Rottnest Channel Swim Cancelled: Bad Weather Forces Disruption

Perth’s annual Rottnest Channel Swim has been cancelled less than 24 hours before the scheduled start, leaving 2,500 registered swimmers and countless support crews disappointed. The decision, announced late Friday afternoon via text message to participants, comes amid forecasts of dangerous conditions in the 19.7-kilometer stretch of ocean between Cottesloe Beach and Rottnest Island.

Authorities cited persistent strong southerly winds, a powerful surface current, and building swell as the primary factors in the cancellation. According to the Bureau of Meteorology, nautical winds of up to 30 knots (approximately 55 kilometers per hour) were predicted for Saturday morning, posing a significant risk to those attempting the crossing.

“These conditions are not expected to improve and present an unacceptable level of risk for swimmers, skippers and support crews,” organisers stated in an email to participants, as reported by the Sydney Morning Herald.

This marks the second time the Rottnest Channel Swim has been cancelled due to weather concerns. The event was previously called off in 2007 and again mid-race in 2024, when deteriorating conditions forced the rescue of several swimmers who required hospital assessment. Organiser Will Rollo explained to ABC Radio Perth that the decision to cancel, while difficult, was made with safety as the top priority. “This isn’t the call that we aim for to make, we don’t want people not be swimming to Rottnest, but we want people to be safe,” he said.

Rollo too noted that approximately 100 participants had already withdrawn from the event in the 48 hours leading up to the cancellation, anticipating the challenging conditions. He added that the organisation had learned from the 2024 mid-race cancellation and adhered to its risk management plan by delaying a final decision until as close to the event as possible.

The Rottnest Channel Swim Association confirmed that no refunds would be issued for registration fees, citing the substantial event costs and the terms and conditions agreed to by participants. However, all registered teams and duos for the 2026 swim will be offered guaranteed entry to the 2027 event. Solo swimmers were encouraged to consider an “Out of Event Crossing” on one of several dates in late February and March.

The cancellation also impacted logistical arrangements, including the planned passage of a British nuclear-powered submarine, HMS Anson, into HMAS Stirling naval base. The submarine was reportedly forced to remain offshore due to the swim’s scheduled route.

The Rottnest Channel Swim Association acknowledged the disappointment of swimmers and support crews in a statement, thanking them for their training and preparation. The association also expressed gratitude to the volunteers and safety personnel involved in the event.