Oceans 8 swim raises over R1.5m for charity
What began as a small initiative with ambitious goals of creating meaningful impact has expanded considerably to support those in need.
MORE than R1.5m was raised for charity during the 2026 Oceans 8 Charity Swim, held over two days at Vetch’s Beach at the Durban Undersea Club.
The annual event, which took place on May 23 and 24, attracted more than 300 swimmers from across SA, collectively raising R1 517 687 for 14 charities focused on conservation, education, rehabilitation and community care.
One of the standout contributors was Gauteng swimmer Robert Tout (33), who raised R101 185 while competing in the 8-Mile swim in support of the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI).
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Oceans 8 spokesperson Nicci Carvalho said the event has grown significantly since its launch in 2023.
“Starting as a small event in 2023 with big dreams of making real impact, we are incredibly proud of how Oceans 8 has grown and the way people are coming together to support others in need,” said Carvalho.
“The conditions were incredible, with fish over the reef and lovely weather. It felt like a celebration, not only of athletic achievement but of impact and the privilege of swimming in the ocean.”
Strokes of generosity
Now regarded as South Africa’s first warm-water ocean challenge dedicated to charitable fundraising, Oceans 8 combines endurance swimming with social impact. Participants competed in 1-, 4-, 8- and 16-mile races, swimming a combined estimated distance of 1455 miles over the course of the weekend.
Organisers noted a significant increase in participation in the 1-Mile category this year, highlighting growing community involvement and broader accessibility for swimmers supporting the event’s invitational charities.
The event also saw strong participation from Gauteng-based swimmers, alongside returning athletes who have competed in all four editions of Oceans 8. Since its inception, Oceans 8 has raised more than R4.5m for charity.
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This year also marked the continuation of the Oceans 8 Development Swimmers Programme, supported by four anonymous donors and sponsor Alu Direct.
The programme brought five young swimmers and their coach, Janet Dlamini, to Durban for what organisers described as a life-changing ocean swimming experience. Dlamini’s passion for lifesaving began at the age of 16 after witnessing a rescue at Zinkwazi Beach. She now mentors underprivileged youth through swimming and lifesaving programmes aimed at creating opportunities in maritime safety, professional diving and the Navy.
“The best experience ever! Thank you for the amazing opportunity,” said Dlamini.
“We had so much fun. The guys were excited, a bit tired, but happy and proud.”
Charities supported through the 8- and 16-mile events included the Duzi-uMngeni Conservation Trust, National Sea Rescue Institute, Project Rhino and Singakwenza Early Childhood Education.
Beneficiaries linked to the 1- and 4-mile swims included CROW (Centre for Rehabilitation of Wildlife), IPSS Search and Rescue, Rise Against Hunger Africa, Sport for Lives and Umduduzi Hospice Care for Children, among others.
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