Here’s your refined version with that exclusivity piece woven in naturally and cleanly:
Not everyone wants to race — and we know that first-hand.
We’re swimmers too, and while racing is a big part of what we do, some of the best moments in the water have nothing to do with a finish line or a clock.
Sometimes it’s about the experience.
The feeling of being in the ocean. The people you’re with. The coffee afterwards. The stories shared once you’re back on land.
Over the years, we’ve seen more and more swimmers wanting something a little different — not faster, not harder, just… more meaningful.
That’s why we’ve created SwimXperiences.
These are guided swims designed to take you somewhere new — places you wouldn’t normally swim, and often couldn’t easily or safely do on your own. They’re about slowing things down, enjoying the environment, and being part of a group that shares the same love of the water.
To keep that experience special, SwimXperiences are capped at much smaller numbers, creating a more personal, relaxed, and exclusive atmosphere both in and out of the water.
There’s no pressure, no racing, and no expectations.
Just a well-supported, memorable swim in an incredible location.
Because sometimes the best swims aren’t the ones you race…
they’re the ones you truly experience.
Entries to the SwimXpereinces and single pass swim swill be released Sunday 31st May.
SwimXperience One - Bay of Islands Island hop
30th January 2027
Take a 40-minute ferry ride out to Roberton Island, where the day begins before you even hit the water.
Step off the ferry, take in the golden sands and stunning landscape, and enjoy a moment to soak it all in before the swim begins.
From there, you’ll set off on a 4.4km swim back to Russell’s iconic Long Beach — a course known for its clear water, vibrant marine life, and calm, safe conditions.
If you’re after a slightly shorter challenge, there’s also a 2.2km option, starting directly from a boat in open water and joining the main course on the way to shore — giving you the same incredible finish experience.
Only 228 spots available for the LONg swim and 83 for the MID — once they’re gone, they’re gone.
A deliberately limited field to keep the experience safe, relaxed, and unforgettable.
It’s more than just a swim.
It’s a journey — from island to shore — and one of the most memorable ocean swims you’ll ever do.
SwimXperience Two - Swim The Night
February 27th 8pm - 9pm
Not many people get the chance to swim in the dark — and even fewer realise how incredible it actually is.
Swim the Night is a completely different kind of experience.
As the sun sets and the lake goes quiet, you’ll head out into the water under the night sky, guided by glow sticks, soft lighting, and a fully supported safety team around you.
This isn’t about speed.
It’s about slowing things down, floating on your back, and looking up at the stars — something most swimmers have never experienced before.
The pace is relaxed, the atmosphere is calm, and you’re encouraged to take it all in. We’ll even pause at points to let the group float, reset, and enjoy the moment together.
You’ll be equipped with glow lights and safety support throughout, creating a safe, visible, and truly unique environment in the water.
<strong>Numbers are strictly limited</strong> to keep the experience personal and controlled.
It’s not a race.
It’s not something you rush.
It’s one of those swims you’ll remember long after you’ve dried off.
SwimXperience Three - The Whenuakura Journey
Whangamata Sunday March 14th 2027
There are some swims you line up for…
and then there are the ones you’ll talk about for years.
The Donut Island SwimXperience is exactly that.
Set just off the coast of Whangamatā, this guided swim takes you out to the iconic Donut Island (Whenuakura) — a place many people have seen, but very few have ever swum into.
You’ll head out as a small, supported group, making your way across clear blue water before entering the island’s hidden lagoon — a natural volcanic crater open to the sky. It’s calm, surreal, and unlike anything else you’ll experience in New Zealand.
Once inside, we take the time to pause.
Float. Look up. Take it in.
This isn’t about racing — it’s about being part of something special, in a place that holds real natural and cultural significance.
You’ll be guided the entire way with full water safety support, making it accessible, safe, and enjoyable for a wide range of swimmers.
Numbers are strictly limited to protect the environment, respect the location, and keep the experience personal.
It’s not just a swim.
It’s a place most people never get to experience like this.
Pricing for SwimXperience
Event April – May 31 June 1 – Aug 2 Aug 3 – Oct 4 Oct 5 – Event Day Island Hop Full 4.4km – Swim Experience $125 $135 $140 $150 Island Hop Half 2.2km – Swim Experience $89 $99 $109 $119 The Donut Swim $89 $99 $109 $119 Swim The Night – 2.5km Night Swim Experience $89 $99 $109 $119 * Note: Entry fees do not include ferry ticket for Russell, Bay of Islands. Two ferry options will be available during registration.
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