The Freedom Swim is considered the “Everest” of every open water swimmer in South Africa. It is also the apex of the Freedom Swim Series that takes place throughout the year. The swim is known as one of the hardest extreme cold open water swims in the world. The swim has various categories from solo no-wetsuit to various relay categories.

The swim offers an unparalleled challenge to open water swimmers in South Africa and around the world. It combines the beauty and challenge of Robben Island and Table Mountain, both world-renowned sites. The swim brings together a unique mix of athletes, elite swimmers, and regular cold-water swimmers, young and old from all over South Africa.

The swim is done in the water channel between Robben Island and Big Bay mainland. The main extreme factor for open water swimmers is the water temperature which is usually around 13C / 55.4F. Since it is open to the vast Atlantic Ocean, swimmer frequently experience swell and chop similar to the English Channel.