Event Overview
The 30th Annual St. Croix Coral Reef Swim attracts a diverse range of participants, from fitness swimmers to world-class open water athletes. The event features one-mile, two-mile, and five-mile races through the stunning turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs of St. Croix, culminating at The Buccaneer’s palm-lined beach with a steel band and refreshments.
The one-mile and two-mile races follow the shoreline of St. Croix’s east end, while the five-mile race begins at Buck Island, a living coral reef designated an underwater park by the U.S. National Park Service. Assisted (fins/snorkel) options are available for all distances.
Key Details & Schedule of Events (November 6-8, 2026)
Mandatory Race Check-in & Course Talk
- Friday, November 6th: 7:30-9:30 AM or 4-5:30 PM at The Buccaneer Lobby
- Saturday, November 7th: 8:30-11 AM at The Buccaneer Lobby
Prior to check-in, participants must review race rules, safety plans, and course walk-throughs. In-person course talks are highly encouraged for new participants.
Saturday, November 7th, 2026
- 8-9 AM: New to Open Water Swimming Chat with Alex Kostich at The Buccaneer's Open-Air Mermaid Restaurant.
- 1:30 PM or 3:30 PM: In-person course talks by Race Committee members at the Brass Parrott off the Buccaneer Lobby.
- 5-6 PM: Cocktail party at The Buccaneer Sugar Mill.
- 5:30-8:30 PM: Pre-Race Swim Dinner ($60 per person, reservations required).
Sunday, November 8th, 2026 (Race Day)
- 6 AM: Taxis begin departing from The Buccaneer Lobby/Mermaid Restaurant for race marking at Green Cay.
- 6:15 AM: Five Mile Race marking begins at Green Cay Marina.
- 7:30 AM: Five Mile Race Start from Buck Island.
- 8 AM: Two Mile swimmers Race Marking at the Mermaid Restaurant. Taxis depart for race start around 8:15 AM.
- 8:30 AM: One Mile swimmers Race Marking at the Mermaid Restaurant. Taxis depart for race start around 8:45 AM.
- 8:45 AM: Two Mile Race Start from Pull Point.
- 9:00 AM: One Mile Race Start from Shoys Beach.
- 9:15 AM: Swimmers in all three races begin finishing at Mermaid Beach.
- 10:30 AM: Barbeque lunch opens at the Mermaid Restaurant (coupon required).
- 12:45 PM: Race Celebration @ The Mermaid. Awards must be picked up by 1:30 PM.
For specific race rules, age/time limits, and escort requirements for minor swimmers, please refer to swimrace.com. Traveling participants should plan to arrive in St. Croix by 11 AM on Saturday, November 7th. Contact [email protected] for questions.
