all competitors
- Merchandise Package including Race Swim Cap, Participation Medal + more
- Evening Social Function