GEORGE NEWS - Victoria Bay is set to take centre stage on 18 July as brave swimmers once again prepare to dive into the icy Atlantic for one of the most anticipated stops in the annual Ysbeer/Polar Bear Winter Swim series.
Known for its sheltered cove and powerful winter swell, this iconic beach will see locals and visitors gather at 12:00 for a midday plunge that forms part of a nationwide open-water challenge stretching across three provinces.
From seasoned cold-water swimmers to first-time dippers, participants will be tested against the winter ocean for charity fundraising.
The Victoria Bay swim follows earlier inland events, beginning at the Aldam swim at the Willem Pretorius Nature Reserve near Ventersburg on 27 June before moving to Doringbos in Bloemfontein on 4 July as part of the Agri Drags event.
The third stop takes place at the Rogge Cloof Nature Reserve in Sutherland on 11 July. From there, the series reaches the coast at Victoria Bay, followed immediately by Santos Beach in Mossel Bay on 19 July, before concluding with the inaugural Great Brak swim on 25 July.
The organisers have confirmed that all swims take place at 12:00 as part of larger events or standalone gatherings, and selected venues will also hosting night swims from 20:00 for those seeking an even colder challenge.
Funds raised during the 2026 series will go towards Search and Rescue South Africa (Sarza), as well as Johenco, the Sutherland old age home.
Enquiries: Contact organiser Felix Burri on 082 851 4584.
Local organisers emphasise that safety remains a priority, with structured swim times, marshals and support teams at each venue.
‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’
