As a result of the overwhelming interest in the Rottnest Channel Swim, the Virtual Rottnest Channel Swim (VRCS) was originated in 2003 to enable the wider community to participate. The VRCS is ideal for swimmers who can’t attend the actual Rottnest Channel Swim, don’t wish to swim in the ocean but enjoy distance swimming or missed the cut-off for entries for the 2026 South32 Rottnest Channel Swim.
The annual Virtual South32 Rottnest Channel Swim is held in various swimming pools across Australia and internationally and is commonly held on the same day as the South32 Rottnest Channel Swim.
A list of 2026 participating pools and swimming groups will be available shortly.
Register Your Pool / Swimming Group Here
Event Category Details
There are two separate event categories and an accrued distance:
1. The 20km Individual / Team Event for the serious swimmers
Individuals, duos or teams of four can compete in this event. An individual swim is open to all swimmers over the age of 14 years, and the team event is open to all swimmers over the age of 10 years as at the start of the event.
2. The 20km Novelty Event for the more social swimmers
Maximum team size of 10 swimmers with the swim open to anyone over the age of 10 years on the day of the event – Saturday, 21 February 2026.
The swim will be conducted in your local pool and a distance of 20km to be completed. The VRCS is recommended to commence between 6.45am and 8.00am and finish no later than 6.00pm. The pool manager/event organiser will conduct the race briefing 15 minutes prior to the start.
- Accrued 20km distance between the event and six weeks prior
Individuals over the age of 14 years may accrue the 20km distance over a six-week period between Sunday, 11 January 2026 and Saturday, 21 February 2026. You can only choose this option if your local pool/swimming group has agreed to manage this.
For Pools/Swimming Groups
The Virtual South32 Rottnest Channel Swim is a fun, community event and a great fundraising opportunity for pools/swimming groups locally and internationally! The Rottnest Channel Swim Association will provide you with all of the resources and support you need to hold a high-quality, enjoyable event for your community whilst giving you the freedom to organise an event that works for you.
To become a Virtual South32 Rottnest Channel Swim pool/swimming club:
- Step 1 – Register your pool here.
- Step 2 – Purchase a Digital Pack containing all the registration forms and templates you need to run your event. Purchase digital swim packs here!
- Step 3 – Purchase swim caps and medals for your participants. This year, following feedback from participating pools, you can now purchase individual swimmer packs that contain a swim cap and medal. You can also purchase a prize pack to give away at your event! Purchase swim packs here!
Purchase a Virtual Swim Pack
Questions?
For more information, head to the Virtual Swim FAQs:
or feel free to contact the Rottnest Channel Swim Association at query@rottnestchannelswim.com.au.
