Swimmers Invited To Dive Into A Once-In-A-Lifetime Reef Experience

Open-water swimmers from across the state and beyond are being invited to take part in one of the world’s most spectacular aquatic events, with the Great Barrier Reef Ocean Swim set to return on Saturday, the 17th of October 2026.

Now in its sixth year, the Great Barrier Reef Ocean Swim has earned a reputation as a true bucket-list event, offering participants the rare chance to swim directly above the Great Barrier Reef - one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World. Operated by a highly experienced team from the swimming world and supported by the wider community, the event continues to grow in popularity while maintaining a strong focus on safety, professionalism and unforgettable experiences.

The swim takes place at Sunlover Pontoon on Moore Reef, located 50 kilometres off the coast of Cairns. Competitors will complete a marked course using floating buoys positioned above coral and sand, allowing swimmers to race alongside and directly over the reef while immersed in crystal-clear aqua-blue waters and vibrant marine life.

Swimmers can choose from competitive 2km, 3km and 5km races, or opt for the more relaxed 1km ‘Swim the Reef’ fun swim, designed for those who want to soak up the scenery without the pressure of racing. The fun swim allows participants to use fins, snorkels or flotation aids, making it accessible to a wider range of confident swimmers aged 13 and over.

The event is capped at 300 swimmers and includes a full day on the reef, with ferry transport from Cairns Marina, safety briefings, professional lifeguard and medical support, race timing for competitive events, event photography, merchandise, and a tropical buffet lunch on the pontoon. Participants will also have time to snorkel, explore the reef via a semi-submarine and enjoy post-race celebrations on the return journey.

Organisers say the event is about far more than racing. It is designed to celebrate the natural beauty of the Great Barrier Reef while delivering a world-class ocean swimming experience in a setting unlike any other.

Entries opened on the 1st of December 2025, with early bird registrations available until the 26th of January. Swimmers are encouraged to jump online to www.greatbarrierreefswims.com.au to secure their place early for what promises to be one of the most memorable swims of a lifetime.

WHAT: Great Barrier Reef Ocean Swim
WHEN: Saturday, the 17th of October
WHERE: Moore Reef, Cairns