About this event
The Melbourne Open Water Swimming Cup returns to Williamstown Beach on Tuesday 3 November 2026, offering a refreshing way to begin Melbourne Cup Day before the public holiday festivities get underway.
Now an established fixture on the Victorian open water swimming calendar, the event welcomes swimmers of varying experience levels. It is suitable for those attempting their first organised open water swim, as well as experienced competitors seeking an early-season challenge.
Swimmers can choose from four distances: 800m, 1600m, 2400m or 3200m. Each race uses an 800m course that follows the curve of Williamstown Beach and remains close to shore. The shorter distance provides an accessible introduction, while the longer options offer a stronger test for swimmers preparing for bigger summer events.
The 3200m Superfish is intended for faster swimmers competing for the Melbourne Open Water Swimming Cup. The course is supported by water safety measures, with the beach and shoreline kept close throughout the swim.
With views across Port Phillip Bay towards Melbourne’s skyline, the event combines a friendly community atmosphere with the challenge of swimming in open water. Entries are capped at 200 swimmers in total, so places are limited.
Choose a distance, take to the bay and finish the swim with most of Cup Day still ahead. Swim first, celebrations later.
Please mention you found this event via KeepActive when contacting the organiser — thank you for your support!
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