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Highlighting urban waterways and global water awareness
Join us for a swim around Roosevelt Island, starting in sight of the iconic Queens Pepsi sign, passing beneath the Queensboro and Roosevelt Island bridges, and completing your loop in the Midtown Manhattan United Nations corridor.
Blending urban adventure with the energy of the East River, the swim showcases a unique side of NYC — where city, water, and global culture meet. It’s an unforgettable open water experience celebrating urban waterways, swimmable cities, and the spirit of New York.
You will have your own kayak escort as you take on this challenging route – and an in water photo opp with stunning views of Manhattan, Queens, and the island that connects them at completion of this epic adventure.
July 25, 2026
6:50 AM EST
Roosevelt Island
.6 Miles / 1 Kilometers
$650
Below are answers to a few key questions about the swim. If you have a question, please feel free to reach out to us. We’d love to hear from you!
We are a grassroots nonprofit organization that offers a portal into adventure, friendship, hands-on learning, exploration, new perspectives, advocacy and a whole lot of fun.
We offer free non-competitive rowing and learning opportunities about the East River to people of all ages who do not need to be athletic nor have previous rowing experience. Whether you’re a first-timer and want to try your hand at a new endeavor, interested in volunteering or seeking to re-experience the waters around New York City, we wholeheartedly welcome you to join us!
Join us in supporting URBANSWIMmers!
Not ready to take the leap into open water swimming just yet? Come see what it’s all about by supporting Swimmers in the water! We invite you to join us as Kayak Support on event day. Join the party and be part of the movement to make URBANSWIMming possible!
We are proud to partner with organizations that share our mission to provide safe access to urban waterways for everyone.
Access Facilitator
Working with us in providing a centrally accessible vessel boarding location.
Safety Support
An important part of all on water safety in NYC, NYPD Harbor Patrol is a key contributor to safe open water swimming in the area.
Permitting
Providing oversight and coordination of all Harbor based activities, including open water swimming.
