Rottnest Swim 2026 could face delays or be cancelled as organisers closely monitor Saturday weather forecast

The iconic Rottnest Channel Swim taking place this weekend could be delayed, or even cancelled, ahead of unpredictable weather forecast this Saturday.

Rottnest Channel Swim Association (RCSA) organisers have released an update in the lead-up to the event saying they are “closely monitoring the weather forecast”.

Individual skippers of the boats used to support swimmers were also advised to consider the weather advice before they decide to set out early on Saturday morning.

“At this stage, it is too early to predict if the event will be delayed or cancelled,” the statement read.

“The RCSA will meet with a senior forecaster at the Bureau of Meteorology on Thursday and Friday for further updates, as well as with the University of Western Australia’s Coastal Oceanography Group for information on predicted currents.”

According to BoM, Saturday’s forecast is set for a sunny day with a max of 26 degrees. However, light winds are predicted to become south to southwesterly 25 to 35 km/h during the morning.

Poor weather conditions can make progress for swimmers very slow, exacerbating the risk of hypothermia. It can also result in safety crews being stretched to maximum capacity.

This was the case in 2024, when the swim was cancelled mid-way after weather conditions deteriorated, causing thousands of swimmers to immediately pull out of the race.

Several swimmers were rescued by Fremantle Marine Rescue and four were sent to hospital as a precaution.

RCSA said it meets with the Bureau of Meteorology throughout event week to ensure it has the most up-to-date information and can make decisions as per its risk management plan.

However, if in the event the swim is cancelled, RCSA confirmed rescheduling would not be possible due to extensive logistic costs and management of the shipping lane.

“The RCSA is aware participants in the South32 Rottnest Channel Swim have trained for significant amounts of time to prepare for the event, and many have travelled from interstate, overseas and regional WA,” the statement read.

“The RCSA wants to provide participants with every opportunity to undertake their crossing of the Rottnest Channel.”

A further update will be provided to all participants on Thursday.