Extreme 150 km Open Water Swim Camp
An Adventure on Europe’s Longest River – the Volga
Starting Point: Saratov
Finish: Stepana Rasina Cliff (Volga River)
4th – 8th August, 2026
An Extraordinary Swimming Adventure
Immerse yourself in a unique long-distance swim along Europe’s mightiest river – the Volga. The starting point is Saratov, a vibrant metropolis in the European part of Russia. Picturesquely located on the edge of the Volga Upland, the city stretches down to the banks of the river, which here forms the Volgograd Reservoir. The city center lies close to the river and impresses with a charming old town full of historic architectural ensembles from various eras. A highlight: the former German Street, now Ulitsa Nemetskaya, better known as Kirov Prospect.
Saratov naturally connects Europe and Asia – geographically, culturally, and historically. The city is easily accessible by car, train, or plane thanks to excellent transport links.
SWIM CAMP – 150 km in 5 Days
Take on the challenge: 150 kilometers in 5 days – either solo or as a 2- or 3-person relay team! This adventure takes you up to 42 km per day through open water, with overnight stays in a tent camp directly on the riverbank.
Each day ends with an unforgettable view of the Volga, a shared dinner around the campfire, and inspiring conversations with fellow swimmers. Our experienced team is by your side throughout the journey.
Stage Plan
Day 1: Grodskoy Plyazh → Podgornoye (22.5 km)
Day 2: Podgornoye → Usmore (19 km)
Day 3: Usmore → Chkalovskoye (35 km)
Day 4: Chkalovskoye → Rovnoye (32 km)
Day 5: Rovnoye → Stepana Rasina (42 km)
Total Distance: 150 km
Process & Support
- Each solo or relay team will be accompanied by an experienced motorboat captain.
- Swimmer changes for the relay are only permitted in the water.
- The active swimmer must stay in the water for at least one hour (breaks are permitted) before changing.
- Resting swimmers remain on the support boat.
- It is possible to accompany the team of swimmers (including those swimming a relay). This option can be booked additionally (accommodation in a tent and meals).
- This extreme-distance challenge is aimed at endurance-trained open water athletes who consciously forgo technical aids and devote themselves to the original form of open water swimming.
Included in the Price
- Personal motorboat escort for the entire route
- Return transport from the destination (Stepana Rasina Cliff) to Saratov
- Breakfast, dinner, and snacks (e.g., energy gels, bars, isotonic drinks) provided as part of the event.
- Tent accommodations are provided, as is a tent sauna. Meals are freshly prepared daily around a campfire. Each participant must bring their own sleeping mat and sleeping bag.
- The starter kit, including a swim cap, a T-shirt, and a towel, will also be handed out during this time.
Important Information
- Liability: The organizer assumes no liability for illness, accidents, theft, or weather-related cancellations – for participants or accompanying persons.
- Weather-Related Changes: In case of storms, thunderstorms, or heavy rain, the event may be altered or canceled on short notice. In such cases, registration fees will not be refunded.
- Participation Requirements:
- Medical certificate confirming swimming fitness
- Use of a swim buoy is mandatory
- Briefing will take place one day before the start at Cafe Kofe and Shokolad, Ulitsa Moskovskaya 9, Saratov, Saratov Oblast, Russia, 410600, 5 pm. All necessary information for the event will be provided during the briefing.
Registration: Please complete the attached form in full and return it to the organizer.
Dive into an incomparable adventure and discover the allure of extreme swimming in a new dimension – on the majestic Volga River.
