Nevis to St Kitts Cross Channel Swim set for March 28 as event marks 25 years 

St Kitts and Nevis: The highly anticipated Nevis to St Kitts Cross Channel Swim is set to take place on March 28, 2026. This year the event will mark its 25^th anniversary and reaffirm itself as a signature open water swimming challenge in the Caribbean.

The iconic swim covers 2.5 miles or 4.1 kilometers across the Narrows the strait that separates the sister islands of Nevis and St Kitts and has drawn athletes of all abilities since its inception more than two decades ago. The event starts at Oualie Beach in Nevis and finishes at Cockleshell Bay on St Kitts while offering participants a unique Caribbean experience that blends sport natural beauty and island culture.

Officials say the event continues to grow in international participation and also plays a role in showcasing the islands as world class destinations for sports tourism.

Swimmers can compete in the official race or choose a more leisurely swim option making the event accessible to a wide range of participants. The tourism officials of St Kitts and Nevis noted that those planning to attend can combine the swim with time to explore the islands enjoy local cuisine and stay at nearby resorts and hotels before or after the challenge.

They further added that registration details and event information are available on the official Nevis to St Kitts Cross Channel Swim website with opportunities for both competitive and recreational entries.

Over the past 25 years the Nevis to St Kitts Cross Channel Swim has grown from a small regional challenge into one of the most anticipated open water swimming events in the Caribbean. Each year, the swim attracts between 400 and 600 participants including competitive swimmers, recreational athletes, charity teams and first-time open water swimmers from North America Europe the Caribbean and beyond.

Participants range from elite endurance swimmers to amateurs taking on the crossing as a personal milestone. Many swimmers also participate as part of relay teams allowing broader participation while maintaining the spirit of endurance and teamwork that defines the event. Safety remains a key focus with coordinated marine support, lifeguards, kayakers and medical teams deployed across the channel throughout the swim.

In addition to the main swim, the event weekend usually includes registration activities, welcome receptions and award ceremonies which help foster connections between athletes, visitors and the local community. Families and supporters often line the finish area at Cockleshell Bay creating a celebratory finish that has become one of the defining images of the event.