The event takes place at Tunstall Bay on the west side of Bowen Island. Please note that the beach is a little rocky, so ensure you wear beach shoes to protect your feet! There is a public toilet at the top the beach trail, and more toilets available at the Tunstall Bay Clubhouse on the north side of the Beach via the ramp by the boat house. (Access to the Clubhouse is limited to bathroom use only). Registration package pick up tents will be set up on the north side of the beach next to the pier. Food, refreshments and the awards ceremony will also take place at the tents! NOTE: There are NO DOGS allowed on the beach during the month of July.

There is a 1500 metre and 750 metre course. Swimmers completing the 1500 metre distance will complete the 750 metre course 2 x through. Large, inflated sighting buoys will mark the route, and a sighting flag will be set up on the beach to ensure clear sight lines to the finish. The route will be well marshaled with paddle boarders, kayakers as well as rigid inflatables to ensure the best possible safety and cheering!

Timing: We’ve got you covered! Swimmers will wear a chip (ankle or wrist) to record their swim time. Chips must be returned at the finish line to avoid a $75 charge.

DEADLINE TO CHANGE EVENT AND/OR ESTIMATED SWIM TIME: THURSDAY JULY 11th

*Please note there is a 1 hour cut off for all registrants. Anyone still in the water at 11:00am will be assisted in by our water marshals.

8:30am: Check-in begins for 750 & 1500 events
9:30am: Check-in closes
9:30-9:45am: Swimmer warm up (optional)
9:45am: swimmer safety briefing (not optional:)
9:55am: Swimmers to start line
10:00am: 1500m Wave I start, 10:05 1500m Wave II start, 10:10 750 m start - self seeded.
10:15am: Food & Refreshment Table opens
11:00am: Course closes
11:15am - 11:45am: Awards & Draw Prizes
12:00pm: Event closes

Average water temperature is between 16 - 18 degrees celsius on event day. It is up to you whether or not you choose to wear a wetsuit. Finish times will not distinguish between wetsuit/non wetsuit swimmers. SwimBowen swim caps are provided during check-in and must be worn for your swim.

Our team is very keen to provide the best possible event experience with all safety precautions in place. The swim routes are clearly marked with large, inflated buoys, and marshaled with paddleboarders, kayakers, and 2 power boats to ensure your experience is not only safe, but has loads of on water cheer leading! Swim fins are not allowed as they are a safety issue. Thanks for understanding!

Looking to replace your SwimBuddy or looking to make your first purchase? 50% of your $65 SwimBuddy purchase supports SwimBowen’s Cancer Care Fund! You may choose to add a SwimBuddy Touring Buoy during registration. Includes a free Cell Buddy (waterproof case for your phone). Swimbuddy’s will be available for pick up when you check in on event day. Please note that using your SwimBuddy for the event is not mandatory as we will have plenty of support marshals on the water ensuring your safety.

Limited Edition Beach Towels!

Thick, 100% Egyptian cotton full size (40”x70”) beach towels embroidered with the SwimBowen logo - gorgeous! Limited quantity. A portion of your $60 purchase supports the Cancer Care Fund. Add this gem to your registration order and pick up on event day!