
Robben Island Swim Training in Cape Town
Do you have your heart set on completing a Robben Island Swim?
Turn that dream into a reality with our tried-and-tested 12-Week Robben Island Swim Training Program.
This advanced open water swimming program will gear you up to take on the iconic 7.4km swim from Robben Island to Blouberg in the Atlantic Ocean of Cape Town, South Africa.
Who is This Program For?
This course is for experienced open water swimmers who are ready to take their swimming to the next level.
When Does the Program Run?
Our fully guided training program, 12 Weeks to Robben Island, runs twice a year:
August – November
January – March
We also have a self-led online Robben Island Readiness Guide, that you can join at any time and follow along at your own pace.
Guided Training: 12 Weeks to Robben Island
This holistic training experience includes physical, nutritional and mindset support to get you confident to take on the Robben Island Swim.
What’s Included:

Mentorship & Support
Group guidance from your program leader:
- Exclusive coaching platform with weekly guidance and check-ins
- Monthly Zoom Q&A Call
- Assistance in coordinating boat support (fee not included)
Training Peaks Plan
Fully integrated 12-Week Robben Island Training Plan on Training Peaks:
- View upcoming workouts
- Sync workouts to your phone and training watch
- Track your progress


Guided Ocean Swims
3-Month full access to our Swim Membership:
- Weekly guided group ocean swims for the 3-month period. View the Member Page for the weekly swim schedule.
- Access to the Glen Country Club facilities next to Clifton.
- A branded swim cap for new swimmers.
Requirements:
To take part in the program, you need to be:
- Able to commit to 4 training sessions per week (1-2 hours each) for the 12-week period. Some of these sessions need to be completed in your own time.
- Can comfortably swim 1.6km in the ocean and manage 30 minutes in cold water at the start of the course.
- Free from injuries and serious health conditions.
Please note: Course fee excludes entry fee for the Robben Island event.
Upcoming Robben Island Training Program
No Course Dates Visible Yet?
Join the Robben Island Early Access List to be the first to know when new course dates get published!
Self-led Robben Island Training
If you’d like to train on your own, but would like a step-by-step plan to follow, this option will provide the framework for a successful crossing. Join at any time and follow along at your own pace (recommended training time is 12 weeks, but this can be adapted).
Still unsure which option is for you?
Feel free to email us on info@capetownswim.com with any questions you may have.
We can’t wait to help you reach your goal!


