Embark on an unforgettable open-water swimming adventure in the breathtaking lagoons and reefs of French Polynesia. This seven-day journey takes you from the black-sand beaches of Tahiti to the turquoise waters of Moorea, offering a perfect balance of exhilarating swims, cultural experiences, and serene island exploration. Each day presents new aquatic challenges, from outer reef swims and encounters with marine life to a magical bioluminescent night swim. Whether gliding through crystal-clear waters alongside rays and reef sharks or witnessing the majesty of humpback whales during an ocean safari, this experience is designed to connect you with the ocean in the most immersive way possible.
Beyond the swims, you’ll discover the vibrant culture and flavors of Polynesia through traditional dance performances, a hands-on cooking class, and moments of mindful relaxation on pristine beaches. With stays at Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts and Cook’s Bay Hotel & Suites, you’ll enjoy comfort and stunning scenery throughout the trip. Whether you’re an experienced open-water swimmer or an adventurous traveler looking for a unique way to explore the South Pacific, this journey promises unforgettable memories in one of the world’s most spectacular marine environments.
Andy Donaldson – Marathon swimming world-record holder and Oceans Seven finisher, will share his expertise in open water swimming technique and mental preparation.
Brenton Ford – Effortless Swimming’s Head Coach, will provide underwater filming and stroke analysis to help improve your technique.
7 days/ 6 nights
Tahiti and Moorea
August 30 – Sept 5th, 2026
$12,000 pp AUD (single)
$10,900 pp AUD (twin or couple)
Limited to 12 swimmers
If booking twin, please complete a separate booking for each person.
Andy Donaldson – Marathon swimming world-record holder, Oceans Seven
Brenton Ford – Effortless Swimming head coach
Welcome to Tahiti! Your adventure begins the moment you arrive at Fa’a’ā International Airport. Settle into the rhythm of island life as you transfer to your hotel in Papeete, where warm hospitality and stunning ocean views set the stage for an unforgettable week. Today is about acclimating, immersing yourself in Tahitian culture, and taking your first dip in the crystal-clear waters that will define this journey.
Morning Activities
After checking in and refreshing at the hotel, gather for a welcome lunch at the hotel restaurant. This is a moment to relax, fuel, connect, and prepare for the exciting days ahead.
Afternoon Activities
In the afternoon, head to a nearby coral reef for your first open water swim. This gentle 3km swim allows you to experience the warm, pristine waters and encounter vibrant marine life up close. Glide over coral gardens teeming with colorful fish as you get a feel for the ocean conditions. We’ll also do our first technique filming session at the end of the swim.
After the swim, return to the hotel for a short orientation session followed by your analysis with head coach Brenton Ford.
The evening is yours to unwind—explore the Papeete waterfront, take in the sunset, or simply relax and soak in the island ambiance
Today, we dive deeper into Tahiti’s breathtaking waters and rich cultural traditions. From serene stretching sessions on the beach to unforgettable encounters with marine life in the island’s crystal-clear lagoons. End the evening with a vibrant Ori Tahiti dance performance and a feast of local flavors.
AM: Beach Stretching and 6km Lagoon swim
Greet the day with a guided stretching session with your coaches on the beach, easing into the morning with movements designed to prepare your body for the swims ahead. After breakfast, we set off for a 6km swim through Papeete’s lagoons. Andy Donaldson will teach you the essentials of open water pack swimming. After the swim we will have time for a snorkel.
PM: Afternoon Swim and Snorkel
In the afternoon we will swim 2-3km on the other side of the island. After the swim as the sun sets, immerse yourself in the energy and storytelling of an Ori Tahiti dance performance, a mesmerizing display of Polynesian culture and rhythm. The evening concludes with a feast at a nearby restaurant, where we’ll indulge in local delicacies.
Today, we journey to the breathtaking island of Moorea, where dramatic volcanic peaks and turquoise lagoons create the perfect setting for the next stage of our adventure. With five nights at the stunning Cook’s Bay Hotel and Suites, we’ll have plenty of time to explore the island’s world-class waters and immerse ourselves in its natural beauty.
AM: Pre Breakfast Swim and Ferry Ride to Moorea
We start the day with a final pre-breakfast swim (3km) at our hotel beach before taking a scenic ferry ride from Tahiti to Moorea. Upon arrival, we check into our hotel, nestled along the shores of Cook’s Bay. After settling in, we head straight for the water, enjoying a refreshing swim from the hotel’s beach, where the vibrant inner reef offers a first glimpse of the island’s rich marine life.
PM Afternoon Swim
In the afternoon, we embark on our first swim on Moorea island (5km). Receive feedback from the coaches on your technique and openw ater skills.
As the day winds down, we gather for a sunset dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, savoring freshly caught local seafood while taking in the stunning views of the bay.
Today is all about immersing ourselves in the magic of Moorea’s waters, from beautiful morning swims to thrilling wildlife encounters. We’ll have time to explore the island at our own pace before coming together for unforgettable moments with rays, reef sharks, and bioluminescent waters that glow beneath the night sky.
AM: Lagoon Swim (7km)
We begin the day with another morning stretching routine followed by a 6km lagoon swim, easing into the warm, clear waters right from the hotel’s beach. The coaches will be sharing racing and open water tactics that help you in your swim journey.
Afterward, the morning is ours to explore—whether strolling through Moorea’s lush landscapes, visiting local markets, or enjoying additional snorkeling in the surrounding waters.
PM: Rainforest Hike and Bioluminescent Swim
In the afternoon, we lace up our hiking shoes for a scenic trek through Moorea’s lush rainforest, winding past towering palms and fragrant vanilla vines. Reaching a breathtaking lookout, we take in panoramic views of the island’s dramatic peaks and shimmering lagoons before descending for a well-earned swim. Our swim will be close to sunset so we can enjoy Tahiti’s famously colourful skies. As night falls, we experience one of the trip’s most magical moments—a bioluminescent swim in a protected lagoon. Every movement ignites a glow in the water, creating an otherworldly spectacle. We end the day with a serene dinner under the stars back at the hotel.
Today is all about exploring Moorea’s incredible marine life and immersing ourselves in Polynesian culture. From a relaxed morning swim to an exciting ocean safari in search of the region’s “Big Five,” we’ll cap off the day with a hands-on cooking class, celebrating the flavors of the islands.
AM: Ocean Safari – Swimming with the Big Five
We start the day with a shorter 3km morning swim, enjoying the calm waters and keeping an eye out for marine wildlife. After breakfast, we set off on a thrilling ocean safari, testing our luck at swimming with Tahiti’s “Big Five”—humpback whales (seasonal), playful dolphins, graceful sea turtles, sleek reef sharks, and majestic rays. With expert guides leading the way, we’ll have the chance to observe and be in the water with these incredible creatures in their natural habitat, making for an unforgettable experience.
PM: Swimming and Polynesian Cooking Class
After lunch, and a post-lunch 3km swim we gather for a Polynesian cooking class. Using fresh, local ingredients, we’ll learn to prepare traditional dishes, from poisson cru to coconut-infused delights. As the sun sets, we sit down to savor our creations, enjoying a delicious meal that captures the essence of the islands.
As our adventure nears its end, we make the most of our final full day in Moorea. From an unforgettable world-first 10km outer-reef swim to a peaceful beachfront stretching and meditation session, today is about reflection, connection, and celebration. We’ll close the journey with a special farewell dinner, embracing the spirit of Tahiti one last time.
AM: 10km Reef Swim
We begin the day with a unique 10km reef swim, venturing beyond the lagoon to explore new underwater landscapes. Swimming from the deeper waters of the outer reef toward the calm, sheltered inner reef, we’ll witness a stunning contrast in marine ecosystems—spotting larger ocean life before transitioning into the vibrant world of coral gardens and reef fish.
PM: Wind-down Swim (2km)
After an easier 2km wind-down afternoon swim, we move to the beachfront stretching session. With the sound of gentle waves in the background, this mindful practice allows us to relax, reflect, and soak in the incredible experiences of the past week. As night falls, we come together for a farewell dinner featuring a spread of traditional Tahitian dishes—a joyful and fitting send-off to an unforgettable adventure.
As our journey comes to an end, we take a final moment to connect with the tranquil waters of Moorea before bidding farewell to this island paradise. With unforgettable memories and new friendships, we depart feeling inspired by the beauty and adventure of French Polynesia.
Morning Activities and Departure
We begin the day with one last swim in the lagoon, savoring the serenity and crystal-clear waters that have defined our time here. After breakfast, we check out from the hotel and transfer back to Fa’a’ā International Airport via ferry. As we leave Moorea behind, we carry with us the experiences, challenges, and camaraderie that made this Cross Country Swimming adventure truly unforgettable.
Our first activity will be after lunch on day one, so aim to arrive before 2pm.
Faaʼa International Airport, also known as Tahiti International Airport (IATA: PPT, ICAO: NTAA). From the airport your transfer will take you to the hotel 20 minutes away.
We have a wide range of speeds and swimming abilities attend our swim camps.
For this long distance camp we have a minimum speed requirement of 2:10/100m for 2km.
If you’ve never attended a camp like this before don’t worry, neither have most people!
Most days we do a longer swim up to 7km in the morning followed by a lighter 2-3km swim in the afternoon. In these swims we re-group regularly and the coaches will be giving feedback and advice. You’ll be able to wear fins/flippers during the open water swims if you’d like and our support boat is with us at all times.
– There’s a $2500 AUD deposit to secure your spot on the camp which is refundable up to 14 days after booking.
– Full payment is required 120 days before the camp begins
– For cancellations 120 days or more before the camp begins, you can roll your deposit over to another camp within 12 months
– No refund if cancellation occurs within 120 days of the camp start date
Nestled on a pristine white sand beach facing the island of Tahiti, Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort is an idyllic retreat for open water swimmers and ocean lovers. With crystal-clear lagoon access steps from the shore and calm waters ideal for long training swims, the resort offers a prime location to explore Moorea’s vibrant coral reefs and tropical marine life. Guests can unwind in luxury bungalows set over the water or along the beach, dine on French-Polynesian cuisine, and enjoy world-class sunsets after a day in the sea. The blend of refined elegance and natural beauty makes Sofitel a standout base for aquatic adventures.
Set on the black sand shores of Lafayette Beach, Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts offers a peaceful and scenic escape just minutes from downtown Papeete. Overlooking Matavai Bay, where dolphins and whales are often seen offshore, the resort provides direct ocean access ideal for strong open water swimmers looking to train along Tahiti’s dramatic volcanic coastline. The infinity pool, lush tropical gardens, and spacious rooms with private balconies create a tranquil retreat after time in the water. With Polynesian hospitality, oceanfront dining, and easy access to cultural landmarks, Le Tahiti blends natural beauty with authentic island comfort.
Secure your spot by clicking the book now link on this page. Enter your details and credit card information to pay our deposit. Final payments are due 120 days before the camp start date. We will email you with details on how to pay this (via bank transfer or credit card (transaction fees apply)).
If this is your first camp with us we understand it can feel like a big step! That’s why were available to chat and answer any questions you have. Call us in Australia on 1300755088 or email us here.
Call us in Australia on 1300755088 or contact us here.
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Brenton and Mitch were great to work with at the clinic, Good to get video analysis to work on straight away, practice some new drills and go home knowing what you need to work on.
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