The Oceans 8 Charity Swim makes its highly anticipated return to Vetch’s Beach, Durban Undersea Club, on June 14th & 15th (16th) 2025 – bringing together passionate swimmers, ocean lovers, and change-makers for a challenge that goes beyond the waves.
Founded by charities for charities, this feel-good, warm-water swim is more than just a race – it’s a movement. Committed to creating a sustainable flow of funding for 14 deserving non-profits across KwaZulu-Natal, the event continues to make a powerful impact on South Africa’s open-water swimming community.
Since its launch in 2023, Oceans 8 has raised over R1.7 million, directly benefiting 23 charities working in education, environmental conservation, and community upliftment. This unique, two-day event invites participants to find a mile to suit their style, with distances from 1, 4, 8 – as well as a challenging 16-mile swim. With Durban’s mild winter weather and Vetch’s Beach providing ideal ocean conditions, swimmers of all abilities can turn their passion into purpose.
“Oceans 8 combines the thrill of open-water swimming with the warmth of community spirit,” says Nicci Carvalho, event spokesperson. “It champions local charities, drives sustainability, and unites South Africans for a common cause.”
Making an Impact – In and Out of the Water
Oceans 8 is committed to eco-friendly practices, minimising its environmental footprint by eliminating single-use plastics, sourcing local materials, and incorporating recycled products wherever possible. In partnership with Adopt-a-River, the event also hosts beach and dune cleanups, ensuring that every stroke through the ocean contributes to a cleaner, healthier coastline.
Schools across Durban are invited to dive in for a cause, with students earning community hours by fundraising and participating in the 1-mile swim. Schools can also compete for the Alex Speirs Memorial Trophy (most funds raised) and the Andrew Cribbins Memorial Trophy (highest number of participants) – both giving schools a chance to demonstrate their commitment to uplifting the country.
Believing in the power of sport to transform lives, Oceans 8 partners with the Lamontville Swimming Academy to provide underprivileged swimmers with the opportunity to participate. In 2024, five young swimmers took on the 1-mile challenge, and in 2025, the initiative aims to double its reach, calling on sponsors to support 10 talented swimmers (5 female, 5 male) on their Oceans 8 journey.
Powered by Passionate Partnerships
With the support of sponsors like Stanley SA, Arena, and IPSS Medical Rescue, alongside dedicated volunteers and returning partners, Oceans 8 continues to thrive. Their generosity ensures that 100% of funds raised by swimmers go directly to the benefitting charities – a testament to the event’s integrity and impact.
Summing up the heart of the event, Nicci Carvalho says, “Oceans 8 is where passion meets purpose. Every swimmer, supporter, and sponsor plays a key role in creating real change. The energy is electric, the camaraderie is inspiring, and the knowledge that your swim is making a difference stays with you long after you cross the finish line.”
Enter now!
Visit www.oceans8swim.co.za to enter the 2025 Oceans 8 Charity Swim. For more information or to learn about partnership opportunities, contact info@oceans8swim.co.za. Keep updated on all the action by following @oceans8_charityswim on Instagram and oceans8swim on Facebook.
8- and 16-mile charities supported by the Oceans 8 Charity Swim 2025:
• Duzi-Umngeni Conservation Trust
• National Sea Rescue Institute
• Project Rhino
• Singakwenza
1- and 4-mile charities supported by the Oceans 8 Charity Swim 2025:
• CROW (Centre for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife)
• Game Rangers’ Association of South Africa
• IPSS Search and Rescue
• Makabongwe Pre-School
• Made for More
• Nazareth House in Berea
• Umduduzi – Hospice Care for Children
• Pietermaritzburg Children’s Home
• Rise Against Hunger Africa
• Sport for Lives
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Author: Agnes Matladi from Olivia Jones Communications on behalf of Ocean8.
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