The Oceans 8 Charity Swim has grown into one of KwaZulu-Natal’s most impactful charitable events, with more than 300 swimmers raising R1,517,687 through the 2026 edition, which took place at Vetch’s Beach at the Durban Undersea Club on 23 and 24 May.
Image credit: Anthony Grote Photography
With final donations still being processed through to the end of May, this total is expected to increase further, with all donations going to 14 beneficiary charities across conservation, education, rehabilitation, and care.
A standout achievement this year came from Robert Tout (33), a Gauteng resident who raised an exceptional R101,185 while swimming the 8-Mile event in support of the National Sea Rescue Institute.
“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 Nicci Carvalho, Oceans 8 event spokesperson.
“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.”
A Growing Movement for Good
Created by charities for charities, Oceans 8 is South Africa’s first warm-water ocean challenge of its kind, designed to connect sport with sustainable fundraising. This year, more than 300 swimmers took part across the 1-, 4-, 8- and 16-mile events, collectively swimming approximately 1,455 miles for charity over the weekend.
A notable trend in 2026 was the increase in 1-Mile participants, reflecting growing community engagement and wider accessibility for swimmers supporting the 10 invitational charities. The event also welcomed a significant number of participants from Gauteng, alongside a strong return of swimmers who have now taken part in all four editions of Oceans 8.
Oceans 8 By Numbers 2026
- R4,554,486 raised since 2023 inception
- R1,517,687 raised in 2026 (101% of fundraising target achieved)
- R101,185 raised by top performer, Robert Tout
- Over 300 swimmers participated
- Approximately 1,455 miles swum for charity
- 14 beneficiary charities supported annually
- 4 founding charities driving long-term impact
Development Swimmers Programme
This year also saw a continuation of the Oceans 8 Development Swimmers Programme, made possible through four anonymous donors and a contribution from sponsor, Alu Direct.
Five young swimmers and their coach, Janet Dlamini, were brought to the event for a life-changing ocean experience. Janet’s journey began at age 16 after witnessing a life-saving rescue, inspiring a lifelong commitment to lifesaving and youth mentorship at Zinkwazi Beach. Today, she works with underprivileged youth, using swimming and lifesaving skills to guide them toward positive futures.
Her swimmers this year included:
- Newly qualified lifeguards aspiring to become professional divers
- Young trainees aiming for careers in the Navy and maritime safety
- Emerging lifeguards developing both competitive and professional aquatic skills
Coach Janet shared her gratitude, saying, “The best experience ever! Thank you for the amazing opportunity. We had so much fun. The guys were excited, a bit tired, but happy and proud.”
Thanks to Sponsors and Partners
Oceans 8 extended its gratitude to all sponsors and supporters who made the 2026 event possible, including: arena, Stanley, Alu Direct, RCVR Electrolytes, LEDurban and Build It Hilton Village.
Special thanks were also given to the volunteer teams, participating charities, safety and medical crews, and the wider community whose time and dedication helped bring the event to life.
8- and 16-mile charities supported by the Oceans 8 Charity Swim 2026:
- Duzi-Umngeni Conservation Trust
- National Sea Rescue Institute
- Project Rhino
- Singakwenza Early Childhood Education
1- and 4-mile charities supported by the Oceans 8 Charity Swim 2026:
- 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
For more information, visit www.oceans8swim.co.za. Keep updated on all the action by following @oceans8_charityswim on Instagram and oceans8swim on Facebook.
