Hellespont and Dardanelles Swim, Turkey

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TRIP OVERVIEW

Trip Dates

2023

28 Aug - 31 Aug	Available
28 Aug - 31 Aug	5 Spaces

2024

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Tour Highlights

Compete in the WORLD'S OLDEST SWIM in the annual 'Victory Day' Hellespont swimming race in Canakkale, Turkey
Enjoy a truly unique experience as one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes is closed for the race
Follow in the historical wake of Leander and Lord Byron who turned these waters into the icon that they are
Meet and swap stories with fellow open water swimmers from all over the world
Relax and soak in the festivities of the SwimTrek post-race dinner after completing your swim

Hellespont and Dardanelles: THE WORLD’S OLDEST SWIM. It’s been said that you can’t call yourself a true open water swimmer until you’ve completed this historic cross-continental swim from Europe to Asia in Turkey. From the challenge of the swim itself to the region’s incredible history, this event is a must-do for open water swimmers from around the globe.

No other open water challenge in the world combines as much history, prestige, romance and bragging rights into a single swim as the legendary crossing of the Dardanelles strait, as one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world is closed for the annual ‘Victory Day’ race.

If you want to extend your time in Turkey, join us on the Hellespont Week Tour from 26 Aug - 01 September.

The Legendary Swim

The Hellespont is celebrated in the ancient Greek myth as the strait that Leander swam across to reach his lover Hero. It was officially swum for the first time by the famous poet, Lord Byron, in 1810 and ever since it has been considered the absolute epitome of open water swimming and can often be found at the top of any avid open water swimmer’s international wish list. As well as its own ancient history, the crossing also holds a special place in SwimTrek’s history as the swim which prompted our fearless founder, Simon Murie, to set up a pioneering open water swimming company in 2003.

Who is this trip for?

The Hellespont and Dardanelles crossing is a significant open water swim of 4½ km between Europe and Asia. Conditions during the event may be challenging and swimmers should have a good understanding of open water swimming. They should be capable of swimming 4½ km in the open water and be comfortable swimming in choppy waters and currents prior to the start of the trip.

Entries for this iconic event are strictly limited and SwimTrek is the sole provider of all race places for non-Turkish residents. Be quick to secure your place on this unforgettable swimming event!

Please note that the Race Organisers require every entrant to complete a Pre-Race Medical and to submit this at registration (refer to our Health Information section for further information)

Book Early and Save

Book before February 28th, 2023 and save £75 | €85 | $90 per swimmer - Simply pay your deposit and when the balance is due we will automatically apply your saving based on your booking date and the number of swimmers (non-swimmers do not receive this saving).

Please note that this offer is exclusive to the 'Hellespont and Dardanelles Swim' package and the savings cannot be applied to other bookings or in conjunction with any other offer.

Groups save up to 10%

If you have a group of swim club members, friends or colleagues you can save up to 10%.

For groups of 5 swimmers or more, we can help tailor your Hellespont experience. We can organise accommodation and tours specifically for your group. In addition, we can take away the organisational burden as well as giving you a saving!

To get this tailored service, please email Ben or Lucia using the email groups@swimtrek.com and they will get back to you.

What's included?

Entry into the annual Hellespont Swim Race
Three nights accommodation
Shared return transfers between Istanbul Airport and Canakkale
All breakfasts
Welcome drink at the acclimatisation swim & briefing
Pre-race acclimatisation swim on Day 2
Pre-race boat tour on Day 2
Post-race celebration and dinner on Day 3
ABTOT Financial Protection

What's not included?

Air travel to and from the start of the tour
Lunch and evening meals (except the post-race meal)
Optional guided tours

What's included for Supporters?

Three nights accommodation
Shared return transfers between Istanbul Airport and Canakkale
Welcome drink at the acclimatisation swim & briefing
All breakfasts
Post-race celebration and dinner on Day 3
ABTOT Financial Protection

Related Trips

Daily Itineraries

Trip Schedule

Day 1

Day 2

09:45 Acclimatisation Swim & Welcome Meeting (Compulsory)

On the morning of Day 2, there will be a welcome briefing which is an important event as we ensure that everyone has all the paperwork and medical forms completed ready for registration. There is also an opportunity to take part in an acclimatisation swim on a private beach, a short walk out of Canakkale’s bustling centre. This is a great chance for you to get used to the swimming conditions.

12:00 Boat Tour and Safety Briefing (Compulsory)

It is important that you join us on the boat tour & safety briefing as it is the opportunity to travel the swim route, see the swim start point and hear suggested strategies for your crossing.

14:30 Race Registration (Compulsory)

At the race registration, you will be given your swim hats and timing chips in preparation for the next morning’s swim. Please note that registration is compulsory in order to take part in the event.

Day 3 - Race Day

08:30 HELLESPONT RACE

For further information about the Hellespont and Dardanelles Swim Race, please click the Trip Information tab above and scroll to our section titled ‘Race Information’.

12:00 Awards ceremony

The official race awards ceremony will take place near the race finish sometime after the race finishes.

18:45 Post-Race Dinner

This evening SwimTrek host a post-race celebratory dinner for all guests, including non-swimmers. This is a fantastic opportunity to kick back and relax after completing an epic open water swim and to chat with your fellow swimmers about your Hellespont experience.

Day 4

Map

click to expand

Location Summary

Hellespont/Dardanelles/Strait of Çanakkale

This historic body of water is referred to as the Hellespont in Greek, historically in Turkish it was named the Dardanelles and in modern day Turkey it is known as the Strait of Çanakkale. It has been a natural barrier for invading armies for millenia, used by both King Xeres I of Persia in 480BC and Alexander the Great.

In ancient mythology, Hero, a priestess of Aphrodite, lived on the European side of the Hellespont in a high tower by the sea. Leander, a young man from the Asian side, swam every night, guided by the lamp which his mistress lit at the top of the tower, in order to spend the night with his beloved Hero. It was one stormy night when Hero’s lamped burned out that Leander lost his way and drowned in the strait.

The poet Lord Byron, inspired by Leander's nightly conjugal powers, swam the Hellespont, along with Lieutenant Ekenhead, on their second attempt in 1810. They became the first known persons since Leander to achieve this feat.

Gallipoli

Bordering the Hellespont to the north, the Gallipoli Peninsula is a mix of pine forests and farmers' fields interspersed with monuments, cemeteries and battlefields commemorating the Gallipoli campaign, an attempt to remove the Ottoman Empire from the First World War. From the beaches where the allies first landed (Anzac Cove, V Beach), to the high ridges that they endeavoured to take (Lone Pine, Chunuk Bair), the hostility of the terrain makes you wonder why they ever tried at all.

Troy

With a lineage of over 4,000 years, Troy is often quoted as the centre of ancient civilization. For many years a fabled city, it was only rediscovered in the 19th Century near the modern city of Canakkale and is a must visit in order to appreciate the importance of the strait and Troy’s position on it.

Trip Grading

Swimming Conditions

The Hellespont is a major strait dividing Europe and Asia. As a natural body of open water, it is affected by local weather conditions, which can vary considerably from one day to the next. In order to complete the swim in the most favourable conditions, there are two different options for when the race may take place. The preferred option is to conduct the race on 30 August however, in the unlikely event that swimming conditions are so unfavourable that the race time is changed, the Race Organisers will try to reschedule to 31 August Please keep this in mind when booking your return travel from Turkey.

On 28 August, the event committee will meet and will make a decision about when the race will take place. If neither of the above options are suitable, we will endeavour to organise an alternative coastal swim, and you will be offered a reduced entry for the Hellespont event the following year.

Swimming in the sea is a fantastic experience, however you should be aware that certain marine life such as sea lice, jellyfish, sea urchins and coral could be present during the swims. In all cases we will work on reducing your contact with these creatures, however if you suffer from anaphylaxis, please consult the office prior to booking.

Race Distance

The total distance of the Hellespont swim is approximately 4½km, however, the swim is current-assisted, which makes it equivalent to swimming approximately 3-3½ km.

Race Time Limit

There is a time limit of two hours to complete the race. For safety reasons, any swimmers who do not complete the race before this time will be removed from the water and escorted back to land by the Turkish Coast Guard.

Temperatures

Month	Water Temperature*	Air Temperature*
August	23-25°C / 73-77°F	29-32°C / 84-90°F

*Please note that these temperatures are indicative and should be used as a guide only.

Weather Caveat

For safety reasons, the event organisers rely on decent weather conditions in order to carry out the swim. In the event of bad weather and the swim being cancelled, there are no additional alternative times or days available after August 31st.

Trip Information

Race Organisers

Please note that while SwimTrek organise the tour part of this package, the Canakkale Rotary Club are the organisers of the swim and are fully responsible for race safety, logistics and contingency planning.

Group Size and Boat Support

The Hellespont and Dardanelles crossing is a mass start event. Boat support on this trip includes a flotilla of small boats arranged by the event organiser, some of which SwimTrek guides will be aboard. Please note that this boat support is subject to change without notice and cannot be guaranteed.

Extra Activities

Additional tours, such as trips to Troy and Gallipoli, can be organised through our partners in Canakkale, Wilusa Travel, at an additional cost. For bookings or further information about these tours, as well as booking additional nights accommodation before or after your SwimTrek trip, please contact our local partners on info@swiminturkey.com

Supporters Package

There are a limited number of supporter’s packages available which include shared accommodation with a race participant, as well as entry into all non-swimming events. We cannot guarantee that supporters will be able to travel to the start of the race on the European side, however, in previous years this has usually been possible. In general, it is more advisable for spectators to stay on the Asian side and view the race from the finish line.

Race Equipment

Swimmers are allowed to wear wetsuits during the crossing, however, please note that using a wetsuit will mean that you are ineligible for any of the race awards. Participants are not permitted to wear smart watches or smart bands during the race. Compulsory swim hats will be given out on the day of the race by the event organisers.

Equipment Checklist

In addition to your daily non-swimming clothes, we also recommend that you bring the following items:

Item	Item
Swimming Costume (x2)	Waterproof Sun Cream
Swimming Goggles* (x2)	Towel
Sunhat and Sunglasses	Small Daypack

*Try to bring one clear lens and one tinted lens for different light conditions.

For more information please visit: www.swimtrek.com/packing-list

Getting There

There are several options for travelling to Canakkale at the start of your trip. The easiest option is to fly into Istanbul Airport and then book a transfer with our partners in Turkey which will take you directly to your accommodation in Canakkale. You can also fly in to Sabiha Gokcen Airport and take transport to Istanbul Airport to join the transfer.

As SwimTrekkers come from all over the world, and join our swimming holidays in numerous destinations, we don't currently offer flights as part of our SwimTrek packages. We do however want to do as much as we can to ensure that our guests get the best deals when travelling to one of our trips so check out SwimTrek's tips to help you get the best deals for your flights page on the website.

Shared Transfer from Istanbul Airport to Canakkale | 28 August

A shared transfer service from Istanbul City Centre and Airport to our accommodation in Cannakale is offered for all SwimTrek guests on Day 1 of your trip. There are two departure time options for your transfer.

If you are getting the transfer from the airport, please go directly to Gate 13 to meet your WILUSA transfer ready for the departure time you have chosen.

If you are getting the transfer from the City Centre, the exact collection location will be confirmed nearer the time.

To book your place on this shared transfer at the beginning of your trip, please contact our local partners on info@swiminturkey.com

Departure Location	Departure Time
Istanbul City Centre	1200
Istanbul Airport.	1400
Istanbul City Centre	1800
Istanbul Airport.	2000

Shared Return Transfer from Canakkale to Istanbul | 31 August and 1 September

A shared return transfer from your Cannakkale Hotel to Istanbul Airport is offered for all SwimTrek guests on either 31 Aug or 1 September. To book your place on this shared transfer at the beginning of your trip, please contact our local partners on info@swiminturkey.com

Departure Location	Departure Time
Kolin and Double Tree	31 Aug 0830
Truva / Akol / Limani / Canak	31 Aug 0900
Kolin and Double Tree	1 Sep 0830
Truva / Akol / Limani / Canak	1 Sep 0900

Private Transfer from Istanbul to Canakkale

If your flights do not coincide with the shared transfer service and you would like to arrange a private transfer this can be arranged through various online providers. You can also book directly with our partners in Turkey, Wilusa Travel. To book your private transfer, please contact our local partners on info@swiminturkey.com

Flights between Istanbul to Canakkale

Turkish Airlines operates a non-stop direct flights between Istanbul (IST) and Canakkale (CKZ) with a journey time of just over an hour. However, please note that other flights between Istanbul and Cannakkle usually include a stopover in Ankara with a total journey time of 3-6 hours.

Public Transport from Istanbul to Canakkale

There are various public bus services which run from Istanbul to Canakkale with a journey time of approximately six hours. For bookings, timetables, and further information, please visit Bus Ticket Line.

Accommodation

Your SwimTrek package includes three nights’ accommodation at one of the following Canakkale hotels:

Hotel Name	Star Rating	Location
Limani Hotel	3-Star	City Centre
Canak Hotel	3-Star	City Centre
Akol Hotel	4-Star	City Centre
Truva Hotel	4-Star	City Centre
Kolin Hotel	5-Star	5km from City Centre
Double Tree	4-Star	5km from City Centre

Accommodation is based on twin share rooms with en suite facilities, on a bed and breakfast basis. There are a limited number of rooms available for single occupancy which, subject to availability, can be reserved during the booking process.

All of SwimTrek’s 3-star and 4-star hotels are located within 10 minutes’ walk of each other in the city centre. If you choose to stay at the 5-star Kolin Hotel, transfers are available to and from the following events: Acclimatisation Swim & Welcome Meeting, Boat Tour, Race Registration, Race Start, Post-Race Dinner. If you prefer to return to the hotel outside of the normal transfer timetable, you can catch a local taxi for approximately €8.

Pre/Post Trip Accommodation and Trip Extension Options

If you require additional nights' accommodation before or after your SwimTrek trip, this can be arranged via our local partners on info@swiminturkey.com

Food and Drink

All breakfasts are included as part of your trip price, as well as the post-race celebration dinner on Sunday 30 August. All other meals are at your own expense, which gives you a fantastic opportunity to explore and experience the local cafes and restaurants of your choice over the course of your trip.

Travel Advice

For more information on any of the following sections please visit the Travel Advice page of our website

Money, Extra Expenses and Tipping

You should bring extra money with you to cover such items as entertainment, meals and any additional tours that you book during your time in Turkey. The local currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY) and ATMs are plentiful in Canakkale.

Extra expenses not covered within your package price include a swim medical if required as part of the race entry and any City tours and airport transfers you require.

Passports and Visas

Turkey is not part of the European Union. Non-residents of Turkey require a full passport to enter the country, which should be valid for six months beyond the expected length of stay.

Please note: As of 2nd March 2020, UK and EU Citizens no longer require a visa to enter Turkey and stay for a period of up to 90 days. Citizens of other countries including the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand require a visa to enter Turkey. Most foreign nationals entering Turkey must purchase a visa before entering the country. It is important that you purchase your visa through the official website, www.evisa.gov.tr and avoid purchasing through third-party providers, as these can be considerably more expensive.

Please note that visa regulations are subject to change and we advise that you check your own visa requirements prior to travel. For a full list of visa requirements, please visit Turkish Ministry for Foreign Affairs

Travel Insurance

We consider comprehensive travel insurance to be essential, and we strongly recommend that you purchase insurance which includes, but is not limited to, cover for illness, accident, emergency repatriation, ambulance, air ambulance, helicopter rescue services, cancellation, lost luggage and delays. Your travel insurance should also cover you for open water swimming and any other activity listed in your trip itinerary (including races and competitions, where applicable). Please read your policy details carefully and remember to take them with you on your trip for your own reference. For further information about travel insurance, please visit www.swimtrek.com/travel-insurance.

Health Information and Recommended Vaccinations

Pre-Race Medical (Compulsory)

The race organisers require a signed medical form from a doctor/medical practitioner prior to the race. This form will be forwarded to all participants after they have completed their booking. It is also available via this link Hellespont Medical Form.

For comprehensive health information for people travelling to Turkey, including all recommended and required vaccinations, please visit Travel Health Pro. Please note that this information is subject to change and you should re-check this site regularly prior to your trip.

Internet Access, Electricity and Travel Plugs

Wireless internet access is available in most our hotel. Many bars and restaurants around town also offer access, sometimes at additional charge.

For a useful source of information on the different electrical outlets, electrical plugs, and electric sockets, please visit worldstandards.eu/.

Swimmers head onto a boat for the start of the race

Swimmers pour into the Hellespont

Swimmers at the Hellespont start

Swimmers crawl out into the Hellespont

Aerial drone view of Hellespont swimmers

The full SwimTrek support team, including our founder, Simon Murie

SwimTrek founder, Simon Murie, with the Hellespont race winners

Jack P - one of the fastest SwimTrekkers across the Hellespont

Wild Swimming Brothers at the Hellespont finish

Wild Swimming Brothers, Jack and Calum, join swimmers in the Hellespont

Close up swimmer in the famous Turkish strait

Swimmers at the finish ramp

Hellespont

SwimTrek guiding team Hellespont 2019

SwimTrek's Hellespont boat

Turkish Hellespont swimmers

Winner of the swim

Guide Ben looking out for swimmers safety

Medals for successful swimmers

Clear waters for the Hellespont

SwimTrekkers in Turkey

Cross-continental swimmer Turkey

swimming the course Hellespont & Dardanelles

Crossing the finish Hellespont

Celebrating finishing the Hellespont

Strong swimmers for Hellespont

Hellespont

Mid swim action

Leaving Europe in their wake

Trojan Horse

Hellespont

As a father and son (14 years old) swimming duo taking part in the Hellespont Swim I can only describe the experience as exceptional. A safe, community focused and quality experience that we will never forget.

Ryan W, Ireland - 2022
The Hellespont swim was such a magical swim and superbly organised and executed by SwimTrek

Samantha W, UK - 2022
After first wanting to do this swim ten years ago, it was great to finally do it - a true lifetime experience. Thanks.

Robert R, Australia - 2022
I felt privileged to be part of the SwimTrek group for the Hellespont swim in Turkey. We had excellent preparation, which made the swim a breeze, and the camaraderie and pre- and post-race events made it such a fun experience.

Lisa K,2022 - South Africa - 2022
Swimming the Hellespont was the hardest swim I've done, and being swept past the finish as I hadn't got my sighting right was one of the most bittersweet experiences I have had. Euphoric at having swum the distance, gutted at missing the red carpet. Winning isn't everything, its participating that is magic.

Charles M, UK - 2019
Hellespont Swim tour will become the new ANZAC pilgrimage swim for Aussie and Kiwi swimmers...an emotional yet still exciting event to have on your bucket list.

Suzette S, Australia - 2019
Epic, classical and Heroic in the wake of Leander and Lord Byron. A great swim for many abilities.

Peter W, UK - 2019
Being able to call yourself a cross continental swimmer, and knowing this was done in challenging waters with superb safety cover; what’s not to like!

Aedin C, Switzerland - 2019
The Hellespont & Dardanelles swim was an outstanding challenging yet fun event in an amazing & beautiful location stacked with history. I will certainly return to swim it again with SwimTrek.

Mark H, UK - 2019
Thank you to the SwimTrek team for helping me achieve a lifetime ambition - your team were so helpful and encouraging. An amazing event that was very well-organised. THANK YOU. I look forward to going with SwimTrek in the future for another adventure.

Jane W-S, UK - 2018
Exceeded expectations - truly memorable swim

Chris P. UK-2017
Where else can you do an intercontinental swim and have such fun doing it?

Matthew D. UK-2017
This exceeded all expectations. Met some fantastic people from all over the world and thought the swim was truly memorable

Heidi L. UK-2017
"Great moments are born from great opportunities".

Chuck. P, Jordan- 2017
The Hellespont was an iconic swim. Well organised and safely managed. It was fun and enjoyable from start to finish - great event, great new friends and gave a full sense of achievement. Superb !

Alan B. UK - 2016
The experience of a lifetime. You must swim it!

Paul S. UK - 2016
My first SwimTrek trip exceeded all expectations so it won't be my last.

Catherine D. Australia - 2016
Had a fantastic time, brilliant fun! Well organised, met some wonderful people and the sea was beautiful - like swimming in silk. One of the best days!

Kate F. UK - 2016
It was - again - a perfect mix of wonderful location, challenging swimming event and meeting interesting people from all over the world.

Andreas F. Germany - 2016
My favourite ever swim - Europe to Asia at the Hellespont. The most classic swim in the world. Great location, beautiful swim, well-organised trip by SwimTrek.

Ricky M. UK - 2015
I swam the Hellespont to celebrate my 60th birthday. It was the highlight of a month-long trip to Turkey. It surpassed my expectations and I would jump at the chance to do it again.

Graeme H. Australia - 2015
What an amazing experience both in mind, body and soul. The turks are an incredibly hospitable nation who take pride in everything they showed us and arranged for us. We were privilege to swim a historical route from Europe to Asia that will leave a lasting memory for me!

Kim F. South Africa - 2015
The swim of a lifetime!

Ralph C. USA - 2015
It was brilliant and the best birthday I've had in years!

Shila S. Switzerland - 2015
I'm so thrilled to have taken part in the swim and can proudly say I've swum from Europe to Asia. The SwimTrek suggested training programme really worked, with superb advice on hand. I am officially a swim addict now!

Lou A. UK - 2014
A very memorable swim which I would recommend to others.

John W. UK - 2014
An event not to be missed. One better than sailing over the Dardanelles is to swim through it. Having succeeded, the title of "Intercontinental Swimmer" sits easily!

Robert Marriott - 2013 Competitor
This has been one of my favourite swims to do. The water was beautiful and it was really great to make it it to the finish. I met some really interesting and inspiring people also, which made the trip even more memorable.

Clinton P - 2013