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Durban’s winter isn’t quite the same as anywhere else in the country. No need for thick jackets. No furry boots. And, thanks to the Indian Ocean, we can still hit the surf while everyone is warming up by the fire. That’s why, this May, everyone is heading to Vetch’s Beach at Durban Undersea Club to participate in the Oceans 8 Charity Swim.
Taking place on 23 and 24 May 2026 (with a possible weather window on 25 May), the event brings together swimmers, supporters and 14 beneficiary charities for a purpose-driven weekend in the ocean. Founded by charities, for charities, Oceans 8 has already raised more than R3 million since its launch, supporting organisations across KwaZulu-Natal.
Choose your swim challenge
Whether you’re dipping your toe into ocean swimming or chasing a serious endurance goal, there’s a category for you:
- 1 Mile Swim
A great entry-level option with multiple event slots.
Cost: R200 + min. R800 fundraising
- 4 Mile Swim
2 miles per day across two days.
Cost: R700 + min. R3 000 fundraising
- 8 Mile Swim
4 miles per day across two days.
Cost: R1 100 + min. R5 000 fundraising
- 16 Mile Swim
The ultimate endurance test: 8 miles per day.
Cost: R1 100 + min. R5 000 fundraising
- Interschools 1-Mile Swim
Learners represent their schools, raise funds, and compete for trophies.
A story of resilience
While the distances are impressive, it’s the human stories behind Oceans 8 that truly define the event. This year, one story stands out. Kathryn Powell (East Rand) and Alwande Mthembu (Ntuzuma, KZN) have been brought together through an extraordinary act of generosity.
After surviving a life-threatening leopard attack and a long, complex recovery, Kathryn found renewed purpose in giving back. Unable to compete this year as she continues rebuilding her strength, she chose to gift her entry to Alwande, a young woman with a visual impairment who continues to push boundaries.
“Oceans 8 brought so much more than just a swim,” says Kathryn. “It gave us an outlet to pour our energy back into the community that supported us during our hardest days. This is not just about swimming but creating opportunities, lifting others up, and being part of something bigger than yourself.”
Alwande’s journey is also inspiring. A chess player, professional dancer, and graduate in Drama, Theatre and Performance, she’s also a three-time gold medallist at the SA Surf Champs for adaptive surfing — having discovered the sport through Made for More.
Reflecting on her upcoming swim, she says: “I am out of words for this opportunity. It’s a privilege and an honour to represent Kathryn and her family. I’m so excited to swim, to grow, and to create lasting connections. I am truly grateful.”
Charities making waves
Funds raised through the longer-distance swims support four founding charities:
- Duzi-Umngeni Conservation Trust
- National Sea Rescue Institute
- Project Rhino
- Singakwenza Early Childhood Education
Meanwhile, the 1- and 4-mile swimmers help support ten additional organisations including:
- 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
- Pietermaritzburg Children’s Home
- Rise Against Hunger Africa
- Sport for Lives
- Umduduzi – Hospice Care for Children
How to enter
Entries are now open, so if you’re ready to swim with purpose, you can sign up and start fundraising. Visit www.oceans8swim.co.za for details and registration, and follow the journey on Instagram @oceans8_charityswim or Facebook oceans8swim.
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